Grafton Aquaculture Centre

Grafton Aquaculture Centre (GAC) is the Threatened Species Production unit, delivering conservation aquaculture and fisheries science for Northern NSW. The unit’s staff sit within Aquaculture Research, Fisheries, DPIRD. GAC is based at The Grafton Primary Industries Institute (GPII). The Institute is unique in NSW by providing operational and research functions for agriculture, biosecurity, fisheries and forestry from one location. More information about the Grafton Primary Industries site can be found here.

GAC hold, breed and on‑grow native fish to support recovery and restocking. Species currently managed include Eastern Freshwater Cod, Purple‑Spotted Gudgeon, Oxleyan Pygmy Perch and Olive Perchlet, with ongrowing of Australian Bass for recreational fishers restocking in northern NSW. Our hatchery, earthen ponds and recirculating systems support all life stages from broodstock, to release‑ready juveniles while maintaining secure assurance fish populations.

Scientists at the Grafton Aquaculture Centre lead programs that monitor fish communities across coastal rivers, evaluate environmental water outcomes in the Northern Basin, and improve recreational fisheries through angler surveys, stock assessments and habitat projects. We also provide rapid‑response capacity for drought and flood events to protect at‑risk populations.

We work closely with community groups, agencies and universities to deliver on‑ground outcomes and build resilience for native fish across the region.

More Information on Threatened species can be found here.