Albanese government rejected advice on Tasmanian salmon farming impact before passing pro-industry laws

FOI documents show ministers ignored recommendation for fresh inquiry that could have reduced or paused farming Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast The Albanese government rushed through legislation to ensure salmon farming could continue in Tasmania’s Macquarie Harbour last year shortly after receiving advice warning of “substantial new information” about the industry’s environmental impact. Documents released under freedom of information laws show the environment department advised the government in late 2024 that it should revoke a 2012 decision that allowed salmon farming to expand in the vast harbour on the state’s west coast.