Joint media release with Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries Forestry Julie Collins.

This week, the 12-month transition period started for the introduction of mandatory labelling for seafood products in hospitality venues, before the new rules come into effect on 1 July 2026. 

Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science Tim Ayres said it gives businesses time to adjust, however they can start applying country-of-origin seafood labelling to menus now. 

The new information standard has been made under the Australian Consumer Law, aiming to help customers better understand where their seafood comes from. 

In November 2023, following extensive consultation with the public and industry, the federal, state and territory consumer affairs ministers agreed to the new labelling approach. 

Under the changes, hospitality businesses must label the country of origin for all seafood in their ready-to-eat dishes using the Australian-Imported-Mixed (AIM) model. 

• A (Australian) 
• I (imported) 
• M (of mixed origin containing both Australian and imported seafood) 

The AIM model is a simple and practical approach that strikes the right balance between informing consumers, while minimising costs to businesses. New labels, clearer choices.  

Hospitality businesses that must follow the rules include restaurants and cafes, all the way to food trucks and market stalls. 

You can find out more here and access business guidance materials here. More information to address any hospitality business questions will be released during the transition period. 

Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science Tim Ayres:  

“Australian seafood is world renowned for its high quality and sustainable practices, but more than 60% of seafood bought by Australians is imported.  

“These changes give Aussie seafood lovers the opportunity to make sure they’re buying local. 

"The Albanese Labor Government remains committed to supporting Australia’s local seafood industry and ensuring consumers have clear information about the origins of their seafood.

“I encourage businesses to use this 12-month transition period to adjust to the new measures and find what works best for them and their customers.” 

Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries Forestry Julie Collins: 

“Australia’s seafood industry provides significant value both as a job creator and economic driver in regional Australia.

“I’ve been a proud supporter of mandatory labelling for seafood products because I know it will help support Australia’s seafood industry. 

“The Albanese Labor Government will continue to back our local seafood industry and Australian consumers, who deserve and want to know where their seafood is coming from. 

“Australian fisheries are some of the best regulated in the world. When you choose to buy Australian seafood, you can be confident the product is sustainably sourced and that you are not supporting illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing practices.”