Seafood lovers urged to have their say

West Australians are avid seafood consumers, and it’s no wonder when we have a world-class fishing industry at our fingertips. But have you ever sat down at a restaurant and thought there was something a bit fishy about the menu? Ease your mind, the tides are turning and bringing changes with it. The Federal Government is working across hospitality sectors to change and increase West Aussie’s awareness about where exactly their food is coming from, in a move that implements mandatory labelling of the country of origin on where your delicious seafood is sourced from. Knowing where your food comes from can be important as some consumers may be prepared to pay a bit extra for Aussie-made products. However, research has found a common misconception that the seafood served in a hospitality setting is Australian, when often it’s imported from foreign shores. Under the new plan, business will be required to show the country of origin of their seafood, whether it be Australian-made or imported, or both if required. And to make this effective, the Federal Department of Industry, Science and Resources is asking for feedback. Some restaurants and cafes currently display the country of origin for their customers, but there is no national standard or consistency for seafood products like there is for the food bought at supermarkets. Since 1 July 2018 it has been mandatory to have a labelling system stating the country of origin for food available for consumption, including in stores, markets, online, or even from vending machines. Any labelling claim that can mislead consumers is a breach of Australian Consumer Laws. If you see a country of origin claim that you think is misleading or does not comply with the law, then you are able to make a consumer complaint. To have your say on the new country of origin labelling for seafood in hospitality, fill out the survey at www.consult.industry.gov.au before the 15 March 2023. For more information about Australia’s current country of origin labelling rules for general products and food offered for retail sale, visit our website at www.consumerprotection.wa.gov.au. Steph Marsh, Senior Regional Officer for Great Southern, Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety