Kerrynne Liddle (SA, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Indigenous Australians) Share this | Hansard source

Although still open for business, some SA coastal communities remain captured by uncertainty in relation to the algal bloom. Fishers, seafood processors, tourism operators and small family businesses are right to be disappointed in both the Albanese and Malinauskas governments for their slow, reactive and disorganised response. There is new news now from scientists who have identified a rarely recorded algal species likely responsible for the toxin production driving this prolonged event. I can't stress this enough: stay informed.

The impacts are real and lasting, and Labor's response has fallen very, very short. One fisher holding more than eight tonnes of squid quota has not landed a single catch since April. Boats are tied up, and families are eating into savings. Tourism businesses have suffered booking cancellations, although those vouchers provide some relief. Researchers have requested $40 million over 10 years to monitor the Great Southern Reef and are still waiting for an answer.

Our seafood is safe, world-class and tested. You can still buy local seafood from commercial retailers. Every plate of our world-class oysters, King George whiting and southern calamari sold supports everyone in some way, even those who don't work. Our coastal towns are open for business. SA communities are resilient and deserve our attention, not just when these types of issues force it. Sure, the cities need to be heard, but people in the regions, in rural areas and in remote communities who drive economic performance—and feed us—need attention too.

This week in parliament, I've heard from stakeholders as diverse as credit unions, dentists and palliative care specialists who are frustrated by the lack of attention to those who live outside the capital cities. Having been born and raised in a regional area with ongoing regional interests, I will continue to pursue and raise issues in here that are relevant to you. The coalition will stand with you if you're in the regions and in the cities.