Protecting the Future of Victoria's Eastern Zone Abalone Fishery
EZAIA represents and supports the Eastern Zone abalone industry through advocacy, research, responsible fisheries management and collaboration across eastern Victoria.
Who We Are
Since 1999, the Eastern Zone Abalone Industry Association has provided an effective, credible, and professional voice for members of the Eastern Zone abalone industry. We preserve and maintain strong environmental stewardship of this vital resource.
The Eastern Zone abalone fishery is one of the world's last sustainable wild-catch abalone fisheries, with heritage dating back to the early 1960s. We represent 23 licensed operators in the Mallacoota region.
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Years representing the industry
Licensed operators
Years of regional fishing heritage
History & Heritage
The Eastern Zone abalone fishery was established in the early 1960s by pioneers drawn to the remote, rugged and pristine coastline of Mallacoota. By 1963, Mallacoota was regarded as the abalone capital of Victoria, contributing approximately $600,000 annually to the local economy.
Today, the fishery is regulated by the Victorian Fisheries Authority and operates under a robust, science-based management framework. Each year, a stock assessment workshop determines the Total Allowable Commercial Catch for the following season.
Key Milestones
- 1963Mallacoota becomes abalone capital of Victoria
- 1969Decompression chamber purchased for diver safety
- 1972Electricity introduced to Mallacoota
- 1999EZAIA established as industry voice
Our Region: Eastern Victoria
The Eastern Zone
The Eastern Zone covers the Victorian coast from Lakes Entrance to Mallacoota, spanning one of Australia's most pristine and productive marine regions for sustainable wild abalone fisheries.
Pristine Waters
Cold, nutrient-rich reef waters ideal for wild-caught abalone
Sustainable Management
Science-based quota system ensures long-term viability
Limited Entry
23 licensed operators maintaining premium quality
Black Lip Abalone
Haliotis rubra
An Australian species of large edible sea snail prized for its delicate, rich flavour. The Black Lip Abalone is hand-harvested by skilled commercial divers using surface-supplied breathing systems in the pristine waters of eastern Victoria.
Native to southern Australian waters — endemic to the cold, nutrient-rich reefs of eastern Victoria
Harvested by licensed commercial divers — only 23 licensed operators in the Eastern Zone
Managed under strict sustainability controls — science-based quota system ensures long-term viability
Our Purpose
Vision
To ensure the long-term sustainability, productivity and integrity of the Eastern Zone abalone fishery through responsible stewardship and strong governance.
Mission
To represent and support our members through effective governance, evidence-based decision-making and active engagement with government, scientists and stakeholders.
Role
To provide a credible, professional voice for the Eastern Zone abalone industry, preserving environmental stewardship and maintaining strong governance.
Featured Leadership
Helen Burvill
Executive Officer
Joe Peel
President
Brendan Wadsworth
Committee Member
Chris Daniel
Secretary
Latest Resources & News
Climate Change
Senate Inquiry: Climate-related Marine Invasive Species
Federal inquiry into long-spined sea urchin threats to the Great Southern Reef.
Fisheries Management
Sea Urchins Centro Management Plan
$55 million national investment proposal for reef restoration.
News
Fisheries Officers Catch New Year Abalone Thieves
VFA enforcement action against illegal abalone poaching.
Industry. Research. Partnerships.
Have a question about the Eastern Zone abalone fishery?
Contact EZAIA for industry information, research enquiries, regional partnerships or questions about our work across eastern Victoria.