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Image: Carl Charter
The South Australian Parliament has successfully passed legislation ensuring the enduring protection of the Giant Australian Cuttlefish. This momentous action, led by the State Government, enforces permanent restrictions on harvesting these marine creatures in the northern Spencer Gulf.
The Fisheries Management (Cuttlefish–Northern Spencer Gulf) Amendment Bill 2025 was introduced following a lapse in protective measures under the previous Liberal government in 2020. The reinstated restrictions, which were temporarily brought back by the new administration shortly after their election in 2022, now hold the weight of law, promising a $20,000 fine for anyone found taking Giant Cuttlefish from these waters.
Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, Clare Scriven, shared, “The Giant Australian Cuttlefish is an iconic species that captures people’s imaginations, and we are incredibly fortunate to host their aggregation in our state’s waters, the only known event like this for the species anywhere in the world—right on our doorstep.
“By having these restrictions enshrined in law, it means that their protection will be safeguarded into the future and generations to come can continue to experience one of South Australia’s most extraordinary natural events.
“I thank Eddie Hughes for his advocacy in clearly putting forward the views of his community on this important issue and pushing for the highest possible protection for Giant Australian Cuttlefish.”
The legislation goes beyond simple prohibition, allowing for continued scientific research and monitoring through regulated permits. This balanced approach ensures that while the species is protected, valuable scientific insight can still be obtained to support the thriving ecological community.
Every winter, the waters near Whyalla are the staging ground for a remarkable natural event: tens of thousands of Giant Cuttlefish converge to spawn. This spectacle not only provides a unique opportunity for marine observation but also significantly boosts local tourism. The newly secured legal protection gives businesses and communities in the Upper Spencer Gulf the confidence to further invest in and promote this natural marvel.
Lucy Hood, Minister for Climate, Environment and Water, shared, “These unique marine animals are locals who attract global attention, and we are determined for that to continue. Our Government has moved to ensure the species’ population is given the best chance to breed in large numbers, free from outside threats. Measures taken will go a long way in protecting this incredible species, one of many we are so fortunate to have right here in our state.”
Local Member for Giles, Eddie Hughes, added, “With this protection enshrined in legislation, it secures the future of the amazing and unique Giant Australian Cuttlefish breeding aggregation. My motivation for initiating the legislation protection was the result of a previous government diluting protection with just the sign-off of a minister. That will now never happen again. At long last, through this legislation change, we have done what has needed to be done for this globally unique phenomenon.”
By securing the future of the Giant Australian Cuttlefish, South Australia preserves a natural phenomenon unique not only in the region but in the world, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy and learn from this extraordinary annual event.
