The Australian government has launched an aquaculture challenge for the Indian Ocean region that seeks innovative solutions to promote sustainable aquaculture practices.

The challenge is led by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade with a AUD 3 million (USD 2.2 million) fund. The contest will prioritise innovations that address key issues including rethinking feed for aquaculture, new ocean products and sustainable design.

The competition is open to academia, industry, the general public and non-governmental organisations, and individual projects can apply for up to AUD 750,000 (USD 558,225).

The closing date is 30 June 2016.

Launching the challenge in India, Australia’s High Commissioner-designate to India, Harinder Sidhu, said: “The challenge aims to crowd source funds to support the most innovative and impactful new technologies for future markets.”

According to Sean Kelly, Australian Consulate General for South India, Australia is looking at collaborating with Indian counterparts to facilitate sharing of expertise on a commercial basis.

Source: The Hindu Business Line. Read the full article here.