In order to secure the future of Australian aquaculture, it is increasingly clear that, alongside effective and responsible production, building and maintaining community support is vital. The Tasmanian salmon industry is acutely aware of the need to garner and maintain societal support. A number of factors contribute towards the achievement of community acceptability (or social license to operate). These include: the perception that a company offers benefits; that it contributes to the well-being of the region, respects the local way of life and acts fairly; that it listens, responds and exhibits reciprocity; and that relations are based on an enduring regard for each others interests. Many of these factors are based on understanding, and contributing towards the achievement of, that which is valued by local and regional communities. This project aims to understand the regional development and well-being futures envisaged by residents of NW Tasmania and how salmonid farming can contribute to meeting these shared values.
