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For the first time since 1983, Nambucca River oyster growers can harvest and directly sell their shellfish after the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) rezoned sections of the river.
NSW DPIRD Shellfish Program manager, Anthony Zammit, said two out of three Nambucca River harvest zones now have direct harvest approval.
"This means locally grown shellfish can be sold directly from the waterway," Mr Zammit said.
"We've worked with industry to deliver this positive outcome, which gives Nambucca region oyster farmers the confidence to bring their shellfish to market.
"Growers are now providing quality local seafood for the community to enjoy, as the NSW oyster industry continue to deliver valuable results to the economy, regional employment and tourism."
The rezoning of leases along the Nambucca River was achieved thanks to a year-long project to improve water quality, led by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA).
NSW EPA Executive Director of Operations, Jason Gordon, said the EPA had ramped up its work with Nambucca Valley Council over the past five years to prevent sewage overflows impacting the river.
"Since 2019, we have placed seven pollution reduction programs on the local sewage plant's Environment Protection Licence, requiring a range of upgrades to improve infrastructure, prevent overflows and enhance their response to pollution incidents," Mr Gordon said.
"We held regular meetings with the council and the local oyster industry to hear and address their concerns and helped with the cost of monthly water monitoring within the catchment.
"This is a great example of collaboration across government, and we thank oyster growers, Nambucca Valley Council, DPIRD, the NSW Food Authority and the Department of Climate Change, Energy Environment and Water for working together to find a solution for a local problem."
The NSW Food Authority operates the NSW Shellfish Program in partnership with the NSW oyster industry to ensure the safety of shellfish harvested from NSW waters.
The NSW EPA is continuing to work closely with local oyster growers and the council to monitor and improve water quality in the region.