WA Seafood Quality Management Initiative FAQ

• What is Seafood Quality Management Initiative?
• What are the objectives of SQMI?
• Who can use the SQMI?
• What services can SQMI provide?
• How do I Contact the SQMI Manager?

Western Australia 's seafood industry is a dynamic business that produces some of the highest quality seafood in the world.

To help ensure the State's commercial fishers, seafood suppliers and retailers continue to catch and market the best possible seafood for their customers, in 1988 the Department of Fisheries assisted in the establishment of the Seafood Quality Management Initiative (SQMI).

The Department of Fisheries is committed to promoting quality management systems through the SQMI and produces a range of publications to assist commercial fishers, suppliers and retailers to meet - and exceed - standards for food safety and customer satisfaction.

The best quality fish attract the best prices at market!

The SQMI can help your seafood business achieve continuous improvement in quality and productivity and, at the same time, boost consumer confidence in seafood produced and traded commercially in Australia and overseas.

SQMI is funded through the Development and Better Interest Fund (DBIF) and is administered through the Department of Fisheries, working in consultation with an industry reference group.

What are the objectives of SQMI?

The SQMI seeks to:

• Increase awareness and adoption of appropriate quality management and food safety and supply chain management systems in the WA seafood industry;

• Assist in the development of a professional and highly skilled workforce in the WA seafood industry;

• Motivate stakeholders and promote whole of supply chain management practices that improve quality, add value, and raise consumer confidence in WA seafood products; and

• Develop tools and give timely and appropriate advice on matters of food safety, quality and supply chain management for the WA seafood industry.

Who can use the SQMI?

The SQMI is available to any sector of the commercial fishing, aquaculture or related industries. This includes any business involved in the fishing, culture, handling, processing, transport or retailing of fish or seafood products.

What services can SQMI provide?

SQMI services include the provision of:

• Information and advice on food safety, quality and supply chain management.
• Advice to groups or individuals in the seafood industry to develop strategies particular to their needs.
• A liaison role between government and industry on seafood quality issues.
• Advice and assistance with funding applications for activities related to seafood quality.
• Strategic planning and policy support to government and industry on seafood quality.
• Representation on state and national committees dealing with food quality and safety issues.
• Facilitation of training and awareness-raising activities relating to seafood quality and safety.

How do I Contact the SQMI Manager?

You can contact the SQMI Manager at the Departmental Head Office, details are available here.