Tasmanian salmon sector measures social impact

Tasmania’s salmon farmers say a new report demonstrates the industry’s important role in helping to build communities in the state.

The study, carried out by consultancy 3P Advisory commissioned by industry body Salmon Tasmania, involved a comprehensive assessment against the “Community Benefit Framework”, based on emerging global approaches to assess social impact.

Kym Goodes, principal of 3P Advisory today delivered an update on the research project, commissioned by Salmon Tasmania and undertaken over the previous six months, that assesses the social benefits of the Tasmanian salmon industry.

“This method of assessment is a groundbreaking approach as it’s not just about donations and sponsorship, it is about a comprehensive understanding of how an industry contributes to building and supporting communities, said Kym Goodes, Principle of 3P Consulting.

“This is about understanding the true contribution to the wellbeing of communities through dimensions of benefit that include Quality of Life, Social Inclusion, Social cohesion and result in tangible benefits in areas such as literacy and healthcare, through to shared infrastructure between the industry and local Tasmanians,” said Goodes.

Global thinking defining the direct and indirect community benefit from large organisations considers the integration of a range of relevant elements. These elements are derived from globally recognised frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals and other, similarly recognised frameworks.

Goodes added: “At a practical level, common themes emerging from this work have a focus on the benefit contribution of an industry to the communities where they operate, that look beyond the usual measures of productivity benefits, income, employment to understand how there is equal opportunity of access to benefits.”

Each of the Community Benefits Framework dimensions are interconnected, contributing unique insights that together, paint a complete picture of the social impact of any given initiative, organisation or whole-of-industry.

The report update was presented at today’s inaugural AquaTAS event, a half day forum showcasing the Tasmanian salmon aquaculture industry’s innovations, strategic priorities, and value to the Tasmanian community with around 180 stakeholders in attendance.