Impact assessment of investment in aquaculture-based livelihoods in the Pacific islands region and tropical Australia

This impact assessment study sought to understand the influence of two major aquaculture‑based livelihood projects through the lens of 40 mini-projects derived from the major projects. This novel approach to research and development delivery was a collaboration between ACIAR project leaders and stakeholders in Pacific island countries. Bottlenecks were identified that could be resolved with short‑term projects to help advance a wide range of aquaculture topics in the Pacific island countries of Fiji, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Samoa, Kiribati, Solomon Islands and Nauru; one Pacific island territory, Wallis and Fortuna; and Australia.

Advances in aquaculture achieved through these projects, combined with advances from linked ACIAR project investments, are forecast to produce a positive return on investment. The appraisers found that final users have adopted research outputs, and this is largely attributable to the holistic approach of maintaining research team continuity and in-country presence, taking a long-term view focused on developing an industry, partnering with governments in Fiji and Tonga, and working in collaboration with the commercial sector.