Four million salmon died prematurely at Tasmanian fish farms in 2025, government data reveals

In 2025, approximately four million salmon died prematurely at Tasmanian fish farms, according to data released by the state's Environmental Protection Authority. The deaths, totaling over 20,000 tonnes, were particularly high in November and December, with over 40 tonnes dying per day in December alone. Experts attribute the increased mortality to rising ocean temperatures, which reduce oxygen levels and increase disease vulnerability in the salmon. Concerns are being raised about animal welfare and the lack of regulatory action, especially fines, compared to other regions like Norway, where similar mass fish deaths result in significant penalties. Environment Tasmania argues that the absence of fines in Tasmania fails to incentivize the salmon industry to prevent these mass deaths.

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