For all enquiries about the AquaFI Lab, please get in touch.
Aquaculture and Feed Innovation Laboratory
A state-of-the-art aquaculture research innovation laboratory
Based at Deakin’s Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus, the lab will position Victoria as a leader in aquaculture research and training – identifying break-through mechanisms to enhance industry growth and create jobs in Victoria and across Australia.
A leader in aquaculture research and training
Aquaculture is the fastest growing food production sector globally and is vital to meeting the food demands of future generations. Incorporating existing capabilities, the Aquaculture and Feed Innovation Laboratory (AquaFI Lab) will focus on sustainable fish production, novel feed and aquaculture technology development, and industry training. The work will expand into feed extrusion technology and the development of sustainable ingredients and raw materials for next-generation circular bioeconomy approaches for the seafood sector.
A key outcome is the delivery of a $2.6 million feed extrusion plant for feed manufacture and innovation.
Our capabilities and services
The AquaFI Lab will build on Deakin’s strong track record of success in aquaculture and in taking innovation to impact. Engaging with existing and new industry partners in research and development through a suite of research and industry services, it will support a pipeline of commercial entities and pathways to activate IP.
The AquaFI Lab offers unique service offerings including:
- Aquaculture research and development: Advanced research and development for industry to develop new products, test technologies, investigate climate mitigation strategies and improve product quality.
- Raw material development: Novel processing technologies converting high volume, low value materials into high value materials and bioactives.
- Bespoke feeds: Commercialisation of feeds for the hobbyist industry and research community.
- Feed manufacturing services: Customised manufacturing of feeds charged at fee-for-service rate.
- Feed extrusion courses: Intensive training focusing on extruder operation and maintenance.
- Expert services: Consulting services to commercial feed companies, raw material producers and farmers.
- Co-Innovation Research and Training Spaces: Multifunctional spaces to enable co-innovation with industry stakeholders and collaborators.
Partner with us
The AquaFI Lab enables co-innovation with industry stakeholders and collaborators with state-of-the-art technology and research and training spaces. If you're interested in partnering with us, please get in touch.
Three landmark aquatic projects
In 2021, a $22.1million partnership was announced between Deakin and the Victorian Government, strengthening our sustainability commitment and investment in regional Victoria's future. Three key projects in water management, aquaculture and marine science will support research capabilities and facilities while also creating local jobs.
Victorian Government's Higher Education State Investment Fund
This project includes co-contributions from the Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund (VHESIF).
Aquaculture covers a range of disciplines, like biology, chemistry, engineering and economics, we want to bring in the entire aquaculture industry and solve these problems together.
Associate Head of School Regional (Warrnambool & Queenscliff)
Deakin projects funded by the Victorian Government's Higher Education State Investment Fund
Explore Deakin University’s cutting-edge initiatives backed by the Victorian Government’s Higher Education State Investment Fund, driving innovation and impact across research and education.
An innovative research centre focused on advanced battery prototyping and commercialisation.
Genesis Simulator is the only one of its type in Australia. It offers an immersive simulation experience, 5-metre-high screen and virtual worlds.
Deakin Hydrogen Hub is translating research and development into clean energy and transport innovation.
Environmental science labs, virtual reality infrastructure, immersive projection mapping facilities and nursing simulation centre.
Our Waurn Ponds Campus environment is a ‘living laboratory’ includes a network of ponds, and constructed wetland and irrigation systems.
Australia’s unique advanced manufacturing innovation hub that helps businesses through its unique facilities, programs and services.
Contact us
Email the team
