ASBTIA is the peak body representing Southern Bluefin Tuna quota holders in Australia. The Association represents more than 80% of Australia’s quota holdings and 100% of the tuna ranching companies. The Association began in 1978 as the Tuna Boat Owners Association of Australia (TBOA). Members of TBOA borrowed heavily to invest in innovation and to rationalise the industry after quotas were introduced in 1984. Whilst the initial quota of 14,500 tonnes was well below the catch levels of the 1980’s, the deliberate shift to higher value production was a master stroke, laying the foundation for the success of todays industry.
