Whyalla’s world-famous giant cuttlefish have had a record hatching season, and new laws will help keep this unique South Australian phenomenon thriving for years to come
Whyalla’s famous cuttlefish have had one of their best seasons yet, with more than 600,000 eggs already hatched along the Cuttlefish Coast. And now new laws are on the way to keep them safe for good.
Despite the algal bloom, more than 90 per cent of the estimated 800,000 eggs are expected to hatch by the end of October. It’s a big win for both the environment and for Whyalla, which draws visitors from around the world to witness this annual magical underwater show.
To lock in long-term protection, the Malinauskas Government is introducing the Fisheries Management (Cuttlefish–Northern Spencer Gulf) Amendment Bill 2025, which makes permanent the existing ban on taking cuttlefish in the northern Spencer Gulf. Fines of up to $20,000 apply to anyone caught breaking the rules.
Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Clare Scriven said –
“The algal bloom has emphasised the importance of doing everything we can to protect South Australia’s marine life now and into the future.
Each winter, tens of thousands of these extraordinary animals gather near Whyalla to spawn, creating an incredible underwater spectacle and attracting visitors and divers from around the world.
This Bill enshrines in law protections to help ensure future generations can continue to experience one of South Australia’s most extraordinary natural events.”
To help shield the eggs from the algal bloom, a “bubble curtain” – a world-first for South Australia – was installed to protect up to 80,000 eggs. The underwater barrier worked so well, it’ll stay on standby for future breeding seasons.
Minister for the Environment and Water Lucy Hood said –
“The Australian giant cuttlefish is a unique marine animal and the success of this year’s breeding season amid the threat of the algal bloom is really positive.”
These new hatchlings will soon leave Cuttlefish Coast for the Upper Spencer Gulf before returning next winter, proving that when it comes to romance, Whyalla’s cuttlefish still know how to put on a show!
To read more about these incredible creatures, click here.
