NRE Tas is seeking to establish a panel of commercial operators (a Services Panel) to undertake the East Coast Rock Lobster Translocation Program for the 2026-27 season, from October 2026 to May 2027. All suitable applicants will be appointed to the Services Panel, and will then be able to apply for a contract to undertake all or part of the Translocation Program.

The East Coast Rock Lobster Translocation Program moves undersize rock lobster from selected sites in the south west of Tasmania to inshore selected sites on the east coast, to improve the stock on the east coast. Release sites are in three zones on the east coast: south east coast, mid east coast, and north east coast. The aim of the program is to improve the east coast stock. Released lobsters grow and enhance the stock and fishing experience on the east coast once they reach the legal size.

Translocation activities typically take place from October each year to March the following year.