Our Mission
To support, promote, and facilitate the growth of the Australian microalgae industry by connecting the full value chain, advancing evidence-based policy, enabling shared infrastructure, building market recognition, and strengthening workforce capability.
Through collaboration, knowledge sharing and strategic partnerships, we aim to:
- Support industry growth and commercialisation across emerging and established markets
- Foster connections among private enterprise, academia and government.
- Advocate for policy and regulatory frameworks that enable sustainable industry development
- Enhance visibility of Australian capabilities in the microalgae sector
- Promote innovation and research excellence in microalgae technologies.
APPLICATIONS
What are the uses and applications for microalgae?
Food & Additives
Microalgae provide natural colours, flavours and functional ingredients for food and beverages.
Animal Feed
Long used as a nutritious feed, microalgae are now gaining attention for their ability to improve animal health and reduce emissions.
Health
Microalgae are a powerhouse source of omega-3 oils, antioxidants, pigments like astaxanthin, and a wide range of vitamins and minerals.
Cosmetics and skincare
Algae extracts are valued in skincare for their moisturising, cleansing, antioxidant and UV-protective properties.
Soil Conditioner, Fertiliser
Microalgae can be processed into low-cost, renewable biofertilisers that enrich soil, improve structure, and support plant health.
Wastewater Bioremediation
Microalgae excel at removing excess nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus from wastewater, offering a cleaner, more sustainable approach than conventional treatment methods.
Biofuels
While commercial challenges remain, microalgae continue to show promise as an alternative feedstock for renewable fuels.
Biofibers & Biomaterials
Researchers are developing algae-derived fibres, polymers and bioplastics that could one day replace petroleum-based materials.
“Microalgae are tiny cells with the power to reshape entire industries.”
Why Microalgae, Why Australia?
World-class research and infrastructure – Advanced capabilities in strain development, cultivation systems, bioprocessing, and access to national collections and pilot-scale facilities
Diverse and scalable environments – Favourable climate conditions supporting year-round cultivation and multiple production systems
Broad application capability – Enabling innovation across sustainable ingredients, environmental remediation, low-carbon fuels, and bio-based materials
Rapidly growing global demand – Strong market pull for alternative proteins, omega-3s, fertilisers, and circular manufacturing inputs
Highly productive bio-platform – Microalgae offers efficient conversion of CO₂ and nutrients into high-value biomass and compounds
Aligned to sustainability and decarbonisation goals – Supports low-impact production systems and contributes to circular bioeconomy outcomes
Strategic opportunity for global leadership – Australia’s capability base positions it to scale and compete internationally with the right coordination and investment
Want to become a member?
Get in touch to find out about our membership program
Media and Articles
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