The new information standard for seafood country of origin labelling (CoOL) comes into force from 1 July 2026.

You need to follow the AIM model. Every label must still include one of these origin labels:

  • Australian or (A)
  • Imported or (I)
  • Mixed or (M).

In addition to the AIM model, businesses can choose to include extra details about where seafood is harvested — from broad locations like a country or state, to specific ones like a town or region.

 

Examples

Balmain bugs that are harvested off the coast of New South Wales can be identified as 'Balmain bugs (Australian), ‘Balmain bugs (A)’ or ‘NSW Balmain bugs (A)’.

Clams imported from Cloudy Bay in New Zealand can be identified as ‘Cloudy Bay Clams (Imported)’, ‘New Zealand Clams (I)’ or ‘Cloudy Bay Clams (I)’.

Single statement

If your business uses ONLY Australian seafood or ONLY imported seafood, you can provide a single origin statement instead of labelling individual menu items.

The statement must clearly show the seafood’s origin, such as:

  • We only serve Australian seafood.
  • All the seafood we serve is imported.

Important reminder

The term “international” doesn’t meet the standard’s labelling requirements. Use “imported” to explain the (I) label.

If you are using A,I or M abbreviations, you must always include a legend.