Pearl Producers Association

The Pearl Producers Association (PPA) is the peak representative organisation for the Australian South Sea pearling industry, supporting pearl producers across Western Australia and the Northern Territory.

The association represents an industry centred on the cultivation of Australian South Sea Pearls using the Pinctada maxima, or silver-lipped pearl oyster. These oysters are found in the clean tropical waters of northern and north-western Australia, including the Kimberley region, where environmental conditions support the production of high-quality South Sea Pearls.

The PPA works across a range of industry matters to support its members and promote the long-term sustainability of Australian pearling. A major focus is responsible marine management and maintaining confidence in the environmental credentials of the industry. The Australian South Sea Pearl Oyster fishery achieved Marine Stewardship Council certification, recognising the sustainable management of the wild oyster fishery and the industry’s commitment to marine stewardship.

The association also helps preserve and promote the history of Australian pearling, which has played an important role in the cultural and economic development of Broome, the Kimberley and northern Australia since the nineteenth century.

Through industry representation, sustainability initiatives and the promotion of Australian South Sea Pearls, the Pearl Producers Association supports one of Australia’s distinctive jewellery and marine industries while helping ensure its heritage, environmental practices and future remain strong.