According to ABC news, the decision was announced at a meeting of scientists from the Marine and Tropical Sciences Research Facility and the board of the Torres Strait Regional Authority on Thursday Island off far north Queensland.
Biotechnologist Libby Evans-Illidge says the Environment Department has given verbal approval to grow the common bath sponge in mesh cages off Masig Island.
She says it is a great opportunity for the Islanders to develop a profitable business.
"It's a very well established market and it's currently being supplied through wild harvest fisheries which are in decline around the world," she told ABC news.
Australia's First Commercial Sponge Farm
AUSTRALIA - In a first for Australia, the Federal Government has given the green light to establish a commercial sponge farm which will be located in the waters of the Torres Strait.