This inquiry was established to consider the range spread of the native long-spined sea urchin (Centrostephanus rodgersii)—commonly called 'Centro'—which is an endemic species to New South Wales (NSW) waters. In particular, the inquiry considered the range extension of Centro into new areas of the Great Southern Reef (GSR) region, including the eastern coast of Victoria and Tasmania.

The inquiry was also established to consider where the Commonwealth could lead, support and collaborate on Centro management strategies. This included current and future actions undertaken by the states and industries individually and collaboratively, and where there are opportunities to draw on the knowledge of First Nations communities and their involvement in commercial or restoration programs.

A particular focus was leveraging the opportunities available in the management of Centro to develop industry and markets for commercial harvesting as a premium food product, including in Australia and overseas.