The expansion of Australian pearl and trochus fisheries in the 1870s marked a significant development in the region's economy. Utilizing indigenous and Asian divers, this commercial shell fishing industry thrived, contributing to local livelihoods and international trade. The fisheries highlighted the intersection of cultural practices and economic opportunities in Australia.

The Australian pearl and trochus fisheries in 1870 informed multicultural narratives in Australian poetry. Poets like Judith Wright explored themes of identity and belonging, reflecting the diverse cultural influences that shaped the coastal communities. This period also saw poetry becoming a medium for expressing the complexities of colonial encounters and their lasting impacts on indigenous cultures.