The federal government today opened consultation on the review of management plans for most of the nation’s commonwealth marine parks.
“This is a rare, once-in-a-decade opportunity for Australians to have a say on the protection of our unique ocean areas and the turtles, whales and other marine life that live in our waters,” said Richard Leck, Head of Oceans, World Wide Fund for Nature Australia.
“Most people are not aware that within our marine park network only a small amount is set aside as marine sanctuaries.
“Industrial scale fishing is allowed in the majority of our marine park area. In mid-July, WWF revealed the longline fishery operating on Australia’s east coast has hooked, entangled or struck more than 800 turtles since 2018.
“WWF is calling for at least 30% of Australia's oceans to be protected as marine sanctuaries where mining activity, and commercial or recreational fishing is not allowed.
“It’s crucial these sanctuaries cover the many important ecosystems and areas for biodiversity that at the moment have either no protection or are open to fishing.
“Ecosystems within marine sanctuaries are healthier and more resilient to some climate change impacts. They also produce more fish which expand out to waters outside sanctuaries supporting fisheries.
“New or improved sanctuary protections must be co-designed in partnership with First Nations communities and guided by Traditional Owner leadership and knowledge systems.
“The federal government has jumped out of the blocks by proposing expanded Marine Parks for Norfolk and Lord Howe Islands. It’s a great start.
“Now the government must finish the job and secure lasting protection for the rest of our marine network,” Mr Leck said.
Submissions are now open for a period of 60 days for the first public comment period. This is to consider new information and the latest science.
Based on submissions in the first stage, Parks Australia will prepare draft management plans. There will then be a second period of public consultation for feedback on the draft plans. This is where the boundaries of new or improved marine sanctuaries will be finalised.
WWF-Australia has launched a petition calling on the Australian government to create and strengthen marine sanctuaries to protect at least 30% of Australia’s oceans by 2030.
Go to https://wwf.org.au/get-involved/marine-sanctuaries/
Contact details:
Paul Fahy, 0455 528 161, [email protected]
