- Indicative management
plans for South Coast Marine Park released for four-month public comment period
- Proposal developed in partnership with
Traditional Owner groups and stakeholders
- Builds on consultation commenced in 2021
Western Australians are
being urged to have their say on one of the State's most important marine conservation
projects.
The proposed South Coast
Marine Park will provide important protections to marine species, such as the unique
ruby seadragon, which is not found anywhere else in the world.
The area is also home to
southern right whale nurseries, vast kelp forests, vulnerable seal and sea lion
colonies, precious reefs, and important fisheries.
About 75 per cent of the
proposed marine park will remain open for commercial and recreational fishing,
with recreational beach access unchanged by this proposal.
The park will also
provide new opportunities for nature-based tourism, supporting and further
diversifying the local economy.
An extensive consultation
process, led by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions
with support from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional
Development, and Traditional Owners, began in September 2021.
A Community Reference
Committee then coordinated consultation among key stakeholders, industry groups,
commercial and recreational fishers, scientists, and conservation interests for
18 months, with the committee concluding its work in 2023.
This consultation was in
addition to community workshops and one-on-one meetings with key stakeholders
in towns along WA's south coast and Perth.
The State Government will continue to work with the
fishing industry on transitioning toward the future arrangements, including
establishing a Voluntary Fisheries Adjustment Scheme if requested by local
fishers.
The public comment period
is open until June 16. For more information or to have your say, visit dbca.wa.gov.au/haveyoursay
Comments attributed to Environment Minister
Reece Whitby:
"Community feedback will
be critical to ensuring we achieve our vision of a world-class marine park that
can be supported by the Western Australian community, and that's why we've
extended consultation above the statutory three-month minimum.
"Our vision is to create
a marine park rivalling Ningaloo and the Great Barrier Reef. It will be the
first ocean marine park along WA's south coast, filling a key gap in the
State's marine reserve system.
"Where possible, we've ensured both locals and visitors can still enjoy
their favourite recreational fishing locations whilst also noting activities
such as diving, boating and beach driving will not be impacted by this
initiative.
Comments attributed to Fisheries Minister
Don Punch:
"Following the conclusion
of the public comment period, the State Government will carefully consider the
feedback of all stakeholders, including commercial and recreational fishers to
ensure that we achieve our vision of a well-balanced marine park.
"Previous marine parks established
in WA have demonstrated the compatibility of marine parks and sustainable
economic activity and I am confident that we can reach the same outcome on the
South Coast."
