Still time to have your say on proposed South Coast Marine Park

• Public comment period for the proposed South Coast Marine Park ends 16 June
• Consultation builds on engagement dating back to 2021
• Drop-in information station in Esperance will continue to run until 15 June

Western Australians are again being urged to have their say on the proposed South Coast Marine Park, with the project's public comment period ending on 16 June.

The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) has been engaging with the south coast community and industry about the proposed marine park since 2021, along with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) and Traditional Owners.

In keeping with the consultative approach taken by Government, the project's public comment period began earlier this year and was extended from three to four months.

Esperance residents are encouraged to continue using DBCA's drop-in information station at Lotteries House, where DBCA staff are available to answer questions about the proposed marine park and assist local community members in navigating the online submission process.

The information station will remain open until 15 June.

DBCA has held eight meetings with commercial fishers last month, providing valuable feedback to consider as part of the analysis of public submissions.

Under the park's indicative management plan, about 75 per cent of the marine park will remain open for commercial and recreational fishing.

Visitors will continue to be allowed to four-wheel drive or walk their dog as is currently allowed, while beach fishing will still be allowed throughout 78 per cent of the marine park's coastline.

Feedback received during the public comment period is important and, where appropriate and possible, will be incorporated into the park's final management plan.

To make a submission or to take part in an online survey, visit www.dbca.wa.gov.au/pscmp or email the department at pscmp@dbca.wa.gov.au

Comments attributed to Environment Minister Reece Whitby:

"We want to see a world-class marine park along Western Australia's south coast that rivals Ningaloo or the Great Barrier Reef.

"That's why our Government is conducting more consultation for this proposal than any government has for a marine park in our State's history.

"A project of this scale requires a thorough and consultative process - and that is what we are conducting.

"I know a number of individuals have already made submissions, and this information will be useful in informing the park's final management plan.

"I encourage all Western Australians with an interest in this project to have their say by the end of the public comment period."