Proposed South Coast Marine Park anticipated to rival Ningaloo and Great Barrier Reef

A new marine park proposed for Western Australia – the South Coast Marine Park – is closer to becoming realised following WA Environment Minister Reece Whitby having travelled to Esperance for the sixth and final formal meeting with key stakeholders.

Less than 1% of Western Australia’s waters on the south coast are currently protected as marine reserves.

Minister Whitby advised "WA's south coast is globally recognised for its diverse marine life. Our vision is for a world class marine park that rivals Ningaloo and the Great Barrier Reef.

"We need to work together to ensure the long-term sustainability of both commercial and recreational fishing experiences as well as protecting our marine ecosystems."

The Community Reference Committee meeting involves commercial and recreational fishers, traditional owners, Government agencies as well as tourism and environmental groups. The process will soon move to the next phase of consultation with the wider public.

The proposed South Coast Marine Park will encompass more than 1,000 kilometres of coastline that will rival Ningaloo and the Great Barrier Reef.

Marine parks are created to help conserve habitats, biodiversity and cultural values, while allowing for a range of commercial and recreational activities including fishing, diving, boating and tourism in appropriate zones.

Consultation began in September 2021, with a targeted program undertaken earlier this year involving numerous one-on-one meetings. Information received during this planning process will help shape the proposed zoning scheme.

Western Australians will have an opportunity to comment on the draft management plan, which will include the proposed zoning scheme, when it's released for a three-month public consultation period later this year.

Image: Southern right whales at Point Ann, Fitzgerald River National Park. Credit: Peter Nicholas/DBCA