Government proposes major expansion of marine protection zones in south-east Australia

THE federal government has announced plans to significantly expand marine protection zones across Victoria’s coast, a move that would create one of the world’s largest networks of “no-take” marine areas.

Under the draft management plan for the South-east Marine Parks Network, the proposal would extend protections to cover an area larger than Ireland, according to Corangamite federal member Libby Coker.

“The ocean is part of our psyche – it really matters to the people who live here on the coast,” Ms Coker said.

“It’s home to some of the most unique marine life in the world, including rare and threatened species like pygmy blue whales, shy and wandering albatross, and the southern elephant seal.”

The proposal would prevent new oil and gas projects, including seismic testing, within the newly designated areas.

New deep-sea mineral mining and other industrial activities would also be blocked.

The announcement follows a recent decision to expand protections around Heard and McDonald Islands, bringing over half of Australia’s oceans under some level of protection.

Australian Marine Conservation Society protected areas manager Adele Pedder said that by all indications, the draft management plan will improve protection for marine life.

“Australia’s south-east continental waters contain some of the richest, most diverse life on the planet, but they are under the most pressure.

“Three great oceans – the Pacific, Indian and Southern oceans – combine to create an upwelling of deep, nutrient-rich water that turbocharges marine life in the region.

“It’s home to blue whales, southern right whales, orcas, little penguins, dolphins, fur seals, leatherback sea turtles, southern bluefin tuna, fragile kelp forests and deep sea reefs.”

However, Ms Pedder expressed concern that the proposed opening of some protected areas to commercial fishing could undermine the region’s biodiversity and recovery.

According to Ms Coker, these changes will bring the entire South-east network to 86 per cent coverage in highly-protected “no-take” zones, which she described as an excellent outcome for coastal communities invested in marine conservation.

The South-east Marine Parks Network covers 700,000sqkm and includes 14 marine parks spanning the coasts of Victoria, South Australia, and Tasmania.

Ms Coker encouraged community members to review the draft plan and submit feedback via the consultation portal, which is open until November 14.