Protecting the future of our marine estate
The NSW Government is seeking community views on a new marine park proposal, which includes 25 sites between Newcastle and Wollongong.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said sites have been carefully analysed by the NSW Marine Estate Management Authority and the community will still have another chance to have its say.
“NSW’s beautiful marine environment is iconic and the envy of the world. We want to keep it that way so that future generations can continue to enjoy it,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“The NSW Government is committed to preserving and protecting our natural environment.”
Under the proposal, the marine park will have three types of zones:
- Sanctuary Zones would enhance biodiversity and allow a range of activities such as snorkeling, diving and boating;
- Conservation Zones would provide a high level of environmental benefit and allow abalone and lobster fishing; and
- Special Purpose Zones would seek to address a specific threat or allow a certain activity such as recreational fishing on an artificial reef.
The NSW Government has also today unveiled $45.7 million for the first stage of a 10-year Marine Estate Management Strategy.
The investment will help to address some of the biggest threats to our marine environment, including pollution and litter.
Minister for Primary Industries Niall Blair said our coastal environments are famous for good fishing, diving, swimming and whale watching but we can’t afford to take them for granted.
“This strategy is the first of its kind; it will streamline how we manage our 1,750 km of coastline, 826 beaches and 185 estuaries in NSW,” Mr Blair said.
“Stage one of the strategy will focus on addressing the most severe threats to the health of the marine estate from pollution and marine litter.”
Environment Minister Gabrielle Upton added, “The Marine Estate Strategy is a massive win for the environment and for those who enjoy getting onto the water. As in all things, the important thing is to get the balance right.”
Member for Coogee Bruce Notley-Smith said, “We want to make sure Coogee and all our coastal environments are well looked after and I encourage my electorate to have their say on the marine park proposal.”
Anyone can have their say during the six-week consultation period on the proposed marine park at: www.marine.nsw.gov.au
For drone footage of the coastline visit: