A proposed marine park on the south coast is part of the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions’ (DBCA) Plan for Our Parks initiative.
The Department has opened public consultation on the marine park with the commercial, recreational and charter fishing sectors, along with aquaculture, environmental groups, Local Government, traditional owners, tourism groups and the community.
DBCA said the area under study for the marine park extended from Bremer Bay eastward to the Western Australian border, and offshore to the limit of State waters.
It said development of an indicative boundary would occur as part of the consultation process.
Minister for the Environment, Amber-Jade Sanderson said Western Australian marine parks were multi-use and allowed for biodiversity conservation and cultural activities alongside a range of commercial and recreational activities.
“Management arrangements for the marine park will be developed in consultation with a Community Reference Committee, informed by Sector Advisory Groups, to ensure a balanced approach that provides for ongoing sustainable use, including commercial, recreational and charter fishing and aquaculture,” Ms Sanderson said.
She said former Government Minister, Francis Logan had agreed to chair the Community Reference Committee, with expressions of interest for further membership to be advertised shortly.
“The Department will seek to work closely with traditional owners in the planning process with a view to joint management of the marine park when it is formally established,” Ms Sanderson said
“Stakeholders will be consulted throughout the planning process which is due for completion in February 2024,” she said.
