Coral Sea Marine Park Management Plan

The Australian Government’s Marine Park Management Plan Review is open now — and it’s the best chance in a decade to restore and strengthen protection. In 2018 the Management Plan cut protection to nearly half leaving critical habitats and reefs exposed.

This is an opportunity for Outdoors Queensland member businesses and organisations to speak up for the reefs, wildlife and ocean environments that support outdoor recreation, education, health, nature-based tourism and associated services across Queensland.

THE MAIN MESSAGE
Support a substantial increase in highly protected National Park Zones in the Coral Sea Marine Park, while maintaining access for sustainable, low-impact outdoor activities including diving, snorkelling, wildlife viewing, boating, paddling, fishing, education and scientific activities.

WHY THIS MATTERS TO THE OUTDOOR SECTOR
Healthy oceans, marine wildlife and coral ecosystems enable high-quality outdoor recreation and nature-based tourism. Stronger protection helps sustain safe, appealing and resilient places for participants, clients, communities and visitors. National Park Zones protect biodiversity while allowing non-extractive outdoor experiences to continue. Science-based zoning can build resilience and reduce cumulative pressures on ecosystems already affected by climate change. Meaningful Traditional Owner participation can strengthen stewardship and deepen understanding of Sea Country.

Making your submission

Key Recommendations for Submissions  

• Substantially increase National Park Zone number and size to restore protections reduced in 2018 and apply Comprehensiveness, Adequacy and Representation principles
• Improve National Park Zone protection for priority reefs: Frederick Reef, Kenn Plateau, Holmes Reefs, South Flinders, Tregrosse Reef, Bougainville Reef, Marion Reef, the Osprey Group, and the Townsville Trough
• Prohibit industrial activities incompatible with marine park values — including bottom trawling, mid-water trawling, demersal longlining, and sea cucumber harvesting
• Ensure strong monitoring, science-based management, interagency cooperation, and co-management with Traditional Owners

To make your submission,

1. First review the Coral Sea Marine Park Review slide show, then
2. Read the Submission Guide, then
3. Go to https://consult.dcceew.gov.au/six-draft-mgt-plans-for-44-australian-marine-parks
4. Scroll down and click the Make a Submission button

Click below to review …