This report finds that the Tai Timu Tai Pari project’s success will ultimately depend on how the marine spatial plan is used and whether its recommendations are incorporated into local and central government’s decision-making.

The Australian government is justifying it proposed plans to remove marine protections by arguing that they have an adverse effect on the fishing industry. However, there is little evidence of any significant negative impact of marine protection measures.

The Western Australian (WA) coastline spans over 12,500 kilometres and has some of the most unique and biodiverse marine environments in the world. This includes the renowned Kimberley coast in the north, the world heritage areas of Ningaloo Reef and Shark Bay on the Gascoyne coast, the South West Capes and the southern coastline into...

In response to a range of concerns raised by a number of parties about the 40 new Commonwealth marine reserves (CMRs) established in 2012, the Australian Government initiated a review of the design and management of these reserves. Key concerns were the adequacy of consultation and the scientific evidence underpinning the establishment of the reserves...

In November 2012, forty new Commonwealth marine reserves (CMRs) were proclaimed in the South-west, North-west, North, Temperate East and Coral Sea marine regions as part of the Australian Government’s contribution to the National Representative System of Marine Protected Areas (NRSMPA). This followed the establishment of the South-east network in 2007. In December 2013, management plans...