The Australian Marine Conservation Society today welcomed the announcement by the Labor Opposition that they will replace and improve the Government’s flawed marine park plans if elected.
Australia’s original network of marine parks was proclaimed by the Gillard Government in 2012. The marine parks were strongly supported by science and by Australians around the country. The Abbott Government suspended those marine parks in 2013 and the Turnbull Government introduced new plans that passed parliament last week, almost halving the protection provided in the original marine park plans.
Darren Kindleysides, CEO of the AMCS said: “The Government’s plans represent the biggest cutback in conservation protection in Australian history, with an area almost twice the size of Victoria removed from our marine sanctuary network.
“They ignore the wishes of people around Australia from over a decade of consultation. They also ignore the science, including the findings of the Coalition’s own expert scientific review.
“We welcome Labor’s commitment to reverse the cutbacks. Their announcement today is a signpost towards a better future for our oceans, and provides hope that Australia could once again take our place as a world leader in ocean management.
“We note that The Greens have also rejected the current plans and we look forward to working with all parties to restore Australia’s marine sanctuaries.
“AMCS stands alongside all ocean-loving Australians. We will not cease fighting until meaningful and effective sanctuary protections are restored to our precious and unique oceans,” said Kindleysides.
Media Contact: AMCS Communications Manager, Ingrid Neilson 0421 972 731.