Australia is an ocean nation. Our coasts shape who we are; our reefs and wildlife inspire millions, and healthy seas sustain communities, culture and livelihoods.
Yet our ocean and coasts are under growing pressure from climate change, industrial development, overexploitation, pollution and the rapid loss of nature.
Since 1965, Australians have trusted the Australian Marine Conservation Society (AMCS) to defend the ocean with science, people-power and principled advocacy. In that time, our collective efforts have delivered world-leading marine parks, protection for places once thought lost, defences for threatened species and bans on damaging plastics.
Our Strategic Plan builds on that legacy and sets our direction for the next five years.
AMCS is the guardian and national voice for Australia’s ocean, coasts and marine life. A thriving ocean is fundamental to life on Earth – generating much of the oxygen we need, feeding millions, underpinning economies, shaping our climate and weather, and supporting extraordinary marine biodiversity. For Australians, the ocean is also a source of joy, identity and deep cultural connection.
But today, our blue heart is under unprecedented threat. Australia stands at the frontline of a twin crisis – precipitous biodiversity loss and accelerating climate harm – driven by powerful industries and decades of unsustainable development. Habitat destruction, pollution, overfishing and coastal pressure are pushing ecosystems to the brink.
We are at a critical crossroads.
Over the next five years, we must prevent further destruction from fossil fuels, pollution, unsustainable fishing, and unchecked offshore and coastal development. We must build climate and ecological resilience, protect and restore critical habitats, and accelerate a national shift in how Australians understand, value and defend the ocean. None of this can be achieved without a broad, engaged and empowered movement.
Our Strategic Plan sets out how AMCS will deliver that future: preventing extinctions, expanding marine sanctuaries, stopping new offshore fossil fuel developments, reducing the impact of high-risk fisheries, protecting and restoring habitats and growing a connected, informed and active national movement for the ocean. Backed by science, with deep policy expertise, strong community support and a trusted voice, AMCS is ready to scale its impact at the moment Australia’s ocean most needs it.
Together, we can step back from the edge – and secure lasting, intergenerational protection for the blue heart of Australia.