Victorian marine inquiry ignores almost 90 per cent of coastal waters
Thursday, 13 October 2011
Media release
Almost 90 per cent of Victoria's coastal waters have been left out of a new inquiry into threats facing the state's marine environment, the Victorian National Parks Association said today.
"The State Government's new marine investigation is far too narrow and only focuses on 11% of coastal waters already protected in marine reserves," said VNPA Marine and Coastal Project Officer Simon Branigan.
"This inquiry while a good starting point is only a drop in the ocean when considering the multitude of serious issues facing our unique marine environment.
"It appears the government has ignored almost half of the public submissions that called for the scope of the inquiry to include an assessment of the challenges and threats to the entire marine environment, not just marine protected areas.
"This decision flies in the face of findings earlier this year by the Victorian-Auditor General's Office, which recommended statewide policy and planning as the most effective way to manage environmental threats to our marine environment - a recommendation the government committed to.
"We hope the environment minister makes amends following the next phase of the consultation process and expands the scope of the inquiry to include all of Victoria's marine waters."
Victoria's marine environment is one of the most diverse in the world, rivalling the Great Barrier Reef in uniqueness - but it is coming under increasing pressure.
"For its size Victoria has an incredible range of habitats including colourful deep sponge gardens, sea grass meadows, reefs and kelp forests, which are home to an array of protected species such as whales, seals, blue gropers and migratory birds," Mr Branigan said.
"This unique underwater world is facing mounting threats. The growing impacts of climate change are formidable enough challenges on their own, but they are being further compounded by the invasion of pest species, overfishing and pollution.
"There are more than 350 scientific and social studies published worldwide on marine parks that show the outstanding benefits from both an environmental and economic perspective.
"The best way to maximise taxpayer money and community time is to assess 100% of the marine environment, not just 11%. A full marine investigation would be a win for Victorians and the environment."
The inquiry will be carried out by the Victorian Environmental Assessment Council, the independent body responsible for giving strategic natural resource management advice to the government.
For comment
- Simon Branigan, VNPA Marine & Coastal Project Officer - 0409 087 278.
Victorian Government statement on marine inquiry terms of reference VNPA submission to the draft Terms of Reference Consultation process Marine FAQ sheet