The NSW Government has lifted a moratorium on reviewing marine park zoning plans and altering sanctuary zones as part of the first step in the new management of the State’s marine estate.
Minister for Primary Industries Katrina Hodgkinson said the passing of the Marine Parks Amendment (Moratorium) Bill 2013 through the NSW Parliament this week was a significant milestone.
“Importantly we will now be able to commence working with the community to prepare for the review of management arrangements for the entire marine estate, and analyse the types of zones used in marine parks and how they are applied,” Ms Hodgkinson said.
In line with the Government’s response to the Independent Scientific Audit of Marine Parks in NSW, the new approach to managing the entire NSW marine estate will ensure that future decisions will be evidence based, incorporating analysis of threats and risks, social ecological, and economic evaluation and expert, stakeholder and community input.
Minister for the Environment Robyn Parker said the marine parks are focused on conserving biodiversity and supporting many activities important to the people of NSW and industry.
“These areas are a drawcard for tourism, research, diving, and fishing, and the unique waters of the Lord Howe Island Marine Park are part of an internationally recognised World Heritage site,” Ms Parker said.
Ms Hodgkinson said the system of six marine parks is one component of the NSW marine estate, covering about 345,000 hectares or almost 35 per cent of the NSW marine jurisdiction, including six per cent currently in sanctuary zones.
“The moratorium on declaration of new marine parks will remain in place until further advice on this issue is received from the Marine Estate Expert Knowledge Panel,” Ms Hodgkinson said.
“There are many facets to managing a marine park, lifting these parts of the moratorium will allow us to move toward a more transparent and effective planning process for each park.
“The new consultative, evidence based approach is underpinned by a threat and risk assessment that will allow us to better identify and address risks to the many values that our marine parks hold.”
Ms Parker said there will soon be calls for nominations for members of each of the six marine park advisory committees, which will provide critical local community input and advice as reforms progress.
This announcement follows important initiatives already undertaken, including the establishment of the Marine Estate Management Authority, appointment of a Marine Estate Expert Knowledge Panel, and the amnesty regarding recreational line fishing from beaches and headlands in sanctuary zones.
For more information visit www.marine.nsw.gov.au
