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Leading conservation groups have welcomed Labor’s Oceans and Marine Parks plan saying it will help improve the health of our oceans.
Darren Kindleysides, CEO of the Australian Marine Conservation Society (AMCS) said: “Australia is responsible for some of the world’s most important marine ecosystems, and their health is essential to our economy and way of life. But our oceans are in big trouble. Global heating, pollution and destructive industrial development are impacting the health of our marine life, fishing, and local communities. Protecting our oceans must be a top priority for all parties this election. Today’s announcement from Labor is a vital and promising package of measures.
“Completing the management plans for the world leading Christmas Island and Cocos (Keeling) Islands Marine Parks; carrying out timely and science based reviews of our national marine parks management plans including those for the south-east network and Sub-Antarctic islands; and the $4 million support for state and territory Governments for marine park management are welcomed and valuable initiatives,” said Mr Kindleysides.
“Global action on ocean conservation is essential at this critical time in our history. It is encouraging to see commitments to take a leadership role in international negotiations for a High Seas Treaty, more Antarctic marine protected areas, and on combating marine litter and microplastics.
“Protecting our marine habitats and wildlife brings benefits to all – our health, our wellbeing and our economy. We look forward to seeing more announcements from the parties this election and ensuring progress towards the protection of Australia’s magnificent oceans,” concluded Mr Kindleysides.