The South Australian Government has launched a public consultation period regarding the expansion of the Southern Kangaroo Island Marine Park. This initiative, aimed at enhancing the protection of a key portion of the state’s coastline, will continue to take public submissions until December 13th 2024.
The Southern Kangaroo Island Marine Park and Seal Bay Sanctuary Zone, established initially in 2012, covers extensive marine habitats that include deep-water reefs, cliffs, and rocky headlands. The proposed expansion project seeks to strengthen the conservation of vital breeding grounds for Australian sea lions and improve overall marine biodiversity.
The proposed changes would see the marine park grow by 15 square kilometres, resulting in a total area of 688 square kilometres. Similarly, the more protected Seal Bay Sanctuary Zone will expand by 18 square kilometres to cover 95 square kilometres. This zoning adjustment is designed to provide a secure environment for marine life while preserving opportunities for shore based fishing through a designated ‘special purpose area’.
Marine parks serve as safeguarded regions of marine biodiversity. They help maintain the health of ocean ecosystems and cultural values while supporting sustainable recreational and commercial activities. Sanctuary zones, as highly protected areas within marine parks, play a crucial role by completely prohibiting fishing to conserve essential habitats and breeding sites.
Susan Close MP, the Acting Premier and Minister for Climate, Environment and Water, spoke about the dual importance of enjoyment and protection of these natural areas. “Sanctuary zones are biodiversity hotspots of the seas and while we want people to enjoy these areas, we need them to remember that all the plants and animals within them are protected,” Close remarked.
She further stated the ongoing commitment to fisheries’ sustainability. “About 6 per cent of South Australian waters have been designated as sanctuary zones, which means the remaining 94 per cent of the sea is still available for fishing. It is vital that we maintain our fisheries for future generations and marine parks and sanctuary zones are an important part of this.”
To gather comprehensive feedback, the Department of Environment and Water is conducting discussions with key stakeholders. These include representatives from marine industries like the rock lobster and abalone sectors, RecFish SA, and relevant conservation and local government bodies such as the Kangaroo Island Council, the Conservation Council, and the Wilderness Society.
Public contributions to this consultation process are intended to play a significant role in finalising the decisions regarding the boundaries and regulations of the Southern Kangaroo Island Marine Park and the Seal Bay Sanctuary Zone.
Have your say at https://yoursay.sa.gov.au/southern-ki-marine-park
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