Protecting our marine life… can WA be a global leader?

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Western Australia's vast marine environment, encompassing 40 percent of Australia's coastline and stretching almost 13,000km, is home to a staggering abundance of life.

Ranging from delicate sponge gardens and kelp beds along the south coast, to world-class coral reefs such as Ningaloo in the north, this spectacular environment is considered one of the most unique and diverse on the planet.

Globally the marine environment is in serious trouble. Entire ecosystems are being destroyed, as food chains collapse and whole populations of marine life such as turtles, dolphins and fish are decimated.

Unfortunately, under the current marine parks system, less than two percent of WA's waters are protected against destructive activities. With the pressures facing our marine environment, this is nowhere near enough.

Coral. Photo courtesy of www.exmouthdiving.net

To ensure that WA's diverse marine environment is protected for current and future generations, samples of the plant and animal communities need to be protected in Marine National Parks.

In Marine National Parks, people can enjoy swimming, surfing, diving and sailing activities, but all marine life is protected from extractive activities.

We must not let our extraordinary coastal waters become another statistic in the global marine collapse.

Contact the Premier today!

The State Government has a responsibility to ensure the protection of WA's marine life, and to act now before it's too late. Email the Premier directly here (cc. Opposition leader) and ask him to protect WA's marine life in Marine National Parks.

To get involved in the many activities of the WA Marine campaign, call us at the campaign centre on 08 9420 7255 or email the Community Campaign Manager at rebecca.hubbard@wilderness.org.au