Environment and Communications References Committee

Maria Kovacic

At the request of Senator Cadell, I move:

That the following matter be referred to the Environment and Communications References Committee for inquiry and report by 31 March 2027:

The design and implementation of Commonwealth marine spatial planning and protection, with particular reference to:

(a) the scientific, environmental, social and economic basis for the Government's commitment to place 30% of Australia's marine environment in highly protected areas by 2030, including how the target is defined, applied and measured;

(b) the preparation of 6 new management plans covering 44 Australian marine parks and proposed changes affecting the Norfolk, Lord Howe and Gifford marine parks;

(c) the adequacy and transparency of consultation, First Nations engagement, scientific evidence, spatial modelling and economic analysis, including relevant findings from the Futures of Seafood project;

(d) whether existing and proposed marine park zoning delivers measurable biodiversity, habitat and fisheries outcomes, supported by effective monitoring, enforcement and review;

(e) the cumulative effects of marine parks, offshore energy development and other marine uses on First Nations, commercial and recreational fishing, seafood production and supply chains, fishing displacement and regional communities;

(f) the respective roles of highly protected areas, fisheries management, sustainable-use zoning, targeted habitat protection and other effective area based conservation measures;

(g) international approaches to balancing marine conservation, sustainable seafood production and access to marine resources;

(h) options to improve the design, implementation, transparency and periodic review of Commonwealth marine protection commitments; and

(i) any related matters.

Sue Lines

The question is that business of the Senate notice of motion No. 3, standing in the name of Senator Cadell, be agreed to.