Monday 27 August 2018

Momentum Building on Marine Protection Plan

BY XANTHE GREGORY

The NSW Government is moving forward with plans to create a protected Marine Zone from Newcastle to Wollongong.

In a bid to protect fish numbers and marine life, the move would see 25 sites across the east coast protected.

The state government is in the midst of a  'Have Your Say' process, ending on the 27th September and allowing for community members to speak up about the plans.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot Macdonald says the government wants to keep all parties happy and needs feedback on draft plans.

"This is really about getting the balance right," he said, "the environmental balance with commercial needs and recreational needs - so we do want to hear from people.

"There are 25 different marine zones being proposed on various levels, they could be sanctuaries, conservation zones or special purpose zones but it is about improving our marine biodiversity."

Have your say at marine.nsw.gov.au