Marine Parks
Western Australia’s spectacular 13,500km coastline supports some of the world’s most remarkable marine ecosystems that sustain both our natural heritage and the livelihoods of thousands of Western Australians working in commercial fishing, pearling, and aquaculture.
Since 1987, Western Australia has progressively established 21 marine parks and reserves to protect these unique marine environments. Managed by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA), these protected areas aim to conserve marine biodiversity while maintaining opportunities for people to connect with and learn about our spectacular marine life.
Why Marine Parks Matter to Our Industry
For WAFIC and the commercial fishing sector, marine parks represent both opportunity and challenge. When designed thoughtfully with industry input, marine parks can:
- Support long-term sustainability by protecting critical breeding and nursery areas that ensure healthy fish stocks for future generations
- Demonstrate industry commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible resource management
- Provide certainty for commercial operators through clear, science-based management frameworks
However, marine park planning must balance conservation goals with the economic reality that coastal communities depend on sustainable access to marine resources. WAFIC actively participates in marine park planning processes to ensure:
- Commercial fishing interests are represented in decision-making processes
- Access arrangements are practical and based on sound scientific evidence
- Compensation mechanisms are fair when fishing access is restricted
- Management plans reflect the industry’s proven track record of sustainable practices
Our Collaborative Approach
WAFIC believes the best marine park outcomes emerge from genuine consultation between government, conservation groups, recreational users, and commercial operators. By working together, we can protect Western Australia’s marine treasures while maintaining the sustainable industries that help feed our communities and support our economy. Find out more about Marine Parks here: