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Thursday, 9 February 2012
Page: 742

Marine Bioregional Planning Program

(Question No. 1494)

Senator Boswell asked the Minister representing the Minister for Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, upon notice, on 15 December 2011:

In regard to the Marine Bioregional Planning Program:

(1) What will the total cost be to patrol police and administer the Coral Sea marine park once it has been declared.

(2) Which government agencies will be responsible for monitoring any illegal fishing methods, such as drift nets, super seiners and long liners.

Senator Conroy: The Minister for Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question:

(1) The boundaries and zoning of the proposed Coral Sea Marine Reserve have not been finalised and are subject to further consideration as part of an extensive public consultation process. Costs for administering the reserve will be subject to the finalised reserve design and management requirements.

(2) The Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities has the lead role in compliance monitoring of marine reserves, with assistance from other Commonwealth agencies. Where appropriate and by agreement, State agencies may also be involved for specified compliance services. Monitoring arrangements for a Coral Sea Reserve are yet to be determined.