Activities in marine parks
How do marine parks affect commercial and recreational fishing?
All fishing activities within a marine park are regulated by the zoning and operational plans for the park. These plans are developed in full consultation with all interest groups, and the community in general.
Is aquaculture allowed in marine parks?
Aquaculture is permitted where it can be demonstrated that the activity is environmentally sustainable and does not impact adversely on the marine park environment or its flora and fauna.
The zoning plan for each park, and the consultation process involved in its development, determine where and when aquaculture (and any other similar activities) should be permitted.
Are tourist-related activities, such as whale watching and charter fishing, permitted in marine parks?
Tourist-related activities are permitted although, as is the case with any activities within marine parks, they need to be environmentally sustainable. The zoning plan for each park determines how and where such activities are accommodated.
It is likely that some controls will be introduced, requiring tour operators to keep careful records of numbers of tourists and their activities, including the numbers of fish caught. It is possible that it may become necessary at some stage to limit the numbers of commercial tour operators in a particular park.
Any long-term controls would be discussed with the relevant interest groups, and with the local advisory committee, before implementation.
Is mining or mineral exploration allowed in marine parks?
While mining is an important contributor to the economy, it is not a suitable activity for marine parks. Neither mining nor mineral exploration will be permitted.
Can I still drive on the beach? Can I still walk my dog?
Walking dogs and driving on the beach are popular and enjoyable activities. They may be appropriate in some areas of marine parks, but not in others. In especially sensitive areas, there may need to be some restrictions.
All activities, including beach driving and dog walking, are regulated by the zoning and operational plans for the marine park. These plans are be developed in full consultation with the community.
Will I have to pay to get in?
There are no entry fees for any marine parks. The Marine Parks Authority may levy fees for particular uses, including commercial uses.
What about activities occurring adjacent to the marine parks?
The successful operation of marine parks depends largely upon the ability of the relevant ministers, the Marine Parks Authority, and the park managers to ensure that all activities within the marine park are sustainable. It is therefore essential for developers and consent authorities to consider the objectives of the marine park and the relevant zoning plans in any planned development.
The most effective way of ensuring compliance in the planning process is for such matters to be referred to the ministers responsible for marine parks to obtain their approval or concurrence prior to any development proceeding. The requirement applies to both Part 4 and Part 5 developments under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.