The basics

What is a marine park?

A marine park is a zoned area of the ocean where marine habitats, and the plants and animals that live in those habitats, can be conserved and protected. In many ways, a marine park is similar to a national park on the land, although marine parks allow for a wider range of uses.

In South Australia, how a marine park gets used will be determined by a system of zones. This system will provide the environmental protection needed but still allow for a range of recreational and commercial activities.

Why do we need marine parks in South Australia?

Southern Australia's marine and coastal environments are internationally recognised for their biological diversity. Most of the plants, fish and other animals in our waters are found nowhere else. As our population grows, more people live on the coast and marine resources are in increasing demand. This puts pressure on the marine environment.

We must take steps to protect the health of whole marine ecosystems, not just particular species. It is much wiser to protect now than to attempt to restore later.

Marine parks are internationally recognised as the best tool to protect marine environments whilst allowing for a range of recreational and commercial activities. The role of our marine parks is conserving biodiversity not managing fisheries.

We are the custodians of this precious natural inheritance. We have a responsibility to manage our use of the marine environment wisely.

How will this work?

When management planning is complete in 2012, marine parks in South Australia will be zoned for multiple-uses. This means that most activities, such as recreational and commercial fishing, will still be allowed in most areas.

There will be some small sanctuary and restricted access zones in each marine park where fishing will not be allowed in the interests of conservation.

Marine parks will be zoned in a way that achieves a sensible balance of conservation, commerce and community use. Wherever possible, every effort is being made to accommodate existing uses.

Can I still fish in a marine park?

The majority of waters in each marine park will still be available for a wide range of commercial and recreational activities, including fishing and boating.

Fishing from jetties, breakwaters and popular beaches inside marine parks will not be affected.