Marine bioregional plans

Marine bioregional plans have been developed for four of Australia\u27s marine regions - South-west, North-west, North and Temperate East. Marine Bioregional Plans will help improve the way decisions are made under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), particularly in relation to the protection of marine biodiversity and the sustainable use of our oceans and their resources by our marine-based industries. Purpose of marine bioregional plans Marine Bioregional Plans aim to strengthen the operation of the EPBC Act to help ensure that the marine environment remains healthy and resilient. The plans will be used by government and industry to improve the way the marine environment is managed and protected. Very little is known about Australia\u27s oceans compared to our terrestrial environment. Marine Bioregional Plans improve our understanding of Australia\u27s oceans by presenting a consolidated picture of the biophysical characteristics and diversity of marine life. They describe the marine environment and conservation values of each marine region, set out broad biodiversity objectives, identify regional priorities and outline strategies and actions to address these priorities. By bringing together scientific knowledge and information from many sources Marine Bioregional Plans will: Support strategic, consistent and informed decision-making under Commonwealth environment legislation in relation to Commonwealth marine areas. Support efficient administration of the EPBC Act to promote the ecologically sustainable use of the marine environment and its resources. Provide a framework for strategic intervention and investment by government to meet policy objectives and statutory responsibilities