Interim Management Arrangements – Ashmore Reef and Cartier Island marine reserves

Activities undertaken in Ashmore Reef National Nature Reserve (Ashmore) and Cartier Island Marine Reserve (Cartier) are regulated under the Ashmore Reef National Nature Reserve and Cartier Island Marine Reserve Management Plan. This management plan expired on 25 June 2009. Until a new management plan is in place, interim management arrangements will apply.

After 25 June 2009 all people intending to undertake certain activities in these reserves must apply for an approval from the Director of National Parks.
Under the interim management arrangements activities that are allowed to take place in the reserves will remain unchanged (see Activity Table).

What is an approval?

An approval is a legal instrument under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (1999) that allows activities to occur in a Commonwealth marine reserve in the absence of a management plan for that reserve. The approval is issued by the Director of National Parks, or his delegate, who has statutory responsibility for the management of all Commonwealth reserves.

Who needs an approval?

All commercial tour operators and researchers who wish to operate within the reserves are required to apply for an approval.

Recreational fishing (for finfish for immediate consumption only) in the open area of Ashmore is covered by a general approval. An individual approval is not required for this activity.

What conditions are associated with the approval?

There are conditions associated with approvals to conduct activities within the reserves. These conditions place certain requirements on activities undertaken in the reserves. Failure to adhere to these conditions may result in variation or revocation of approvals.

How do you apply for an approval?

To apply for an approval to conduct activities within the reserves contact the Ashmore Reserve Manager on (02) 6274 1111 or email mpa@environment.gov.au.