Interim Management Arrangements - Ningaloo Marine Park (Commonwealth Waters)

Interim management arrangements for Ningaloo Marine Park (Commonwealth Waters) commenced on 3 July 2009 and will apply until the management plan for a new representative marine reserve system in the North-west region is in place.

Anyone intending to undertake certain activities in Ningaloo Marine Park (Commonwealth Waters) must apply for an approval from the Director of National Parks.

Under the interim management arrangements, activities that were allowed to take place in the park under the previous management plan 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 Ningaloo Marine Park (Commonwealth Waters) are required to apply for an approval.

Commercial vessel transit and recreational fishers will be covered by general approvals. Individual approvals will not be required for these activities.

What conditions are associated with the approval?

There are conditions associated with approvals to conduct activities within the park. These conditions place certain requirements on activities undertaken in the park. 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 Ningaloo Marine Park (Commonwealth Waters) please contact the Ningaloo Marine Park (Commonwealth Waters) Reserve Manager on (02) 6274 1111 or email mpa@environment.gov.au.