Conservation Planning

Developing a NT Marine Protected Areas Strategy
NT Marine and Coastal Biodiversity Management Strategy

Developing a NT marine protected areas strategy

Cape Arnhem
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The Northern Territory is establishing a comprehensive, adequate and representative system of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to be a part of the National Representative System of Marine Protected Areas. In order to address national and international obligations and cater for unique Northern Territory circumstances, a stakeholder inclusive strategy for identifying, selecting, managing and monitoring a system of MPAs has been initiated.

The MPA strategy aims to recognise the unique and relatively pristine habitats of NT marine ecosystems, their strong socio-cultural associations and the prevalence of coastal Indigenous ownership and legal rights (e.g. Land Rights Act, Native Title Act, Sacred Site Act). It will also recognise the significant social, ecological, fisheries and economic benefits of establishing MPAs and the need for a science-based and participatory approach to MPA identification and selection involving all stakeholders.

The Marine Biodiversity Group is responsible for determining the necessary administrative/legislative framework, resources, programs and funding to implement a system of MPAs. This will be achieved through a four part strategy that includes close examination of baseline monitoring data and consultation with key stakeholder groups. The prevalence of coastal indigenous land ownership, traditional systems of saltwater management and legal rights make partnerships and consultation with indigenous organisations an important priority. It is intended that this collaboration will recognise and facilitate application of relevant local sea knowledge of Traditional Owners and local Indigenous communities and result in better marine protection and management for the benefit of all.

NT Marine and Coastal Biodiversity Management Strategy

Sunrise, Darwin Harbour
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Marine and coastal research, policy development and management have been hindered by the NT’s low population and lack of critical information on the nature and condition of the NT’s coastal and marine ecosystems. There has been little comprehensive habitat mapping within the NT’s coastal waters and very little is known of the distribution and abundance of marine groups within these habitats. Implementation of improved management has also been limited by the availability of clear policies and frameworks setting out government priorities and the lack of resources available to indigenous communities to engage in collaborative management and policy development.

This project, coordinated by the Marine Biodiversity Group, will review existing strategic, policy and technical documents relating to the NT's coastal and marine ecosystems, habitats and species. Key issues, actions, responsibilities, performance indicators and resources required for conservation management will be prioritised. Conservation and threat assessment for each coastal and marine habitat/species group will enable prioritisation of conservation management issues. Strategic, policy and technical issues and proposed actions will also be outlined.

Stakeholders and community members will be involved in assessing and prioritising management actions through a series of technical workshops and regional community meetings. A targeted education program will also be developed to raise awareness of the threats facing the NT's coastal and marine biodiversity.

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Marine Biodiversity

Conservation Planning

Developing a NT marine protected areas strategy

NT Marine and Coastal Biodiversity Management Strategy