Joe Ludwig (Queensland, Australian Labor Party, Manager of Government Business in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

The government is committed to protecting our unique environment whilst strengthening communities across the country. The Coral Sea is an important national asset and is internationally recognised for its rich biodiversity and important heritage values. It is also home to a breathtaking coral reef, sandy cays and islands. The Coral Sea Conservation Zone was declared to provide interim protection of this area while it is being assessed as part of the national marine bioregional planning process. This process is based on science, detailed planning and extensive community consultation.

Public consultation on the east marine region, including temperate waters and the Coral Sea, will commence soon. The government understand there are different views in the community on this issue. We are committed to a transparent process that includes meaningful consultation with all stakeholders. This engagement is important. For that reason, we will not support this motion.