South-east Marine Parks Network Management Plan 2023-2033

There is only one overriding plan for all the AMPs in the SE , with the 'state of knowledge ' now available highlighting the values and differences in each park, a 'management statement', which can be reviewed on a regular basis for each Park would be worth considering. There are very few sanctuary zones or national parks zones. After 10 years of research and mapping, the scientific knowledge has grown enormously and hopefully will be a basis for extending protection and no take areas. In particular the Bass Straight AMPs are currently all 'multiple use zones'.

As it stands the current management plan allows oil and gas exploration in most zones (all in Bass straight) . With the importance of the 'Bonney upwelling' to the migration and nursery grounds of southern Right and other whale species, and the 'state of knowledge' for these parks stating underwater noise as a key pressure - this should be considered in the review. The importance and value of the 'Bonney upwelling' to so many species , (including seabirds, seals, penguins) seems to have been missed in the current management plan and should be considered in the review.

OIL GAS or MINING
It is of concern that with current zoning these activities are allowed in nearly all of the Parks. In all the Bass Straight Parks 'state of Knowledge' statements it says underwater noise is a key pressure. With emerging scientific research the effects of seismic exploration and drilling on many species is becoming understood. (in particular the effects on rock lobster larvae and whale orientation as well as effects on plankton and other important food sources for many species).
RENEWABLE ENERGY
this emerging 'industry' needs to be included in the next management plan. With potential wave and wind energy sources developing rapidly it is important for this to be addressed , particularly noting the effect it may have on migratory bird and mammal species.
STRUCTURES and WORKS
the effect of these on the MPAs needs to be addressed in the management plan - especially in regards to oil and gas drilling and extraction and the possibility of wind turbines and structures required for wave energy, also taking into account what happens to them when they are decommissioned.

are current permits valid during review phase of the management plan or put on hold in case the activity allowed (for which permit has been given) is to be excluded in the new plan?

Strategy 5 - Promote community understanding of, and stakeholder participation in, the management of the marine reserves network.
I think this needs rethinking. The value, and even the existence, of SEMPs needs to be 'broadcast' to the general community. The value and significance of the area SEMPs cover ,is extraordinary. The Bonney upwelling, the uniqueness of Bass Straight marine species, the sea mounts off Tasmania! Macquarie Island !! what an opportunity for Australia to protect and conserve these few remaining, global marine treasures. Understanding is the greatest management tool available . I feel the way the current strategy is worded should be reconsidered. Rather than focusing on raising the awareness of 'stakeholders' and 'users' , i feel the any 'awareness raising' should be targeted to the whole community . The majority of the general public are not stakeholders or users of such places as the Arctic or Antarctic but most understand the value of, and need to conserve these areas .
Perhaps becoming involved in Ocean Literacy programs , marrying on to existing State programs , university courses etc would help raise awareness of SEMPs leading onto support for them ,increased resources and more effective management.

More Sanctuary zones and Marine National Park zones are absolutely required to preserve and protect these extraordinary habitats. More focus on protecting these areas for their 'own sake' rather than focusing on effects on 'human' extractive activities, economics and politics.