Oil spill risk assessment for the coastal waters of Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park

Abstract

This report is the culmination of a 12 month study conducted by Queensland Transport and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. The report examines in detail the risk profile for Queensland Coastal Waters and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park for serious marine oil spills from shipping. Risk assessment underpins the preparation and planning for marine oil spill preparedness and response within Queensland. This assessment provides a timely update to ensure Queensland’s strategy for protection of our pristine coastal waters and World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park maintains world’s best practice. The report is open for public comment at the same time as a review has been initiated by the Deputy Prime Minister into Great Barrier Reef Ship Safety and Pollution Prevention Initiatives. The report provides a valuable source of information to assist the review process but also contains issues and recommendations that lie outside the terms of reference of the review.