Dugong conservation in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park (Document No. 100471)

Abstract

This document outlines the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority's (GBRMPA) position on the conservation and management of the dugong in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park (Marine Park). Dugong populations are seriously depleted along the urban coast of the Great Barrier Reef, south of Cooktown. There is also evidence that unsustainable harvesting of dugongs appears to be occurring in the Torres Strait and may also be occurring in remote northern Cape York waters. Protection and recovery of the dugong requires a reduction in human threats to dugongs and their habitats. The GBRMPA is working with stakeholders and other Australian and Queensland government agencies to ensure that dugong populations are able to recover in the Marine Park and that dugong habitat is improved.