I congratulate the Gunner Government on its commitment to develop a Marine and Coastal Management Strategy, and welcome the release of its Discussion Paper on the suggested goal and management principles, the specific objectives and the desired outcomes. This is an opportunity for all Territorians to have our say on how to ensure a healthy future for the Top End’s coasts and our lifestyle and livelihoods that rely on them.

It is critical that this Discussion Paper is seen as a starting point, an opportunity for Territorians to make it clear to the Government the outcomes the community want to see as a result of this process.

The Northern Territory coast and marine environment is truly special, for unique marine wildlife, its iconic fishing, and for its strong cultural connections for Indigenous Territorians. Our coastline is in relatively good shape, but it is facing increasing threats evidenced by the recent large-scale mangrove dieback, pollution, and that the fishing isn’t as good as it used to be in places.

Right along the coastline, across sectors and communities, Territorians are seeing the pressures mounting and want more to be done. We need measures that not only manage threats, but that also take a proactive approach to securing the future of our coasts. I would like your government to build on the work of stakeholders and the community, and deliver a suite of Territory style solutions. These should include Seacountry Indigenous Protected Areas, recreational fishing areas and national parks in the sea. Importantly, our tropical rivers must continue to flow and our precious seagrass meadows safeguarded from the threat of seabed mining.

This Coastal and Marine Management Strategy presents an opportunity for Government, stakeholders and the community to set our Northern Territory waters up for the future through application of enduring solutions. Without this proper protection and management, the Top End coasts and seas are at risk.

Please count this as my submission to the Coastal and Marine Management Strategy consultation.

I look forward to your response and to working with you to develop a plan that delivers the protection and management that our Top End coasts need in order to secure their future.