The Keep Top End Coasts Healthy alliance has today revealed the major party commitments to protecting the coast - declaring a win for the Territory’s marine life, fishing and the Top End lifestyle.
Adele Pedder, Director of the alliance said “Thanks to people power, all parties have committed to implementing the Territory-wide Plan* to safeguard our coasts and fishing lifestyle in the next term of government.
“This is an incredible outcome for the future of our coasts and testament to the huge community support for strong action this election.
“Our coasts are the heart of our Top End lifestyle. They contribute $2billion to the Territory economy every year supporting more than 6,000 jobs. But their health is under threat. Our fishing in places like Darwin Harbour is not as good as it used to be. Mangroves are being destroyed, our rivers threatened by dams, and pollution is damaging our Harbour.
“This election, our politicians have heard loud and clear that Territorians want action to protect their coasts. It’s no surprise that recent polling found that the vast majority of Territorians (74%) want the next NT Government to do more to protect the health of our coasts.**
“Protecting our coasts requires strong action and adequate funding. For the first time Top End coasts have bi-partisan support for their protection into the future.
“The winner this election is the Top End’s coasts”, declared Ms Pedder.
*The NT Coastal and Marine Management Strategy here.
**NT polling report can be viewed here.
For more information on the party positions.
Media contact: Adele Pedder 0422 108 539