Shaping and protecting Australia’s ocean for the future

The Director of National Parks is preparing to draft new management plans for 44 Australian Marine Parks and expand and strengthen protection at Lord Howe and Norfolk marine parks.

Six new management plans are proposed to replace the 5 plans for the Temperate East, South-west, North-west and North marine park networks as well as the Coral Sea Marine Park, which expire in 2028, and include a new Norfolk Island Marine Park management plan.

These plans protect 2.37 million square kilometres of ocean – an area larger than Queensland and New South Wales combined, and home to unique marine life.

Consultation on preparation of the new plans and expansions at Lord Howe and Norfolk marine parks is now open, with Australians invited to provide comment to help shape the future of Australia's ocean.

The proposed changes include a boundary expansion for Norfolk and Lord Howe marine parks and strengthened protection, including incorporating Gifford Marine Park into Lord Howe Marine Park.

Comments on the preparation of new management plans, and the proposed changes to Norfolk and Lord Howe marine parks, can be submitted until 4pm AEST 30 September 2026 through the Have Your Say portal.

Members of the public are encouraged to consider the findings of the independent evaluations of the 2018-2028 management plans when preparing submissions.

Comments received during the consultation period will inform preparation of the draft management plans, which are expected to be released for public consultation in 2027. The seafood industry will be consulted about possible fishing business assistance measures ahead of the release of the draft plans.

The Australian Government is also continuing to support engagement in the conservation of Australian Marine Parks with the announcement of a further $5.6 million in grant funding.

Grants of between $50,000 and $500,000 are available to fund eligible projects will that provide opportunities for First Nations peoples, regional communities, scientists, fishers and other marine park users to undertake activities that enhance the understanding, protection, and sustainability of marine parks.

Funding supports collaborative efforts that protect biodiversity, enhance ecosystem health, and strengthen culturally informed stewardship of our marine environment.

The grants program has supported 91 projects since 2018, providing $28.2 million in funding and attracting a further $30 million in partner contributions.

Applications for Our Marine Parks Grants open on 13 August and close on 27 October 2026.

Here's more information on how to apply for a grant.