The Federal Government is working with the Queensland government and all agencies to ensure effective shark protection measures are in place along the Queensland Coast.
I have spoken with the Queensland Fisheries Minister today about all options available and the importance of protecting human life as the over-riding priority.
There are both immediate and long term priorities for both governments. Legislative change at a Federal Level will be considered for the medium to long term but there are also actions that the Queensland Government can explore and put in place now.
The protection of human life is our priority and will remain so, regardless of yesterday’s Court decision to uphold an Australian Appeals Tribunal Decision against the Queensland Government’s current drum-line program.
There is no question of the need to ensure that people are protected and that those visiting the Great Barrier Reef can feel confident in the measures that are in place.
The Federally funded Great Barrier Marine Park Authority had approved the existing drum-line program and was a party to Queensland’s case.
It is reviewing the decision and all possible measures that can be taken.
I have today spoken to the Queensland Government to urge them to work cooperatively on this issue and address immediate steps that can be taken.
