Public Comment Sought On Whale Shark Management Program

• Review will ensure balance between tourism and conservation is maintained
• Program focuses on managing whale shark interactions within Ningaloo Marine Park
• Eight-week public comment period open until 21 December
• Cook Labor Government committed to protecting our wildlife and oceans

A review of how the State Government manages whale shark tourism and interaction in Ningaloo Marine Park is underway, with public comment now open on a draft management program.

Following a review of the 2013 Whale Shark Management Program, a revised draft program has been developed to guide whale shark management over the next decade and is now available for public comment.

The review of available literature and data on whale shark interaction tours in Ningaloo Marine Park indicates the industry is being managed sustainably and is of a world-class standard.

The draft program has been shaped through consultation with key stakeholders from the commercial tourism industry, conservation and science sectors, with feedback gathered through a questionnaire in mid-2024 and detailed one-on-one interviews.

The draft 2026 Whale Shark Management Program seeks to ensure whale shark interactions continue to be managed safely and sustainably, while supporting positive conservation outcomes for the species and a world-class visitor experience.

Known as the gentle giants of the sea, whale sharks are the world’s largest fish, Western Australia’s marine animal emblem, and are protected in Australian waters under Commonwealth and State legislation.

Ningaloo Marine Park is renowned worldwide for the seasonal aggregation of whale sharks, with more than 41,000 visitors to Ningaloo enjoying the experience of swimming with them on tours in 2025.

For more information and to make a submission to the review, visit: www.dbca.wa.gov.au/whalesharkdraft

As stated by the Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn:

“Ningaloo Marine Park is one of the few places in the world where people can experience whale sharks in their natural environment, creating an incredible wildlife encounter that attracts visitors from across Australia and around the world.

“This review will help ensure the management of whale shark interactions continues to be informed by the best available science, contemporary information and meaningful stakeholder consultation.

“Western Australia has built a world-class reputation for managing whale shark tourism sustainably, supported by best-practice standards that prioritise visitor safety, animal welfare and conservation outcomes.

“The revised management program will help maintain our State’s position as a destination of choice for this extraordinary nature-based tourism experience, while ensuring whale sharks remain protected for future generations to enjoy.”