Statement on appeal of Shark Control Program decision

The Federal Court has granted a stay of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal decision that caused the Shark Control Program within the boundaries of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park to be suspended.

Below is a statement from Acting Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Anthony Lynham:

I welcome the Federal Court’s decision today to grant a stay while an appeal is underway.

Shark Control Program equipment will be returned to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park from Saturday, weather permitting.

We will always put human life before sharks. We will not compromise human safety and will continue to support the Shark Control Program with its combination of shark nets and drum lines at 86 of Queensland’s most popular beaches.

Since the Shark Control Program started in 1962, there has only been one shark fatality at a shark control beach in Queensland.

The Queensland Government will continue to vigorously appeal the AAT decision.

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