The Australia Institute is inviting politicians and candidates to show they are willing to listen to the science and pledge their support for protecting the critically endangered Maugean skate.
Several politicians and federal election candidates have publicly endorsed the petition, including:
Andrew Wilkie MP, Independent Member for Clark
Senator Nick McKim, Australian Greens
Peter George, Independent Candidate for Franklin
Adam Martin, Independent Candidate for Braddon
Owen Fitzgerald, Tasmanian Greens Candidate for Franklin
Australian actress Essie Davis will also be signing the open letter tomorrow.
They join more than 10,500 Australians who are urging the Environment Minister to respect the scientific evidence and act swiftly to remove salmon farms from Macquarie Harbour. Their support highlights the growing political and public consensus that the survival of the Maugean skate is critical.
At 10.30am, 31 January 2025 at Kangaroo Bay Parklands, Clarence Foreshore, Kangaroo Bay Dr, Rosny Park, a signing event will be held, where everyone across the political spectrum is welcome to pledge their support.
The skate has been around since the time of the dinosaurs and only lives in Macquarie Harbour. It's globally unique and recognised internationally as one of the natural values of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.
"Minister Plibersek can make the decision to prevent the extinction of Maugean skate in its only home and return the harbour's ecosystem to health," said Eloise Carr, Director, Australia Institute Tasmania.
"Our research shows that Australians support what the science is telling us we need to do: stop salmon farming in Macquarie Harbour.
"A majority of voters from across the political spectrum support this and we call on politicians and candidates to prove to Australians that they are willing to listen to scientific advice when making decisions."
