The Minns Labor Government has ruled out any expansion of cruise ship tourism in Jervis Bay Marine Park, to ensure the protection of the park's important natural and social values.
Minister for the Environment, Penny Sharpe has joined Member for the South Coast, Liza Butler in Huskisson to meet members of the community who have campaigned to protect Jervis Bay Marine Park and its fragile marine environment from cruise ship visitation.
The former Liberal-National government planned to open the door to cruise ships anchoring and potentially tendering to shore in the Jervis Bay Marine Park.
The NSW Government has now confirmed this will not happen.
South coast community members and environmental groups voiced serious concerns about potential impacts on water quality, habitats, aquaculture and social values. This issue also received considerable community feedback during the exhibition of the draft NSW Mainland Marine Park Network Management Plan.
Cruise ships will still be permitted to enter Jervis Bay in an emergency, subject to obtaining a marine park permit.
Other recommendations made in the draft NSW Mainland Marine Park Network Management Plan are still being considered. The Plan will be announced within months.
The NSW Government recognises and values the contribution a thriving cruise ship industry makes to regional economies and communities, however this must be balanced with protecting our marine biodiversity and local community values.
Quote attributable to Minister for the Environment, Penny Sharpe:
"Following strong advocacy from the south coast community, the NSW Government has made the decision to rule out any plans to make the Jervis Bay Marine Park a port for cruise ships.
"The risk of environmental damage is just too high, and we thank locals for their many years of campaigning to protect this marine wonder."
Quote attributable to Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty:
"The NSW Government recognises that Marine Parks are special areas, highly valued by the community.
"Cruise ships will be able to access Jervis Bay Marine Park in an emergency situation that enables the provision of a marine park permit. But we are drawing a line under the former government's plan of making it a regular cruise ship anchoring spot, which would have put the marine park at risk."
Quote attributable to the Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast, Ryan Park:
"The Illawarra is home to some of the most pristine natural environment, and I know how anxious our community has been over the prospects of cruise ships arriving in Jervis Bay Marine Park.
"I'm so pleased that this announcement provides certainty for this region."
Quote attributable to Member for the South Coast, Liza Butler:
"This is a win for south coast communities and the precious Jervis Bay Marine Park we are so proud of.
"We have listened to concerns about environmental and social impacts on Jervis Bay Marine Park and our region and will ensure this precious area is protected into the future."
