One of the most majestic animal recovery stories ever recorded has been confirmed with the removal of the humpback whale from Australia's threatened Species list.
Minister for the Environment Sussan Ley said that while international protections remain firmly in place to prevent any form of whale hunting, the strength of the humpback whale population meant that the independent Threatened Species Scientific Committee no longer regarded them as endangered or vulnerable.
"This is not about removing safeguards for humpbacks, which are still a protected migratory species, but it is a recognition of the success of the outstanding conservation efforts that are in place," Minister Ley said.
"At the height of the global whaling industry there were as few as 1500 Humpback whales in Australian waters, today that population is believed to be as many as 40,000 individuals and growing.
"Australia is a world leader in whale conservation, and we will continue to work through the International Whaling Commission to promote whale conservation and maintain the global moratorium on commercial whaling.
"Our removal of the Humpback from the threatened species list is based on science and sends a clear signal about what can be achieved through coordinated action. It is a message of hope for the welfare of a number of species."
The decision to remove the Humpback whale from the threatened species list follows a public consultation process and detailed assessment by the independent Threatened Species Scientific Committee.
Fast facts:
• Humpback whales are found in all ocean basins worldwide and across this range there are multiple distinct populations.
• Two populations of Humpback whales breed in Australian waters and migrate along the east and west coasts annually from May to November.
• Studies have shown Australia's Humpback whale populations have been recovering at close to their maximum possible rate since the cessation of whaling.
• The Australian Government is investigating a long-term monitoring program for the Humpback whale to ensure the population remains stable into the future.
