The objects of this Act, consisting of 257 sections divided into sixteen Parts, are: a) to ensure the ecological sustainability of the State’s aquatic resources and aquatic ecosystems for the benefit of present and future generations; and b) to ensure that the State’s aquatic resources are managed, developed and used having regard to the economic, social and other benefits that the aquatic resources may provide. The objects of this Act are to be achieved in particular by: a) conserving and protecting aquatic resources and aquatic ecosystems and where necessary, restoring aquatic ecosystems; b) managing aquatic resources and aquatic ecosystems on the basis of relevant scientific data and principles; c) encouraging the sustainable development of fishing, aquaculture and other activities reliant on aquatic resources; d) encouraging members of the public to actively participate in decisions about the management and conservation of aquatic resources and aquatic ecosystems; e) ensuring that the interests of different sectors of the community that use aquatic resources or aquatic ecosystems are identified and considered; and f) managing aquatic resources and aquatic ecosystems in a manner that is as practical, efficient and cost effective as possible.
Australia · 2016-11-29