environmental protection and economic sustainability for Western Port Bay and its coastlines
The SOLUTION
the western port bay framework
Community concern for the bay is high and there is already broad support for a pathway forward for the bay to survive and thrive - through The Western Port Bay Framework.
The FRAMEWORK involves THREE PRACTICAL ACTIONS:
A whole-of-bay plan for Western Port Bay
Develop a whole-of-bay plan (specifically a marine spatial plan) for Western Port that brings competing interests and pressures together, identifies appropriate areas for different uses, and puts the bay’s values at the heart of decision-making.
A collaborative management Partnership
Bringing together Traditional Custodians, community representatives, government agencies, councils, local business and industries, fishing and recreational groups, to develop and deliver the plan.
A dedicated WESTERN PORT BAY fund
Committed annual resources to make sure the Western Port Bay framework successfully meets its objectives. Modelled on the Port Phillip Bay Fund it would directly restore the health of the bay.
image: Leafy Seadragon
Together we’ve created a community-backed, science-led solution to the challenges Western Port Bay faces.
We’ve set out clear steps to defend the bay from inappropriate development, pollution and climate change.
Our Western Port Bay Framework is backed by Traditional Custodians, tourism, local businesses and conservation groups.
Join us in sending waves of support for the decision-makers to adopt our bold plan now.
image: Penguin, James White
STRONG SUPPORT FOR THE FRAMEWORK
The Framework is not a proposal for a new government policy. Rather, it provides a pathway to deliver the existing Victorian Marine and Coastal Strategy - already committed too. Western Port Bay is the ideal location to deliver the state’s first marine spatial plan where community concern over the impacts of development, industry and the Victorian Renewable Energy Terminal (VRET) are high.
The Framework has broad support from Traditional Custodians, MPs, businesses, tourism operators, conservation groups and local community groups. It has been formally supported by the four Western Port Bay local councils.
This is a proactive, solutions-focused investment in the long-term health of one of Victoria’s most significant marine landscapes.
download the framework
Download the strategic framework for the future of Western Port Bay here.
Objectives
Perspectives and values of Traditional Custodians are at the forefront of the vision.
Collaborative systems across water and land bring together Traditional Custodians, community groups, and government agencies.
Transparent assessment of industrial proposals with genuine opportunities for community input.
Permanent legal protections against detrimental or degrading uses of the Bay and coastlines.
Inclusion of Western Port Bay’s cultural, recreational and conservation significance in future decision-making.
Comprehensive marine and coastal surveys to identify, assess and prioritise management of high conservation value areas, migratory birds, threatened plants and animals, and threatening processes.
Restoration of degraded marine and wetland habitats to create:
Resilience against climate change and other impacts
Revitalised habitats for important and threatened plants and animals
Climate mitigation through the protection and care of seagrasses, mangroves and saltmarsh
Improved sustainability of the economy that depends on a healthy living world.
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Benefits
Comprehensive environmental management, biodiversity conservation, research and monitoring of the Western Port environment.
Strengthened Traditional Custodian and community stewardship and governance.
Improved transparency for industry and government in understanding the benefits of rejecting inappropriate development proposals.
Cost-effective approach to managing Western Port by funding activities with positive tangible outcomes.
Strengthened environmental health and climate resilience by protecting biodiversity.
Improved tourism and recreational opportunities including fishing, especially where initiatives such as habitat restoration occur.
Show your support
Sign up to add your name to our Western Port Bay list and show your support for our suggested framework to ensure the future of our beloved bay.