Marine biosecurity in Western Australia has become a point of discussion and so the State Budget for 2011-12 has allocated additional funds for it. Commenting on this Fisheries Minister Norman Moore said $9.4million would give the department greater scope to manage WA’s aquatic biosecurity obligations during the next two years.
He further said that annual funding of $4.7million in 2011-12 and 2012-13 will lower the risk of marine pest incursions to industry and ports across the State. He added that this funding will aid frontline defences for WA’s aquatic resources by helping to maintain healthy marine and freshwater ecosystems that support sustainable fisheries.
Moore expressed that the amount of marine traffic around WA’s coast has grown strongly in recent times and boats and ships are recognised as a primary means of introducing or transporting marine pest organisms. He also said that the State Government will continue to invest in initiatives such as biosecurity to protect our marine and freshwater ecosystems and build the State by ensuring the fisheries industry remains strong.
