National environmental law currently lists the southern right whale (Eubalaena australis) as Endangered. This new plan sets out the activities required to protect and recover the species.
In the past, species population numbers have been severely impacted by commercial whaling. Current threats include:
- climate change
- entanglement in fishing and aquaculture equipment
- habit loss or degradation from coastal and offshore development
- prey depletion
- underwater noise caused by humans.
Recovery actions outlined in the plan include:
- improving and continuing existing national and state laws to minimize threats
- improving the capability of First Nations people, research, and general community groups
- developing guidelines for the management of noise caused by humans.
The southern right whale is iconic to Australia and culturally significant to First Nations people. They migrate annually along the Australian coast, occupying shallow coastal areas. It is here they calve and nurse their young.
The plan has been developed in close consultation with:
- Commonwealth and state government agencies
- species experts
- industry representatives
- conservation managers
- the broader public.
The plan has been made jointly with the South Australian, Victorian, Tasmanian, Queensland and Western Australian governments. The Australian government will continue to work with these partners to give the species the best chance at long-term survival.
