The State Government is progressing a new whole-of-government plan to better protect the Abrolhos Islands and create tourism opportunities.
The departments of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions and Primary Industries and Regional Development are looking at ways to address issues relating to visitor access, visitor risk and environmental impacts on the islands.
The departments and relevant ministers will develop proposals for the protection of conservation, fishing, tourism and heritage values while creating jobs and economic opportunities for the Mid-West region.
The McGowan Labor Government will also begin work on the creation of an Abrolhos Islands national park, an idea that was floated by the previous government but never funded.
Any future development opportunities on the islands will build upon the existing fishing industries, such as rock lobster fishery and the developing aquaculture industry.
The State Budget includes a $10 million allocation to progress plans for the islands.
Premier Mark McGowan visited Geraldton today to highlight the Government’s implementation of its Plan for Geraldton.
The State Budget included $80 million for infrastructure in the Mid-West, $6.5 million to renew the Geraldton Airport runway and $18.6 million to upgrade John Willcock Community College.
The McGowan Labor Government has also honoured its election commitment to install ‘shore tension units’ at Geraldton Port to assist productivity and potentially bring more cruise ships to the port.
Planning has commenced for upgrades to Geraldton Hospital. Funding for the project will be announced in subsequent budgets.