Remake and review of the Zoning Plan for the Moreton Bay Marine Park
The Queensland Government remade the zoning plan for the Moreton Bay Marine Park in 2019. The Marine Parks (Moreton Bay) Zoning Plan 2019 is subordinate legislation to the Marine Parks Act 2004 and replaces the previous Marine Parks (Moreton Bay) Zoning Plan 2008.
The commencement of the remade zoning plan completes phase 1 of the remake and review process, and allows existing marine park management arrangements to continue as we proceed with phase 2.
An overview of the process is outlined below:
Phase 1 (complete)
Zoning plan remake
- Administrative renewal of zoning plan
- Public notice
- Legislative drafting
- Commencement of remade zoning plan – 1 September 2019
Phase 2
Zoning plan review
Information gathering (stage 1)
- Gathering updated information on marine park values to assess the need for change – we are here
Draft revised zoning plan (stage 2)
- Draft zoning plan prepared, released and submissions analysed
Final revised zoning plan (stage 3)
- Legislative drafting
- Revised zoning plan takes effect
Phase 1 involved the statutory remake and renewal of the Marine Parks (Moreton Bay) Zoning Plan 2008 , without notable amendment, to ensure it did not expire placing the conservation and use values of the Moreton Bay Marine Park at risk. No changes were made to zones, designated areas or entry and use requirements. Administrative changes were made to improve clarity and to reflect contemporary legislative drafting standards. The remake process ensured the continuation of the existing management arrangements for the marine park while Phase 2 is undertaken.
The initial stage of Phase 2 has commenced. This stage of the review uses contemporary data and knowledge about the marine park’s natural and cultural values to assess the current zoning plan’s ability to conserve the marine environment and the various indigenous, recreational and commercial uses it supports for future generations.
If changes are required, a draft zoning plan will be prepared for broad public consultation. Feedback will help determine what changes are needed in a final revised zoning plan to support the long-term conservation and use of the marine park.
The renewal process will result in an updated zoning plan that will support the future management of the marine park based on available science and community input.
For more information email marine.policy@des.qld.gov.au.
Read more about the Moreton Bay Marine Park.