Dear Minister Plibersek,

I fully support the Australian Government’s plans for two crucial marine parks for the waters of Christmas and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands.

Christmas and Cocos (Keeling) Islands are uniquely Australian and globally significant – there’s nowhere like them on Earth. Located at the intersection between the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean, they are also global hotspots for species mixing– effectively evolution-in-action.

Healthy populations of ocean giants such as oceanic sharks, billfish and tunas abound in these waters, which also provide part of the only known breeding grounds for critically endangered southern bluefin tuna.

The Islands are recognised as globally significant standout natural wonders with strong and thriving local communities. The island communities have a rich heritage and unique way of life, grown from the islands’ diverse mix of cultures, history and industry. Healthy oceans and sustainable fishing are central to the local communities’ way of life, their culture and their livelihoods.

It’s essential that the government embraces and respects the aspirations of these island communities, and continues to work collaboratively with them to co-design the management plans for these new marine parks.

Creating world-class marine parks for this region will provide crucial protection for a wealth of marine life, make a significant global contribution to the health of our oceans and support the local communities’ culture and aspirations.

Now, with your leadership, we encourage you to continue working with the island communities to create the management plans to help preserve this unique part of Australia, for our marine life and future generations.

Yours Sincerely,