THE Myall Lakes will benefit from the NSW Government’s $180 million commitment to fund projects that protect the state’s iconic coast and estuaries and support stronger coastal communities and industries.

The investment will cover the final six years of the ten-year Marine Estate Management Strategy in the 2022-23 Budget.

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Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead says the funding shows the Government’s desire to maintain one of our most significant natural resources and it will go a long way in the region.

“Our beaches and coastal waters are at the heart of the Myall Lakes, so we need to look after them for the good of our businesses and the recreational activities that we depend on,” Mr Bromhead said.

“We are so pleased that some of that money is going towards nine different projects within our community.

“These include a Coast Coastal Floodplain Study, Riverbank Vegetation Improvements, Riverbank Stabilisation, Coastal Wetland Rehabilitation, Improving Roads and Tracks, Cultural Economic Development, Ocean Trap and Line
Fishery Observer Survey, Strategies for Mitigating Species Interactions and Boating Now.

“Investing in these projects will enhance the biodiversity and beauty of our marine estate, so we can continue to enjoy it as a place for work and play long into the future.”

Treasurer Matt Kean said the new funding builds on the $105 million already committed to date.

“The value of the marine estate to the NSW economy is significant, contributing over $15 billion per annum and 2.5 percent of all employment in NSW,” Mr Kean said.

“A healthy and productive marine estate is critical to the state’s prosperity, which is why we have invested a record amount into the Strategy, which has already delivered strong outcomes.”

Minister for Agriculture Dugald Saunders said the funding will help coastal businesses recover from the effects of recent natural disasters, while boosting their productivity and strengthening regional employment.

“In NSW, 85 percent of people live within 50km of the coast, so it’s vital that we continue to repair and sustain it,” Mr Saunders said.

“The Marine Estate Management Strategy will address the main threats to our beautiful coastline through projects such as reef restoration, riverbank stabilisation, researching fertiliser use and ways to reduce sediment runoff from farms and reviewing jetty designs.

“These projects are helping to improve water quality by reducing pollution, ensuring our coastal habitats can thrive under the effects of climate change and increasing.

Aboriginal people’s role in protecting cultural values and managing Sea Country.

Minister for Environment James Griffin said the Government is making sure the marine estate is supported for generations to come.

“This investment will enable us to continue to protect and conserve our marine system, which is cherished by people right along the coast,” Mr Griffin said.

“A healthy community and economy needs a healthy ocean, and all of us have a role to play as responsible stewards of our oceans.”

For more information about the range of projects and key achievements within the Marine Estate Management Strategy, visit www.marine.nsw.gov.au/strategy-implementation.