Strategies and Policies

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Introduction

South Australia's unique coastal, estuarine and marine environments are a precious resource. Our marine and estuarine waters are some of the most biologically diverse in the world. They support activities such as fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, recreation, ports and harbours, and mining among others – all important to the South Australian economy. With more than 90% of South Australians living on or near the coast and so many people working on the coast or visiting it, we are in danger of 'loving it to death'. Our coastal waters are under pressure from development and overuse, pollution and the introduction of pest species. Strategic planning and integrated management are needed for the long-term conservation, development and productivity of these environments.

The Living Coast Strategy (700Kb PDF) sets out the policy directions that the State Government will be taking over the next five years to help protect and manage South Australia's coastal areas, estuaries and marine ecosystems.

South Australia's coastal, estuarine and marine programs are also shaped by a number of State and National strategies and policies, as well as International Agreements and Conventions.

These programs are implemented in partnership with the Coast Protection Board, Regional Natural Resources Management Boards, Local Government and Community and Industry.