New report cards make Vasse Wonnerup wetland science accessible

• Digital report cards will track health of internationally significant wetlands
• Ongoing monitoring supports long‑term protection of the Vasse‑Wonnerup system
• Cook Labor Government working with scientists and community to improve wetland health
• Part of Cook Labor Government's efforts to provide quality services as well as protect and restore Western Australia's environment

The Cook Labor Government will make tracking the health of Busselton's Vasse Wonnerup wetlands easier through the release of new Indicator Program Report Cards.

The report cards will present the findings of long‑term ecological monitoring in a clear and accessible way, summarising performance across a range of key environmental indicators.

Updated annually, the report cards will ensure the community, scientists and decision‑makers can track changes in wetland conditions over time as new results become available.

The Vasse Wonnerup wetlands are listed as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention and are highly valued for their environmental, cultural and recreational importance.

The report cards will draw on spring and summer monitoring of water quality, aquatic plants, macroinvertebrates, fish and waterbirds.

The program translates complex scientific data into clear grades to support informed decision‑making and community understanding. It is delivered in partnership by the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation, the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Murdoch University and Edith Cowan University.

The initiative is funded through the Revitalising Geographe Waterways and Healthy Estuaries WA programs, reflecting the Cook Labor Government's priority of protecting and restoring Western Australia's environment.

Report cards will be found at the Revitalising Geographe Waterways website.

Comments attributed to Water and Climate Resilience Minister Don Punch:

"The Vasse Wonnerup wetlands are one of Western Australia's most significant wetland systems and are deeply valued by the Busselton community.

"The Cook Labor Government is making it easier for the community to see how these wetlands are tracking through clear, annually updated report cards.

"By turning complex science into accessible information, we are building understanding and shared responsibility for protecting this important environment.

"This long‑term monitoring gives us the evidence to respond to challenges like declining water quality and climate change.

"By working closely with scientists, local government and the community, the Cook Labor Government is supporting transparent, science‑based water management and improving the health of Western Australia's waterways."