The Taskforce was established in July 2022 under the Environmental Protection Act 1986 as the coordinating body to assist the State Government’s consideration of strategic issues relating to Exmouth Gulf. This was part of Government’s response to the Environmental Protection Authority’s (EPA) advice to the Minister for the Environment.
Frequently Asked Questions – Exmouth Gulf Taskforce Final Report
Show moreWhen did the Exmouth Gulf Taskforce provide its final advice?
The Taskforce submitted its final advice to the Minister for Environment in June 2025, fulfilling its Terms of Reference. This advice complements the Exmouth Gulf Taskforce interim report, published in May 2024. The Taskforce also provided a knowledge review report, updating key information gaps.
What are the recommendations in the Final Report?
A key recommendation of the Taskforce is establishing a whole-of-Gulf marine park, to be jointly managed with the Nganhurra Thanardi Garrbu Aboriginal Corporation (NTGAC).
Key recommendations from the Final Report build upon those from the Interim Report, and include:
1. Support local, State and Commonwealth complementary protection mechanisms in conjunction with Traditional Owners to enhance respect for Country and connectivity, balance and harmony for the Gulf.
2. Enhance the protection of the Cape Range Subterranean Waterways.
3. Establish an ongoing State of Exmouth Gulf reporting framework.
4. Establish a sustainably funded independent coordinating body.
5. Ensure the Nganhurra Thanardi Garrbu Aboriginal Corporation are sustainably funded to be empowered and have capacity for their aspirations for self‑determination, stewardship of Country and a pathway for co‑leadership in a future coordinating body for Exmouth Gulf and surrounds.
Was there consultation during the development of the Final Report?
The Taskforce Final Report is the product of extensive consultation with Traditional Owners, industry, environmental groups, government agencies and the wider community over the past three years. The Taskforce heard from a wide range of subject matter experts and undertook community forums to obtain input for their considerations for the final report.
What are the next steps and timing to create a new Exmouth Gulf Marine Park?
The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions and the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development will work in partnership with the Nganhurra Thanardi Garrbu Traditional Owner as the proposed joint management partners to finalise the planning process and begin discussions about proposed management arrangements for the Gulf.
What are the next steps?
The Taskforce’s final meeting was held in May 2025. The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation will now provide advice to the Minister for the Environment regarding implementing recommendations in the Taskforce’s Final Report. The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions will commence the marine park planning process.
Where can I find more information?
Visit the Exmouth Gulf marine park website.
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