Glenn Lazarus (Queensland, Independent) Share this | Hansard source

My question is to the Hon. Senator Simon Birmingham, representing the Minister for the Environment. My question to him is being delivered on behalf of fellow Queenslander Gwenda Casey from Birkdale in Queensland. In 2012 Tony Burke declared 40 new marine reserves around Australia and, as well, implemented management plans for the new parks to provide increased protection for Australia's unique and vulnerable marine environment. Some of these areas are habitats for humpback whales, blue whales, sea lions and other creatures. Senator, could you please explain why your government has suspended the management plans for the new parks and placed the status of the new parks on hold while you undertake a review?