Jeremy Rockliff's promises to provide additional investment into the Environment Protection Authority and to introduce a Marine Environment Act are an even more significant step in the right direction.
Australia Institute research recommended an integrated, ecosystem-based approach to ocean management in our 2023 paper It's Time: A proposal for a Tasmanian Integrated Marine Estate Act.
The Australia Institute has been conducting research into the salmon issue for a decade.
It shows Tasmanians want greater regulation over the salmon industry, while most support stopping salmon farming in areas where it is putting the endangered Maugean skate at risk.
"We congratulate the Tasmanian Liberals on this very significant announcement," said Eloise Carr, Director, The Australia Institute Tasmania.
"Labor leader Dean Winter has the opportunity to prove that he is not determined to remain opposition leader by going to the negotiating table and matching this announcement.
"Another denial of salmon industry and other community concerns about the environment could mean Labor is set for another four long years of opposition.
"The Australia Institute has led the push for a Marine Environment Act that protects Tasmania's ocean from pollution and builds resilience to the impacts of climate change. An ecosystem-based approach would allow the ocean to recover and replenish itself. Establishing a marine authority to implement this will be key to its success."
