The Tasmanian Chapter of the Australian Coastal Society (ACS) is comprised of coastal researchers, professionals and community members with extensive expertise in coastal issues. Working to sustain the rich values on Tasmania’s extensive coastline, ACS Tasmania has been engaged with the current State Government who have been receptive in considering the most appropriate planning and management framework for Tasmania’s coastal and marine areas into the future.
The Draft Coastal Policy Statement released in 2013 was a positive step forward in recognising the complexity of the coastal environment and the need for an integrated, whole of government approach. However, significant further work is needed to provide clear and appropriate direction on coastal planning and management for Tasmania.
Whilst there has been little focus on coastal issues so far in this election campaign, there remains a strong need to develop a framework with best practice policy settings for our coasts that could replace the existing State Coastal Policy 1996. A review of the 1996 Policy began 10 years ago in 2004.
Over the past decade, wide-ranging pressures on Tasmania’s beautiful and productive coastal areas have continued to increase from inappropriate development and other human activities as well as hazards created by erosion and inundation associated with climate change. ACS recognises that sustainability and management measures to sustain and improve natural values along our coastline will greatly benefit social and economic outcomes for Tasmania in the medium to long term.
The Tasmanian Chapter of the ACS looks forward to working with the incoming government to develop clear and consistent approaches to coastal planning and management to ensure certainty for the Tasmanian community, developers and managers regarding our valued coastal environment.
ACS Tasmanian welcomes input and membership in support of this direction.
Chris Rees Deputy Convenor, ACS (Tasmania)
