The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) has formally gazetted the zoning scheme for the Bardi Jawi Gaarra Marine Park in the State’s Kimberley region.

The park is jointly managed by the State Government and Bardi and Jawi Traditional Owners and covers 204,000 hectares of waters around the northern part of Dampier Peninsula and the western islands of the Buccaneer Archipelago, including reefs and intertidal systems. 

The park has four types of zones: general use, sanctuary, special purpose (biocultural conservation) and special purpose (cultural protection). 

DBCA Buccaneer Archipelago Parks Coordinator Kevin Bancroft said the zones strike the right balance between recreation, commercial use and conservation. 

"The special purpose zones highlight the importance of these waters to the culture and heritage of the Bardi and Jawi Traditional Owners,” he said. 

"The sanctuary zones are vital for providing the highest level of protection for marine habitats and wildlife. These are 'look but don’t take' areas. 

"Recreational fishing will continue in general use zones and special purpose (biocultural conservation) zones, which together form nearly half of the park. Recreational fishing in the special purpose (cultural protection) zones will only be permitted as part of an authorised tourism operation. There will be a 12-month transition period before fishing restrictions come into effect in July 2026."

Commercial fishing will continue in general use zones, while some commercial activities will be restricted in special purpose zones. Commercial fishers may be eligible for compensation as a result of impacts arising from creation of the marine park, and the compensation process, coordinated by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, is planned to commence during 2025. 

More zoning information can be found in the Frequently Asked Questions document on the Explore Parks website Bardi Jawi Gaarra Marine Park or in the park management plan at https://www.dbca.wa.gov.au/management/plans/bardi-jawi-gaarra-marine-park.