Perth’s coastline and offshore waters are the playground for a large part of the growing population. The brilliant colours and clarity of the water and the rich diversity of the sea life attract thousands of recreational users throughout the year. Power boating, yachting, surfing, sailing, fishing, snorkelling and beach usage are at their height in summer.

Four large marinas have been built between Fremantle and Yanchep and two further marinas are proposed for Cockburn Sound. Gage Roads provides the entry route for the vastly increased amount of commercial shipping coming to Fremantle and Cockburn Sound. Rottnest Island remains a premier recreational and environmental focus for many Perth residents and tourists. Accordingly protection of the estuarine, coastal and marine habitat integrity and the cultural values associated with the marine environment must be a high priority for the Perth Region.

Symptoms of degradation of the Region’s coastal and marine environment are biodiversity decline, exotic marine species and exotic plants. Prominent causes are recreational activities urban or industrial discharges and infrastructure development, leading to erosion and sedimentation, nutrient export and enrichment, and chemical contamination. Beach access is an ongoing issue for dune preservation. There is generally inadequate recognition of the long-term effects of usage and development along the coastal strip.