JOINT MEDIA RELEASE WITH HON JULIE BISHOP MP, MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS
Australia is providing a further $6 million to the Coral Triangle Initiative, supporting the 120 million people in our region who rely on rich and diverse marine life for their livelihoods.
Often called ‘the Amazon of the seas’, the Coral Triangle is home to 76 per cent of the world’s known coral species and is home to the highest reef fish diversity with 37 per cent of the world’s reef fish species. The Coral Triangle is also an important area for such high-profile species as tuna and blue whales.
The Initiative is a partnership of six countries: Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Solomon Islands and Timor Leste.
Australia’s funding will help these countries to improve sustainable use of this outstanding natural heritage.
At the regional level, it will focus on three priorities: developing and implementing integrated, ecosystem-based management of countries’ seas and coasts; improving economic opportunities through a regional approach to ecotourism, and support for communities to manage and sustainably develop their natural resources.
In keeping with Australia’s development priorities, our investment in the Coral Triangle Initiative will support activities that build sustainable economic growth, encourage private sector development and empower women and girls.
The new funding builds on $7.2 million that Australia has provided to the Coral Triangle Initiative since 2009.
(ENDS)