Australians have a deep connection with the ocean. It is of great importance to our identity, prosperity, lifestyle and security. And there can be no greater icon than the Great Barrier Reef.

To the east of the Great Barrier Reef lies a second and less known tropical marine jewel: the Coral Sea. Its crystal clear waters are home to huge fish like tuna, marlin and sharks that dominate the ecosystem. 

The pristine islets and cays are both breeding ground and nursery for turtles and seabirds. Hundreds of other species, from majestic humpback whales to dainty reef fish, abound in its warm tropical waters.

The Coral Sea is steeped in maritime history with stories of adversity and survival. Once the arena for the Battle of the Coral Sea, it now remains a refuge for marine wildlife.
 
Globally, less than one tenth of 1 percent of our oceans are highly protected. 

It is rare to find a place where the political will and public support could be generated to secure a large, highly protected marine park, free from extractive industries like fishing and mining.

The Coral Sea is one of those places.

There could be no better ocean legacy for future generations.

The Australian Marine Conservation Society, along with our partners, is calling for the establishment of a large, world-class, highly protected marine park in the Coral Sea that will provide a safe haven for marine life and recognise its historic significance. The Coral Sea Marine Park would be an unparalleled contribution to global marine conservation and leave a lasting legacy for all Australians.