• State support to capitalise on opportunities within the blue economy

Science Minister Dave Kelly today announced a $1.29 million funding boost to help develop Western Australia into a global marine science hub.

The McGowan Labor Government has provided these funds to the Western Australian Marine Science Institution (WAMSI) and the Perth Programme Office of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC).

The funding will help WA capitalise on opportunities offered by the Australian blue economy, which utilises oceans’ resources for sustainable economic gain. The blue economy is expected to be worth about $100 billion by 2025.

WAMSI and the UNESCO IOC Perth Programme Office contribute to Perth’s development as a global marine science hub and increase global awareness of the world-class marine science research that takes place in Western Australia.

The State Government is providing WAMSI with $550,000, and the UNESCO IOC Perth Programme Office with $740,000 in funding.

For more information, visit http://www.wamsi.org.au

Comments attributed to Science Minister Dave Kelly:

‘Western Australia’s rich marine biodiversity is a unique and proud part of our State’s identity.

‘That is why the McGowan Labor Government is committed to building WA’s reputation as a global marine science hub.

‘This investment will also support a number of industries that depend on our marine environment, including the oil and gas sector, tourism, and commercial fisheries.’

Minister’s office – 6552 6100