In this article, we are going to explore Australian Whale Sanctuary in a deep and detailed way, analyzing different aspects, points of view and perspectives related to this topic. We will delve into its origin, evolution, impact on society and possible future implications. Additionally, we will examine different expert opinions and relevant studies that shed light on Australian Whale Sanctuary and its relevance today. This article seeks to offer a complete and enriching view on Australian Whale Sanctuary, with the aim of providing our readers with a deep and global understanding of this topic that is of interest to a wide audience.
Australian Whale Sanctuary | |
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Coordinates | 35°18′07.51″S 149°08′03.70″E / 35.3020861°S 149.1343611°E |
Established | 1999 |
Governing body | Department of the Environment and Energy |
The Australian Whale Sanctuary, established in 1999, aims to protect dolphins and whales from hunting in waters within the Australian government's jurisdiction.
The sanctuary encompasses the entire Australian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), extending 200 nautical miles (370 km) surrounding the continent of Australia and its external dependencies such as Christmas Island (in the Indian Ocean), Cocos (Keeling) Island, Norfolk Island, Macquarie Island and Heard Island and McDonald Islands. Additionally, it includes the EEZ adjacent to the coastline of the Australian Antarctic Territory, recognised only by the United Kingdom, New Zealand, France and Norway.
The sanctuary is the scene of an ongoing controversy between Australia and Japan over whaling. In 2008 the Federal Court of Australia ruled it was illegal under Australian law for the Japanese whaling fleet to kill whales in the Sanctuary. In 2015 Kyodo Senpaku Kaisha Ltd was found guilty of wilful contempt of court and fined A$1,000,000.