The WA Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) is seeking feedback on Stage 1 of the review of the State Environmental (Cockburn Sound) Policy 2015 (SEP).
The DWER received funding for three years to review the State Environmental (Cockburn Sound) Policy (SEP). The review is expected to assess whether the policy is still fit for purchase and still provides adequate protection for Cockburn Sound’s environmental values including whether it sufficiently addresses cumulative impacts expected in the coming decades. This is the first stage of public consultation planned during the review.
First introduced in 2005, the SEP created a framework for environmental regulation, water quality improvement and annual monitoring through the Cockburn Sound Management Council (CSMC). The policy was updated in 2015 to include cultural and spiritual values and revise the CSMC’s terms of reference.
Cockburn Sound is one of the few natural embayment’s on WA’s west coast and supports important marine species, seagrass meadows and recreational use. While the SEP has contributed to significant water quality improvements, future pressures from climate change, development and population growth highlight the need for an updated policy framework.
Online feedback is sought by 31 October 2025 the stakeholders and organisations.
