The coastline, waters and chain of islands around Derbal Nara (Cockburn Sound) holds remarkable marine and coastal nature. 

Yet, environmental protection and biodiversity conservation of this region is uncertain.  

Significant industrialisation of the area over the past ~200 years has already pushed ecological communities to near collapse. 

Major development of the area poses further significant impact to the climate and environment. 

Now, development plans have been released for public comment.  

After careful review of the documents, environmental considerations in the new proposals are inadequately addressed. 

If you have an interest in helping Conservation Council of WA work on this issue please let us know.

Given the broader ecological importance of this area to Matters of National Environmental Significance (and other species and communities of conservation significance), and the cumulative pressures that the area already faces, the proposals warrant further evaluation of the risks and, where appropriate, strong environmental conditions, to ensure that this region is protected from further degradation. 

Currently development plans include the proposed Outer Harbour Port Development in Derbal Nara (Cockburn Sound). 

The Outer Harbour Port Development proposal is part of ‘Westport’, the State Government plan to move container trade from Walyalup (Fremantle) to Kwinana. 

The WA Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has opened consultation to the public on the first stage of its assessment of the Westport project.  

We have an opportunity to provide feedback by 28 November 2024. 

The next step in the WA EPA process will be the Public Environmental Review phase where an Environmental Review Document will be prepared by Westport and published by the EPA for an 8-week public comment period. 

To get involved during the Public Environmental Review phase please leave your contact details, including your phone number. 

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