In NSW, the responsibility for aquatic biodiversity is divided between Industry and Investment NSW (I&I NSW) and the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water (DECCW).

I&I NSW is responsible for all species of fish and marine vegetation. Fish include sharks and rays, aquatic invertebrate animals, such as worms, snails, mussels, corals, sponges, sea urchins, barnacles, crabs, crayfish, aquatic insects and prawns. Marine vegetation includes all seaweeds, seagrasses and marine algae.

Other types of animals, including whales, dolphins, seals and waterbirds, and plants, including freshwater plants, are the responsibility of DECCW. The responsibility for threatened species and their management is shared between I&I NSW and DECCW.

IN THIS SECTION

• Priorities Action Statement
  
• Threatened species conservation
  
• Protected species
  
• Fisheries Scientific Committee
  
• How you can help
  
• Records viewer