❓ Question regarding visitor management and operational restrictions on Penguin Island since 2016, and the impact on Perth Wildlife Encounters. The response details changes, consultation, and future plans.
AnsweredQoN 1793Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
I refer to visitor management and operational restrictions affecting Penguin Island since 2016, and I ask : (a) What changes to visitor management arrangements, seasonal closures or conservation directives have been implemented since 2016; (b) What consultation occurred with Perth Wildlife Encounters prior to implementing those changes; (c) Has the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation assessed the cumulative commercial impact of these restrictions on Perth Wildlife Encounters; (d) What analysis has been undertaken to balance conservation objectives with the sustainability of licensed tourism operations; and (e) Are there any planned amendments to access arrangements or operational conditions for the 2025–26 season?
AnswerView source ↗
Answered
19 March 2026
Responded by
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for the Environment
Response time
10 days
(a) The following changes to visitor management arrangements at Penguin Island have occurred since 2016: upgrades and improvements to boardwalks and lookouts, picnic areas, shaded seating, signage and interpretation, visitor information hub and replacement of toilets. Conservation measures include: four week extension to annual closure during penguin breeding season, island closures when the forecast temperature is 35 o C or higher during summer, provision of water bowls, installation of new and improved nest boxes, weed control, rehabilitation of native vegetation, trial of penguin misting system, enforcement of eight knot vessel speed restrictions and several penguin research and monitoring projects undertaken by DBCA and external marine scientists.
(b) The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) has a close working relationship with Perth Wildlife Encounters and undertook considerable consultation on all visitor management changes.
(c) – (d) Perth Wildlife Encounters is a commercial operator and makes its own operational decisions based on the information available. DBCA continues to liaise with Perth Wildlife Encounters to support its operations where possible.
(e) Not at this time.
(b) The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) has a close working relationship with Perth Wildlife Encounters and undertook considerable consultation on all visitor management changes.
(c) – (d) Perth Wildlife Encounters is a commercial operator and makes its own operational decisions based on the information available. DBCA continues to liaise with Perth Wildlife Encounters to support its operations where possible.
(e) Not at this time.
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