❓ Question regarding baseline underwater acoustic modelling, noise impact assessments, and mitigation measures for the Westport development's impact on marine mammals, particularly dolphins, in Cockburn Sound. The answer indicates studies exist and are publicly available, further modelling is underway, and thresholds will be determined through environmental impact assessment processes.
AnsweredQoN 1785Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
I refer to the proposed Westport development in Cockburn Sound and associated marine construction activities, and I ask : (a) Has the Government undertaken or commissioned any baseline underwater acoustic modelling for Cockburn Sound prior to commencement of construction works ; (b) If yes, will the Minister table the full modelling reports and methodologies; (c) Has cumulative underwater noise exposure on marine mammals been quantified, including construction and operational phases; (d) What independent scientific review has been undertaken of any acoustic impact assessments; (e) Has the Government established defined acoustic threshold limits for pile-driving, dredging and vessel movements, and if so, what are those limits; and (f) What mitigation measures are proposed to prevent or minimise underwater noise impacts on dolphins during breeding periods ?
AnswerView source ↗
Answered
18 March 2026
Responded by
Minister for Transport
Response time
9 days
(a)-(f) Independent baseline underwater noise studies were conducted and are published publicly on the Western Australian Marine Studies Institute’s website.
Modelling of underwater noise for construction and operational phases is in progress.
Conditions, including any acoustic threshold limits for pile-driving, dredging or other significant noise sources, will be informed by the Environmental Protection Authority and Commonwealth agencies through the environmental impact assessment processes, including consideration of public comments.
Modelling of underwater noise for construction and operational phases is in progress.
Conditions, including any acoustic threshold limits for pile-driving, dredging or other significant noise sources, will be informed by the Environmental Protection Authority and Commonwealth agencies through the environmental impact assessment processes, including consideration of public comments.
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