Minderoo Foundation is a modern philanthropic organisation. It is independent, forward thinking and seeks effective, scalable solutions. We are proudly Australian, and one of Asia’s largest philanthropies, with AUD $2 billion committed to a range of global initiatives.

A healthy ocean is one that can withstand a changing climate and increasing human pressure, is resilient, and free from pollution with a plentiful biomass of fished species. As human pressure increases and the health of our ocean continues to decline, dramatic steps are required to protect and conserve this resource. In line with the Sustainable Development Goal (14) and its targets, our key objective is to return our ocean to a healthy thriving state. To facilitate this, we are committed to ending overfishing; ending the dumping of plastic, heat and CO2 in our ocean; supporting the sustainable use of ocean resources; conserving key habitats; and facilitating world class research.

This presentation will offer an insight into Minderoo Flourishing Ocean initiative goals and an overview of two key programs: Sustainable Fisheries and Marine Conservation. The Sustainable Fisheries team at Minderoo has the mountaintop goal of ending overfishing globally and aims to become a leading authority in fisheries research and advocacy. The launch of the Global Fishing Index in 2021 saw their first flagship project published with 142 maritime countries assessed for both the sustainability of their fisheries as well as the governance policies in place to regulate them. Ongoing work includes identifying major powers in the high-risk overseas fishing industry as well as seafood fraud where consumers are misguided in their decision making.

The Marine Protected Areas team at Minderoo has the mountaintop goal of securing 30% of the ocean as designated 'no take’ zones or an equivalent level of protection by 2030. It is critical to understand what MPAs are, their importance in returning oceans to a flourishing state, and their role in mitigating climate change. Consistent work has been done in assessing the status in Australia and internationally to design strategies for future direction, identifying key opportunities, challenges and Minderoo catalytic involvement in global and local projects.

About the speakers

Tony Rouphael is a marine environmental scientist. Studied at James Cook University in Qld, where he investigated the impact of SCUBA divers in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Later worked in Yemen, Saudi Arabia and Egypt on marine conservation initiatives relating to the Red Sea. Worked as a marine environmental consultant for resource projects in Western Australia, including the Chevron Wheatstone Project. Now works on marine protected area projects for the Minderoo Foundation.

Alex McLennan achieved an MSc in marine biology from the University of Western Australia where he worked with mid- water remote video systems. He then spent a year as a field and lab tech sampling West Australia’s coastline with special interest around marine protected areas. For the last two years Alex has been Minderoo’s Sustainable Fisheries data analyst working with vast datasets containing stock assessments, international trade, and social survey data.

Dear attendees, please note that those attending in person shall need to present their proof of vaccination and ID at the door. Furthermore, those attending in person are requested to arrive half an hour (17:30) before the start of the presentation. This enables a smooth transition into the online presentation.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Kind Regards,

IMarEST WA Branch