Protect humpback whales and other marine wildlife from shark nets and drumlines

Every year, migrating humpback whales travel thousands of kilometres along Australia's east coast. But during this remarkable journey, many encounter a deadly threat: shark nets and drumlines.

Operated by the Queensland and New South Wales governments, these programs are designed to catch and kill sharks. In the process, they also harm and kill hundreds of non-target marine animals, including whales, dolphins, turtles, rays and endangered shark species.

Among the victims are humpback whales, including vulnerable calves making their first migration. Entanglements can cause injury, stress, prolonged suffering and, in some cases, death.

Despite their impact on marine wildlife, shark nets do not create a physical barrier between people and sharks. Scientific evidence shows these programs are outdated and ineffective at keeping beachgoers safe.

These harmful programs continue to operate because the Queensland and NSW Governments rely on exemptions in Australia's federal environment laws that allow state governments to capture, injure and kill protected marine species.

As Australia prepares to host the International Whaling Commission, the world's leading whale conservation meeting, we have an opportunity to show genuine leadership in protecting whales and other marine life.

Help us call on the Australian Government to put a stop to destructive shark nets.