The Queensland Government has announced legislation that will govern whale watching and marine mammal protection.

State Minister for the Environment, Andrew Powell, said that the changes re-enforced the Government’s ‘commitment to slashing red tape’ and will simplify regulations and lift the ban on commercial whale watching in State waters off the Sunshine and Gold Coasts.

“This is a common sense move which ends the absurdity of commercial operators having to travel out to Commonwealth waters before they can stop and look at whales,” Mr Powell said.

“Instead of having to ignore any whales they encounter on the way, these operators will now be able to pause and let their customers enjoy the experience as they head out to their main whale watching destinations in Commonwealth waters.

Boat skippers will continue to operate under standard approach limits, with boats allowed within 100 metres of whales and 300 metres if there are four or more vessels. Jetskis and watercraft will also be limited to 300 metres.