Qualitative assessment of the potential impacts of seismic survey activity on Victorian managed fisheries of commercial and recreational importance
Project number:
2024-026
Project Status:
Current
Budget expenditure:
$21,450.00
Principal Investigator:
Paul McShane
Organisation:
Fishwell Pty Ltd
TAGS
Seismic surveys undertaken by the petroleum industry and the energy sector in offshore waters use high intensity airguns to characterise seabed petroleum resources and/or potential offshore energy installations. Seismic noise has been shown elsewhere to have adverse effects on marine biota including direct (e.g. injury) or indirect (e.g. behavioural) impacts. A review of relevant literature (including unpublished studies conducted in Victorian waters) is required to fully evaluate potential consequences of expanded seismic surveys. Such a review will provide a more robust basis for decision making by authorised planners consistent with a precautionary approach to development.
1. Conduct a review of literature relevant to understanding potential impacts of marine seismic surveys on animals important to commercial and recreational fisheries.
2. Based on the literature review qualitatively assess the nature of likely impacts on marine biota for input to future risk assessments.
3. Make recommendations for future research so as to improve understanding of the nature of marine seismic surveys and consequences for commercial and recreational fisheries in Victoria.
