The Convention on Wetlands, commonly called the Ramsar Convention, is an intergovernmental treaty that provides the framework for national action and international cooperation for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources.

Queensland has five Ramsar sites recognised as being wetlands of international significance under this convention:

• Moreton Bay
• Bowling Green Bay
• Currawinya Lakes
• Great Sandy Strait
• Shoalwater Bay and Corio Bay.

The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) (EPBC Act) establishes a framework for protecting and managing Ramsar wetlands in Australia, including Australian Ramsar management principles relevant to preparing Ramsar site management plans.

Queensland is responsible for:

• the nomination of its Ramsar sites
• the development and maintenance of site documentation
• ensuring the maintenance of the ecological character of the sites
• notification of any changes or likely changes to the ecological character of the sites.

The appropriate landholders and land managers are responsible for managing wetlands and their associated flora and fauna. Many groups engage in Ramsar management activities, including natural resource management groups, community groups, Traditional Custodians, and local and state governments.

In addition to managing Ramsar sites, the Queensland Government is responsible for promoting the wise use of all wetlands.

Targets

• All Ramsar site documentation (Ramsar Information Sheets) is up to date.
• Ramsar management principles and values are incorporated into management, policy and planning documents.
• Knowledge gaps are identified and addressed and the information is used in management.
• The values and conservation of Ramsar sites and all wetlands are promoted through education, website materials and events.

Outcomes

• Conservation measures, rehabilitation, and monitoring ensure that the ecological character of the sites is maintained.
• Queensland, Commonwealth and Local Governments, natural resource management groups, Traditional Custodians, researchers, industry and other community representatives work together to manage the Ramsar sites in a coordinated manner.
• The ecological character of all Ramsar wetlands is maintained.

More information:

• Nationally (DIWA) and internationally important (Ramsar) wetlands