During National Science Week, over 120 researchers, marine park managers, policy makers, and Traditional Owners gathered in Perth for the first Marine Heatwave Symposium to address Western Australia’s most severe marine heatwave on record. The event, coordinated by the Australian Institute of Marine Science and the WA Government, focused on sharing current monitoring and research findings on widespread coral bleaching and mortality. Presentations covered oceanography, climate, and impacts on coral and seagrass, with input from multiple government agencies, research institutions, and universities. Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn emphasised the importance of long-term monitoring to guide future management and recovery efforts. A free public talk followed to engage the wider community in understanding the heatwave’s impacts.

Read the Western Australian Government’s full media release here: https://www.wa.gov.au/government/media-statements/Cook%20Labor%20Government/Experts-gather-to-discuss-WA%27s-marine-heatwave-20250812