Standard Presentation (12 minutes) Australian Marine Sciences Association 2025 Conference

Harnessing the Wind, Mapping the Sea: Making Informed Decisions for a Renewable Future (119427)

Tessa Mazor 1 , Rhiannon Holden 1 , Gareth Shaw 1 , Emmalene Gottwald 1 , Kate Watermeyer 1 , Kimberley Macdonald 1 , Lawrance Ferns 1
  1. Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, Heidelberg, VICTORIA, Australia

Offshore marine environments are key to the global shift toward clean, renewable energy, with the waters off Victoria and in the Bass Strait identified as prime areas for wind energy. However, a lack of comprehensive biodiversity data limits effective spatial planning and decision-making. To address this, DEECA developed the Marine Biodiversity Value (MBV) map - an innovative tool combining marine mapping with Zonation conservation software. The tool integrates machine learning models of hundreds of species to visualise and rank biodiversity value across Victorian waters and the Bass Strait. Six planning scenarios, incorporating existing marine activities, were tested to identify areas of high ecological importance while considering trade-offs. The analysis revealed biodiversity hotspots along coastal areas, continental shelf canyons, and upwelling zones. Notably, 60% of the region is influenced by existing marine activities, with 17% of this area also recognised for its high biodiversity value. The results highlight significant opportunities for both marine activities and biodiversity conservation, supported by strategic planning and future research on identified priorities. The MBV map equips decision-makers with a powerful tool to balance offshore development and biodiversity conservation, supporting sustainable development and a thriving blue economy.