Australia to kill sharks on sight

 

Friday 28 September 2012 04:51 EDT
Comments
(Getty Images)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

A rise in the number of shark attacks has prompted Australia to introduce a controversial "kill on sight" policy, designed to protect beachgoers from Great Whites that get too close.

Five fatal attacks in the last ten month off the West Australian coast caused panic for locals and tourists. In response, the government this week announced a $6.85 million package of "shark mitigation" measures that include the tracking and killing of sharks who venture near swimmers.

Colin Barnet, Premier of Western Australia, said: "We will always put the lives and safety of beachgoers ahead of the shark...This is, after all, a fish - let's keep it in perspective."

Conservation groups have accused the government of fear-mongering - arguing that not all sharks are killers.

Others might be skeptical of the decision to spend $150,000 on community awareness programs that include a smartphone application.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in