Australia plans to create the world 's largest network of marine reserves , its government announced Thursday . The proposal would increase the number of protected areas from 27 to 60 and would cover 3.1 million square kilometers ( 1.9 million square miles ) , roughly one-third of Australia 's waters . `` We have an incredible opportunity to turn the tide on protection of the oceans and Australia can lead the world in marine protection , '' said Tony Burke , the country 's environment minister . `` This new network of marine reserves will help ensure that Australia 's diverse marine environment , and the life it supports , remain healthy , productive and resilient for future generations . '' The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and the Coral Sea Commonwealth marine reserve will become the world 's largest adjoining marine protected area , covering 1.3 million square kilometers . Interactive : Conservation hits and misses . `` Our aim is to protect our unique marine environment , while supporting coastal communities and marine industries around the country , '' said Burke . `` Over the coming months , the government will consult the fishing industry and fisheries management agencies on the design and implementation of a fisheries adjustment assistance package . '' WWF Australia hailed the plan as an `` important example to the world . '' The newly created sanctuaries would give protection to Australia 's biggest undersea mountain range , the Diamantina fracture zone off the southwest coast , as well as new parts of the Coral Sea that are critical nesting sites for green turtles and rich in large predatory fish and sharks . Paul Gambin from WWF Australia cautioned that some areas equally rich in biodiversity had not been included in the plan , possibly because of their proximity to rich reserves of fossil fuels . `` Oil and gas rigs are still moving ever closer to places like the stunning Rowley Shoals and Ningaloo Reef off Western Australia , '' said Gambin in a press statement . `` These are among the jewels in the crown for Australia 's marine environment and surrounding waters have not been protected under this plan . '' The marine reserves network is expected to be finalized before the end of 2012 .
Proposal would cover one third of Australia 's waters . Comment: Some areas still open to oil and gas exploration .