The Southern Cross University Whale Research Centre has been contracted by Environment Australia to develop a collaborative cetacean project in the South Pacific.

This project involves working with local South Pacific government authorities, as well as non-government organisations, to investigate the current status of populations of cetaceans in the Solomon Islands, Fiji, Independent Samoa and Vanuatu.

During 2001 the Centre undertook the first study of cetaceans in the waters of Independent Samoa. Following this work, the Samoan Government has declared a whale, dolphin, turtle and shark sanctuary within their waters.

This is a long term program with plans to undertake further work in other areas of the South Pacific. A program is proposed to be commenced in Fiji during 2002.

This research is a vital part of the work conducted as part of the approved programs of the South Pacific Whale Research Consortium*.

Updated: 02 April 2008