Kakadu Sea Country Strategy 2025–2035 Literature Review

Overview

Kakadu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is recognised for its exceptional natural and cultural values. It encompasses diverse biomes such as tropical savanna forests, extensive floodplains, coastal estuaries, and marine ecosystems. The Park holds significant ecological importance, supporting numerous threatened species and maintaining critical habitats for a wide range of biodiversity. However, Kakadu’s marine and coastal environments remain underrepresented within the Park’s boundaries, limiting conservation efforts and necessitating integrated management strategies that extend beyond terrestrial ecosystems.

Despite the ecological and cultural significance of these marine environments, their biodiversity and ecosystem functions are poorly documented, with research gaps in species distribution, habitat connectivity, and ecosystem resilience. This review synthesises literature on Kakadu’s marine values, identifying key threats, conservation needs, and research priorities. The primary environmental threats to the region include saltwater intrusion, climate change-induced sea level rise, invasive species, and fire regimes. Additionally, anthropogenic pressures, such as mining activities, recreational fishing, and unsustainable land-use practices, further exacerbate the vulnerability of the Park’s ecosystems.

To address these challenges, collaborative and adaptive management approaches are essential. The review highlights the importance of Indigenous-led research and co-management strategies, incorporating Bininj Traditional Owners’ knowledge systems to guide conservation planning and decision- making. Strengthening marine ecosystem monitoring, conducting habitat mapping, and enhancing governance frameworks are critical for ensuring the long-term protection of Kakadu’s natural and cultural heritage.

This review provides strategic recommendations for future research and conservation efforts, emphasising the need for participatory approaches integrating scientific research, Indigenous knowledge, and sustainable resource management. These insights will contribute to effective policy development, ensuring the resilience and sustainability of Kakadu National Park’s marine and coastal ecosystems in the face of climate change and environmental pressure.