Sea Sick: South Australian Algal Bloom Crisis

Sea Sick: South Australian Algal Bloom Crisis

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Did you know that a natural disaster is unfolding off South Australia’s coast — but the federal government refuses to call it what it is?

South Australia’s coastline is experiencing a crisis in slow-motion. A massive algal bloom has choked the ocean, silenced surf breaks, and left fishing boats tied to the dock. Sea creatures - from stingrays to leafy seadragons - are washing up dead. And the people who live and work by the ocean? They're getting sick, they’re confused, and they feel ignored.

For months, surfers, fishers, and scientists have raised the alarm. But our leaders have ...

Did you know that a natural disaster is unfolding off South Australia’s coast — but the federal government refuses to call it what it is?

South Australia’s coastline is experiencing a crisis in slow-motion. A massive algal bloom has choked the ocean, silenced surf breaks, and left fishing boats tied to the dock. Sea creatures - from stingrays to leafy seadragons - are washing up dead. And the people who live and work by the ocean? They're getting sick, they’re confused, and they feel ignored.

For months, surfers, fishers, and scientists have raised the alarm. But our leaders have failed to act.

Right now, the federal government can’t declare this event a natural disaster - because the existing framework doesn’t recognise marine ecosystem collapse or harmful algal blooms as disasters. That obviously needs to change.

We’re calling on the Federal Government to update disaster criteria so climate-driven marine events can trigger the support communities need - just like floods, fires and storms.

We call this what it is: A natural climate-driven disaster..

Call on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to declare the South Australian Ocean Crisis a natural disaster.


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Sign the Petition

South Australia’s coastline is choking under a climate-fuelled disaster — and the federal government is refusing to act.

Sign now to demand an update for disaster criteria, a natural disaster declaration, federal support for long-term ocean health and clear communication for coastal communities.

The Hon Murray Watt MP 

Minister for the Environment and Water

Parliament House 

Canberra ACT 2600 

The Hon Kristy McBain MP

Minister for Emergency Management 

Parliament House 

Canberra ACT 2600 

Dear Ministers, 

South Australia’s coastline is in crisis — but your  government still won’t call it what it is.

A massive algal bloom is suffocating the ocean. Surf breaks have fallen silent. Fishing boats are stuck at the dock. Marine life — from stingrays to seadragons — are washing up dead. And the coastal communities who live, work, and surf by the sea? They’re sick, they’re scared, and they feel ignored.

Right now, the federal government can’t declare this event a natural disaster - because the existing framework doesn’t recognise marine ecosystem collapse or harmful algal blooms as disasters. That needs to change. We are calling on your government to update disaster criteria so climate-driven marine events can trigger the support communities need - just like floods, fires and storms.

Along with the South Australian Government and Surfers for Climate we’re urging you to call this what it is: A natural disaster that demands a more comprehensive and urgent federal response.

What We’re Calling For: 

1. Update disaster criteria so climate-driven marine events can trigger natural disaster funding. 

If it’s not recognised as a natural disaster, it can’t be declared as one. 

2. Declare a natural disaster right now. 

To unlock urgent funding for affected communities, scientists and small businesses. 

3. Commit Federal support for long-term ocean health. 

This includes reef restoration, habitat rebuilding, and real climate adaptation strategies. 

4. Set a strong 2035 climate target. 

Australia’s next climate target will shape our safety, economy and international standing for the next decade. We deserve a strong target that will protect us from escalating disasters.  

This is climate change — not in the future, but here and now.

We either call it what it is and act — or let this become the new normal. It’s time for your government to act.

Yours sincerely,

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