The Policy, which covers all of Australia’s EEZ, recognises that maintenance of healthy ocean ecosystems is fundamental and that a strong, competitive marine industry base is also important and depends on ensuring the long- term ecological sustainability of a wide range of ocean uses. Volume 1 deals with the context, general issues and principles, and some key initial actions (integrated planning and management; biodiversity conservation; pollution; tourism; community participation etc.), while Volume 2 deals with specific sectoral measures (Commonwealth of Australia 1998a, 1998b).

In December 1999, the National Oceans Office was formed as an Executive Agency under the Commonwealth Public Service Act 1999 to oversee implementation of the Plan. A key focus of the work of the NOO is the development of Regional Marine Plans (RMPs). Preparation of the first of these, for south-east Australia, is currently underway.

The Policy has been criticised by WWF Australia for focusing primarily on the development of economic opportunities and lacking a strong conservation vision (Moore 1998).