4.6 CONCLUSION

The Committee recognises that the integrity of Victoria's marine ecosystems has important implications for the State's economy. Exotic marine organisms endanger the biodiversity and amenity of coastal waters, thereby threatening income derived from aquaculture, commercial and recreational fishing, water sports industries, and domestic and international tourism.

The Committee also notes that any costs to the State of preventing or minimising the introduction of exotic marine organisms in ballast water should be considered not only in light of the major economic and social benefits to be derived from protecting Victoria's marine ecosystems, but also with regard to the intrinsic value of natural coastal ecosystems, and Victoria's international obligations to protect biological diversity and preserve ecological integrity.