SA’s Voice to Parliament is deeply troubled by the ongoing algal bloom affecting SA’s coastal waters and its impacts on First Nations people.

First Nations’ voices should continue to be heard, as decisions are made about how to best manage and respond to the bloom and its devastating impacts.

“The algal bloom outbreak is not only killing our sea life, including those that hold deep spiritual significance to our people, but also damaging our living cultural spaces – places that are integral to the traditional practices and identity of our people,” State Voice Presiding Member Leeroy Bilney said.

“This is not just an environmental tragedy - it is a profound cultural wound.”

The algal bloom is placing significant strain on local economies, including coastal First Nations communities who rely heavily on healthy marine environments for both survival and commercial activities.

Access to safe seafood, closures of fishing areas, and reputational damage to local produce are causing concerns about a flow-on effect, including reduced income, food security, and heightened social stress in already vulnerable First Nations communities.

Many coastal communities, already experiencing health inequities, are now contending with uncertainty about water safety, seafood consumption, and long-term environmental damage.

“While we acknowledge engagement with First Nations groups has taken place, ongoing, comprehensive and inclusive consultation is vital, so that First Nations people have a voice in decisions that directly affect their livelihoods, cultural heritage and traditions, and wellbeing,” State Voice Presiding Member Leeroy Bilney said.

“We believe that open, respectful, and culturally grounded dialogue is the best pathway forward.

“We want opportunities for communities to hear directly from scientists, health experts, and government representatives, and equally for those agencies to hear directly from communities about lived impacts and priorities of First Nations people for action.

“By working together in recovery efforts, we can protect the health of SA’s coastal ecosystem, as well as the cultural and economic sustainability of our First Nations communities.”

For further information about the algal bloom visit: Algal bloom - Government of South Australia.