Appendix B – Marine Ecology

This appendix has been prepared in support of an environmental assessment for the Indigo Central cable system, and should be read in conjunction with:  Environmental Impact Assessment Report  Appendix A – Physical Environment  Appendix C – Other Existing Environmental Considerations  Appendix D – Environmental Risk Assessments  Appendix E – PMST Reports

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B. Appendix B - Mainland Australian (Perth) to EEZ Exit ...... 1 B.1 Habitat Overview...... 1 B.2 Nearshore Habitats and Associated Communities ...... 1 B.3 Offshore Habitats ...... 7 B.4 Matters of National Environmental Significance...... 12 B.5 Other Protected Matters ...... 40 B.6 Sensitive Time Windows ...... 44 B. EEZ Entrance to Mainland Australia (Sydney) ...... 46 B.7 Overview ...... 46 B.8 Offshore Habitats ...... 48 B.9 Nearshore Habitats and Associated Communities ...... 54 B.10 Matters of National Significance ...... 58 B.11 Other Protected Matters ...... 94 B.12 Sensitive Time Windows ...... 99 References ...... 100

Table index

Table B-1 KEFs that intersect proposed cable route from Perth to EEZ ...... 13 Table B-2 Threatened Marine Mammals – Mainland Australian (Perth) to EEZ exit ...... 16 Table B-3 Threatened Marine Reptiles – Mainland Australian (Perth) to EEZ exit...... 19 Table B-4 Threatened Sharks – Mainland Australian (Perth) to EEZ exit...... 21 Table B-5 Threatened Birds – Mainland Australian (Perth) to EEZ exit ...... 22 Table B-6 Listed Migratory Species – Mainland Australian (Perth) to EEZ...... 29 Table B-7 Summary of ecologically sensitive timeframes (Perth to EEZ exit) ...... 45 Table B-8 KEFs that intersect proposed cable route from Perth to EEZ ...... 61 Table B-9 Threatened Marine Mammals – EEZ entrance to Australian mainland (Sydney) ...... 66 Table B-10 Threatened Marine Reptiles – EEZ entrance to Australian mainland (Sydney)...... 68 Table B-11 Threatened Fish –EEZ entrance to Australian mainland (Sydney) ...... 69 Table B-12 Threatened Marine Birds – EEZ entrance to Australian mainland (Sydney) ...... 71 Table B-13 Listed Migratory Species – Mainland Australian EEZ (Sydney)...... 80 Table B-14 Summary of ecologically sensitive timeframes (Sydney to EEZ exit) ...... 99

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Figure index

Figure B-1 Indigo Central cable route from Perth to the EEZ exit ...... 3 Figure B-2 WA State marine protected areas and the Central cable route ...... 6 Figure B-3 Marine bioregions (DEWHA, 2008a) and the Central cable route from Perth to the EEZ exit...... 8 Figure B-4 KEFs and the Central cable route from Perth to the EEZ exit...... 14 Figure B-5 Known location of Australian sea-lion breeding colonies (taken from Rogers et al., 2013) ...... 18 Figure B-6 Coastal aggregation areas for the southern right whale (taken from DSEWPC, 2012a)...... 18 Figure B-7 Tracks of three tagged southern right whales in 2014 (taken from Mackey et al., 2015) ...... 18 Figure B-8 Commonwealth marine protected areas and the Central cable corridor from Perth to the EEZ exit ...... 43 Figure B-9 Marine bioregions (DEWHA, 2008a) and the Central cable route from the EEZ entrance to Sydney ...... 47 Figure B-10 Central cable route through Tasmanian coastal waters ...... 55 Figure B-11 Matters of National Environmental Significance - SSPZ ...... 60 Figure B-12 KEFs and the Central cable route from EEZ entrance to Sydney ...... 62 Figure B-13 Posidonia australis and other seagrass meadows ...... 65 Figure B-14 Commonwealth marine protected areas and the Central cable route from the EEZ entrance to Sydney...... 97

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B. Appendix B - Mainland Australian (Perth) to EEZ Exit

B.1 Habitat Overview The habitats described within this Section are those present within the mainland Australian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) at the Perth end of the cable corridor – hereafter referred to as the Perth EEZ corridor reflective of the connection point. The cable will connect via an existing submarine Pop out Point (POP) within the Perth submarine cable Protection Zone (PZ). That POP is located approximately 1 km offshore in 10 m water depth. Figure B-1 illustrates that the cable then travels roughly west, then south around the Cape over the Naturaliste Trough, and then turns to the east and out of Australian waters. The cable leaves the EEZ approximately 430 km offshore, in a water depth of 5708 m (Figure B-1).

From the POP point, where required and appropriate, the cable will be ploughed or water jetted into the seabed along the corridor up to water depth of 1000 m. Following this the cable will be placed on the open seabed. The cable route has a maximum width of 10 m, with the area of actual seabed disturbance comprising a small portion of this area. The cable route will transect or lie in proximity to a range of marine habitats including subtidal rocky reef, macroalgal beds, seagrasses and expanses of subtidal sand and soft sediments. The following sections provide a description of the nearshore and offshore habitats within the Perth EEZ corridor.

Impacts to these habitats and associated species from the Project activities are assessed as part of the Ecological Risk Assessment in accordance with the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act significant impact guidelines (refer Appendix D), and using the Protected Matters Search Tool (PMST). The area applied for the PMST used the route of the proposed cable in the Perth EEZ, with a 10 km buffer area. This search area is referred to throughout this assessment as the ‘cable corridor’ to distinguish the 10 km area for assessment from the 10 m wide cable installation route.

B.2 Nearshore Habitats and Associated Communities

B.2.1 Rocky Reef There are extensive areas of subtidal rocky reefs in the Perth region (Perth NRM, 2015) that support a wide diversity of algae and invertebrates, which in turn provide habitat and prey for many fish (Dye, 2009). Rocky reefs are largely dominated by macroalgal beds (refer following section) but also support a wide variety of sponges, corals, echinoderms, molluscs and crustaceans, including commercially important species such as the Western Rock Lobster (Panulirus cygnus). In the Perth region rocky subtidal reefs typically form linear structures. The Integrated Marine and Coastal Regionalisation of Australia (IMCRA v.4.0) distinguish the bioregion as the ‘Southwest Shelf Transition’ (DEWHA, 2008a). This bioregion is characterised as having shelf habitat bisected by distinctive ridges of limestone reef that supports patchy macroalgae and coral. Between the ridges may be areas of soft sandy or silty sediment that support diverse infauna, and possible areas of seagrass (Director of National Parks, 2013) (refer following sections).

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These linear reefs rise 10–20 m above the sea bed, in water depths of around 10–30 m and mostly lie parallel to the shoreline (Brooke et al., 2008). Although there are numerous reefal areas the only recognised significant area of rocky reef with the Perth region occurs around Rottnest Island (Dye, 2009).

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Legend Place names POP Cable route Cable corridor Mainland Exclusive Economic Zone Australian Exclusive Economic Zone

Paper Size ISO A4 ALCATEL SUBMARINE NETWORKS Project No. 21-26628 0 50 100 150 200 INDIGO Central Revision No. 1 Environmental Impact Assessment Date 14/12/2017 Kilometres

Horizontal Datum: GDA 1994 Indigo Central cable corridor Grid: GCS GDA 1994 from Perth to the EEZ exit FIGURE B-1 N:\AU\Brisbane\Projects\21\26628\GIS\MXD\Central\AB_21_26628_007_rev_1.mxd Data source: DNRM - Place names (2017). GHD - POP, Cable route (28 - Nov2017), Cable Corridor (2017). GA: Mainland, Bathymetry (2009), EEZ (2017). Created by: JCM Print date: 14 Dec 2017 - 11:05

B.2.2 Macroalgal Beds Subtidal rocky reefs in the Perth region are dominated by macroalgae, particularly Ecklonia radiata (kelp) (Wemberg and Goldberg, 2008) and Sargassum sp. (Phillips et al., 1997). Diverse assemblages of rhodophytes and chlorophytes make up mid-story species and subcanopy turfing algae communities are prevalent. These assemblages occur across a number of rocky reefs in the region (Wernberg and Goldberg, 2008).

B.2.3 Seagrasses Seagrass beds are known to be abundant in the region (Marmion Marine Park, east Rottnest Island) (Dye, 2009) and it is likely there are some patches of seagrass within the Project area. Seagrass provides important habitat for fish and invertebrates. Seagrass species in this region are dominated by Amphibolus griffithii, Posidonia sinuosa, P.australis and Halophila ovalis, and occur over a range of densities from isolated plants to >90% cover (DAL Science and Engineering, 2004).

B.2.4 Coral Reefs Corals reefs are not a recognised environmental feature of this region. However with reefs recognised at the nearby Rottnest Island, there are likely to be some hard coral individuals or small patches that may overlap with the Project area. Common coral Families within the region which could occur within the Project area include Goniastrea and Dendrophyllidae (MScience, 2012).

B.2.5 Soft Sediment The majority of the inshore benthic habitat around Perth consists of unvegetated soft sediment, ranging from silt closer to the Swan River mouth to coarse sands further away (Perth NRM, 2004). These sediments are important habitats for a variety of infauna and epibenthic invertebrates and fish, including some of commercial importance, such as blue swimmer crabs (Portunus pelagicus) and juvenile snapper (Pagrus auratus). Despite their importance, few ecological studies of these sediments have been done in the Perth region, although they have been extensively mapped by Perth NRM in 2004 and, DAL Science and Engineering in 2004.

B.2.6 Fisheries Resources The Southwest Transition Bioregion contains a mixture of temperate and sub-tropical fishery species. Several taxonomic surveys of invertebrates and fish have been undertaken over the last 40 or so years (Hyndes et al., 2003, Johnston et al., 2008). A recent survey of trawl fishing grounds in Cockburn Sound and Owen Anchorage found 216 taxa including 141 invertebrate and 75 fish taxa (Johnston et al., 2008). The diverse assemblages vary with habitat type. For example, the number of species and density of fish was found to be greater in beds of the seagrass Posidonia sinuosa than in beds of other seagrass species (Hyndes et al., 2003). Nearshore reef and seagrass assemblages are known to be important for juvenile recruitment into adult populations. Several finfish fisheries operate in the waters of the Perth region; the west coast estuarine fisheries target nine main finfish species, including sea mullet, western sand whiting and yellow- eye mullet; the Cockburn Sound finfish fisheries target southern sea garfish and Australian herring, with smaller catches of shark, whiting and mullet; the west coast beach fishery targets mainly sea mullet, blue sprat and western sand whiting; the west coast purse seine fishery

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targets pilchards and sardinella; and the west coast demersal scalefish fishery targets primarily West Australian dhufish and pink snapper (Fletcher and Head, 2006).

There are also a number of commercially and/or recreationally important marine invertebrate fishery species in the Perth region, including west coast rock lobster, roe’s abalone, blue swimmer crabs, scallops, prawns, octopus and squid (Dye, 2009). The western rock lobster fishery is reportedly one of Australia’s most valuable fisheries (DEWHA, 2008a) and lives inside the 50 m depth contour (DEWR, 2006).

The western demersal slope of the Central Western Province is also known to provide important habitat for fish communities with a high level of endemism. Typically demersal fish assemblages below a depth of 400 metres are dominated by relatively small benthic species such as grenadiers, dogfish and cucumber fish (Director of National Parks, 2013). Marine and coastal fisheries species disperse through both active and passive movement within their lifetimes. Most species have a larval phase which can last from a few days to months, during which time larvae are moved by the tides and currents (passive dispersal) and recruit to new populations (Sheaves et al., 2007; Smith, 2003; Watts and Johnson, 2004). Larval dispersal also results in rapid recolonisation of disturbed habitats and supplementation of small populations that are not self-sustaining (Barber et al., 2002; Crowder et al., 2000; Gaggiotti, 1996). Post larval phase, fish species actively move through their environment and are not dependent on passive dispersal (Roberts and Ayre, 2010). Consequently, post larval recruitment fisheries species are often able to move away from danger, disturbance or low-quality habitat(s). This active dispersal also allows organisms to colonise areas and move in search of suitable breeding or foraging resources (Kaunda-Arara and Rose, 2004). Installation of the cable directly on, or embedded into, the seabed has the potential to disturb fisheries species occurring in the direct path of activities. It also has potential to affect habitats fishery species may be dependent upon for breeding which could influence recruitment success.

B.2.7 State Protected Areas While the cable corridor does enter Western Australia (WA) State waters it does not enter any State marine protected areas. Figure B-2 illustrates the cable route in relation to state marine protected areas. The closest marine protected area to the cable route is Marmion Marine Park, which is over 1.5 km from its southern and western limits.

GHD | Report for Alcatel Submarine Networks - Indigo Central, 2126628 | 5 Marmion MP

P E R T H Swan Estuary - Milyu MP

Swan Estuary MP

Swan Estuary - Pelican Point MP

Swan Estuary - Alfred Cove MP

Shoalwater Islands MP

Legend Place names POP Cable route Cable corridor Mainland

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Horizontal Datum: GDA 1994 WA State marine protected areas Grid: GCS GDA 1994 and the Central cable corridor FIGURE B-2 N:\AU\Brisbane\Projects\21\26628\GIS\MXD\Central\AB_21_26628_008_rev_1.mxd Data source: DNRM - Place names (2017). GHD - POP, Cable route (28 - Nov2017), Cable Corridor (2017). GA: Mainland, Bathymetry (2009). CAPAD - Marine Park (2016). Created by: JCM Print date: 14 Dec 2017 - 11:06

B.3 Offshore Habitats The cable corridor extends from the nearshore environment across the Rottnest Shelf, it then passes around Cape Leeuwin at the south-west of Australia, before heading in a south-easterly direction. The cable then leaves the EEZ approximately 430 km south of Esperance, in a water depth (WD) of 5708 m (Figure B-3 ). The mainland Australian EEZ portion of the cable corridor crosses four provincial bioregions:  Southwest IMCRA Transition  Central Western Province  Southwest Transition  Southern Province Each of these bioregional provinces recognises biodiversity, cultural and heritage values of distinct areas; inclusive of matters protected under the EPBC Act. Further information regarding the communities and habitats which characterise each of these bioregions is provided following. Subsequent sections provide distinct information about matters listed under the EPBC Act of relevance to the proposed action.

GHD | Report for Alcatel Submarine Networks - Indigo Central, 2126628 | 7 Northwest Northwest Province IMCRA Legend Province Place names POP Cable route Central Western IMCRA Cable corridor Central Transition Mainland Western Transition

Central Western IMCRA Province

Central Western Southwest Province IMCRA Transition

P E R T H

Southwest Transition Southwest IMCRA Province

Southern Province

Paper Size ISO A4 ALCATEL SUBMARINE NETWORKS Project No. 21-26628 0 50 100 150 200 INDIGO Central Revision No. 1 Environmental Impact Assessment Date 14/12/2017 Kilometres Marine bioregions (DEWHA, 2008a) Horizontal Datum: GDA 1994 and the Central cable corridor Grid: GCS GDA 1994 from Perth to the EEZ exit FIGURE B-3 N:\AU\Brisbane\Projects\21\26628\GIS\MXD\Central\AB_21_26628_009_rev_1.mxd Data source: GHD - POP, Cable route (28 - Nov2017), Cable Corridor (2017). GA: Mainland, Bathymetry (2009). NDEHWA - Marine bioregions (2008a) Created by: JCM Print date: 14 Dec 2017 - 11:07

B.3.1 Southwest IMCRA Transition The cable runs from the nearshore environment across the Rottnest Shelf. This area experiences nutrient-rich cold-water upwellings allowing diverse sponge communities with significant diversity and structural complexity to occur. That in turn supports deep-diving mammals and a diverse assemblage of demersal fish.

Substrates and Geomorphology Soft sediments are likely to be the dominant benthic habitat for the vast majority of this bioregion. Sands can support a diverse range of benthic infauna, which consists predominantly of mobile burrowing species, including molluscs, crustaceans, polychaetes, sipunculids and echinoids. These, in turn, are prey species that support adult snappers and other fisheries resources (DEWHA, 2008a). Soft sediments play a key role in the cycling of nutrients in the ecosystem.

Marine Flora and Fauna Protected species are discussed in detail in Sections B.4. Benthic communities on the outer shelf are dominated by filter feeding sponges and bryozoans that support species of invertebrate grazers. Demersal fish communities in these areas are largely comprised of numerous species of snappers, grenadiers and whiptails (DEWR, 2006).

Fisheries Resources Commonwealth fisheries in this bioregion that intersect the cable corridor include:  Western tuna and billfish;  Western skip jack fishery; and  Southern bluefin tuna fishery.

B.3.2 Central Western Province The cable enters the Central Western Province through the mouth of the Perth canyon, as illustrated in Figure B-3 .

Substrates and Geomorphology This bioregion is entirely within Commonwealth waters; it does not include any state waters. It largely represents the Perth abyssal plain.

Perth canyon is the largest submarine canyon within Australian waters (DEWHA, 2008a) and is a biologically important area for blue whale feeding. This is discussed in more detail in Section B.4.

The Perth abyssal plain includes various seafloor features including deep holes, valleys, slopes, and terraces. It is likely to include largely soft sediments with smaller areas of harder substrate.

Marine Flora and Fauna Protected species are discussed in detail in Section B.4. Soft sediments in deep water are known to contain infauna that is dominated particularly by polychaete worms, peracarid crustaceans, and molluscs (Gage & Tyler 1991). Deep sea habitats are poorly understood as they are poorly studied compared to coastal areas. It is possible that on any hard substrate on seamounts or terraces, deep sea sponges and cold-water corals could be found. Seamounts are understood to be relative biodiversity ‘hotspots’ compared to the surrounding sediments and attract deep-sea fish species.

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Deepwater trawls undertaken on the slopes of this province in 2005 (McEnnulty et al., 2011) showed decreasing diversity with depth, largely comprising of decapods, echinoderms and molluscs. Krill seasonally aggregate at the head of the Perth canyon and this attracts blue whales and other deep-diving whales (DEWR, 2006).

Cold–water corals (soft and hard corals) are predicted to be present in all deep waters of oceans and filter feed from passing zooplankton. Where surveys have detected these, they have been most commonly found on continental shelves, slopes and carbonate mounds. These species are considered to be extremely slow growing. Filter feeding sponges are also found largely attached to hard substrate. They are known to be detrimentally effected by increased sediment loads that reduces their ability to feed and survive. Sponge gardens support high levels of diversity of other species. For instance, in deep waters surrounding the Faroe Islands, sponge fields are associated with approximately 250 species of invertebrates (UN, 2006) for which the sponges provide shelter and nursery.

Like cold-water corals, sponge species are characterized by their large size, slow growth rates and weak cementation, which makes them fragile and vulnerable to direct physical impact (Moreau and van den Hove, 2007). There are no known seamounts that may support highly diverse coral or sponge gardens within the cable route within this bioregion.

Fisheries Resources Commonwealth fisheries in this bioregion that intersect the cable corridor include:  Western tuna and billfish fishery  Western skip jack fishery  Western deepwater trawl fishery  Small pelagic fishery  Southern bluefin tuna fishery.

B.3.3 Southwest Transition The cable enters the Southwest Transition bioregion and travels south through the Naturaliste Trough, as illustrated in Figure B-3 .

Substrates and Geomorphology

This bioregion is entirely within Commonwealth waters and covers the southern parts of the Perth abyssal plain and the Naturaliste Plateau. Interrogation of the CSIRO marine benthic substrate database (2017) shows this bioregion to be dominated by calcareous ooze, with a banding of mud and sand around the submarine canyons extending from the Naturaliste Plateau. This Plateau is a geomorphically complex area of canyons and terraces.

There is a paucity of data and information from this bioregion, however the substrate and habitats are likely to have similarity to the deepwater environments of the Central Western Province (Section B.3.2).

Marine Flora and Fauna Protected species are discussed in detail in Sections B.4.

DEWR (2006) describe how 398 species of demersal fish have been described for this bioregion. This region is often considered to be the environmental boundary that distinguishes assemblages between southern and western Australia.

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Although there is limited biodiversity information from this bioregion, there are similarities to the marine flora and fauna Central Western Province (Section B.3.2) with nutrient-rich upwelling’s that attract feeding whales. There are also reportedly high occurrences of deep sea crabs on the sea floors, notably including the champagne and crystal crabs (DEWR, 2006). Due to upwellings and geomorphic complexities it is thought that there is likely to be a high degree of deepwater diversity and endemism (DEWHA, 2008a).

Fisheries Resources Commonwealth fisheries in this bioregion that intersect the cable corridor include:  Western tuna and billfish fishery  Western skip jack fishery  Western deepwater trawl fishery  Southern tuna and billfish fishery  Small pelagic fishery  Southern bluefin tuna fishery.

B.3.4 Southern Province Bioregion The cable enters the large Southern Province once past the Naturaliste Plateau, as illustrated in Figure B-3 , before exiting Australian EEZ waters approximately 430 km south of the Australian mainland.

Substrates and Geomorphology

This Southern Province bioregion is entirely within Commonwealth waters and is largely characterised as deepwater edged by continental slope, canyons and mid-slope terraces in the east. This bioregion also includes the Diamantina Fracture Zone which is likely to be a unique seafloor feature and is listed as a Key Ecological Feature (KEF) (DEWHA, 2008a). The cable corridor does not, however, intersect with this KEF.

Interrogation of the CSIRO marine benthic substrate database (2017) shows this area of the bioregion to include muds and sands, calcareous ooze and pelagic clays.

Marine Flora and Fauna Protected species are discussed in detail in Sections B.4. The majority of information on the benthic environment in this region comes from fish landings taken from the shelf break and slopes. Species commonly caught include:  orange roughy  blue grenadiers  Bight redfish  School, gummy and angel sharks  gemfish  deepwater flatheads  leatherjackets  latchets  stingrays and

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 stinageers. This region is likely an important spawning and aggregation area (DEWHA, 2008a). Currents and upwellings around the canyons produce nutrient-rich areas which also attract whales into this bioregion.

Fisheries Resources Commonwealth fisheries in this bioregion that intersect the cable corridor include:  Western skip jack fishery  Southern tuna and billfish fishery  Southern and eastern scalefish and shark fishery  Small pelagic fishery.

B.4 Matters of National Environmental Significance The following provides an assessment of matters of National Environmental Significance (NES) relevant to the cable corridor within the Perth EEZ. The EPBC Act PMST was used to identify matters of NES and other matters protected under the EPBC Act that are predicted to occur in, or relate to a defined area. That area applied for the PMST used the route of the proposed cable in the Perth EEZ, with a 10 km buffer area. This search area is referred to throughout this assessment as the ‘cable corridor’ to distinguish the 10 km area for assessment from the 10 m wide cable installation route. This search resulted in the following relevant matters being identified as intersecting with the search area:  One Commonwealth Marine Area  One Threatened ecological community  55 threatened species and  62 migratory species.

Further details for each of these matters, including proximity to the project and potential for impact to be realised, are provided in the following sections. No World Heritage, National Heritage or Wetlands of International Importance were identified as intersecting/overlapping with the cable corridor from the PMST report. The output of the PMST and coordinates for the cable corridor search area are provided in (Appendix E).

B.4.1 World Heritage The cable from Perth to the EEZ exit does not lie within the boundaries of or intersect with any world heritage places. The nearest marine or coastal world heritage place is at Shark Bay, Western Australia over 700 km to the north of the cable.

B.4.2 National Heritage The cable from Perth to the EEZ exit does not lie within the boundaries of or intersect with any national heritage places. The nearest marine or coastal national heritage place is at the Abrolhos Islands, Western Australia over 400 km to the north of the cable.

B.4.3 Wetlands of International Importance The cable from Perth to the EEZ exit does not lie within the boundaries of or intersect with any wetlands of international importance.

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B.4.4 Commonwealth Marine Areas The cable corridor traverses across the EEZ and the Territorial Sea. Under the EPBC Act Commonwealth Marine Areas are considered to be a matter of NES. To aid in the assessment of the potential impacts to Commonwealth Marine Areas, the Australian Government demarcated a set of KEFs that are considered important for biodiversity or ecosystem function of the areas. KEFs are designated under one or more of the following categories:  a species, group of species or a community with a regionally important ecological role (e.g. a predator, or a prey species that interacts significantly with a large biomass or number of other marine species)  a species, group of species or a community that is nationally or regionally important for biodiversity  an area or habitat that is nationally or regionally important for: – enhanced or high biological productivity (such as predictable upwellings), aggregations of marine life (such as feeding, resting, breeding or nursery areas) or – biodiversity and/or endemism or – a unique seafloor feature with known or presumed ecological properties of regional significance. The Protected Matters search identified five KEFs that overlap the proposed cable corridor. These KEFs are illustrated in Figure B-4 and described in Table B-1. Table B-1 KEFs that intersect proposed cable route from Perth to EEZ

KEF Description (taken from DoEE, 2017a)

Commonwealth marine These lagoons are considered important for primary environment within and productivity and recruitment for many marine species. There is adjacent to the west coast high biodiversity and high endemism. inshore lagoons

Western rock lobster The western rock lobster is an important part of the food web habitat in this region. Juvenile lobsters are preyed upon by a range of inshore species. The inshore lagoons of the Southwest Shelf Transition are important areas for the recruitment of the lobster, with most adults living between Perth and Geraldton.

Ancient coastline at 90- This KEF occurs along the entire width of south-west Australia. The value of this KEF is that is has relatively high productivity 120 m depth and aggregations of marine life, and high levels of biodiversity and endemism. The seabed of this escarpment is dominated by sponge communities of significant biodiversity and structural complexity. Western demersal slope The western demersal slope provides important habitat for and associated fish demersal fish communities. There is a high level of endemism. communities

Perth Canyon and adjacent Perth Canyon is the largest canyon on the Australian margin. It shelf break, and other west is thought to have higher biodiversity and productivity than coast canyons surrounding areas.

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Place names Perth Canyon POP and adjacent shelf break, and Cable route other west coast Cable corridor canyons Mainland Commonwealth Exclusive Economic marine Zone environment Australian within and Exclusive adjacent to Economic Zone Geographe Bay Marine Key Ecological Wallaby Saddle Features Naturaliste Western Plateau demersal slope and associated Diamantina fish communities Fracture Zone Albany Canyons Ancient coastline group and at 90-120m adjacent shelf depth break Commonwealth Commonwealth marine marine environment environment within and surrounding the adjacent to the Houtman west coast Abrolhos Islands inshore lagoons

P E R T H Western rock Cape Mentelle lobster upwelling

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Horizontal Datum: GDA 1994 KEFs and the Central cable corridor Grid: GCS GDA 1994 from Perth to the EEZ exit FIGURE B-4 N:\AU\Brisbane\Projects\21\26628\GIS\MXD\Central\AB_21_26628_010_rev_1.mxd Data source: GHD - POP, Cable route (28 - Nov2017), Cable Corridor (2017). GA: Mainland, Bathymetry (2009). DE - Key Ecological Features - (2017). Created by: JCM Print date: 14 Dec 2017 - 11:07

B.4.5 Listed Threatened Ecological Communities The cable route does not intersect any Threatened Ecological Communities (TECs). The 10 km buffer used on the PMST search does include the TEC Banksia Woodlands of the Swan Coastal Plain ecological community, however this project is entirely marine and there is no overlap with terrestrial ecosystems.

B.4.6 Listed Threatened Species Fifty-five listed threatened species were identified by the Protected Matters search as matters having the potential to occur within the Perth EEZ cable corridor. The wide buffer included some exclusively terrestrial species (eight plants, two mammals and three birds), that have been omitted from the further consideration, whilst shoreline species have been included. The species of relevance to assessment therefore included:  Six marine mammals  Four marine reptiles  Three sharks  29 birds  13 terrestrial species (comprising two mammals, three birds and eight plants). The presence of these species within the cable corridor may be informed by the presence of biologically important areas (BIAs), which are identified in the National Conservation Values Atlas. These are areas that are considered to be particularly important for the conservation of protected species and where aggregations of individuals display biologically important behaviour such as breeding, foraging, resting or migration. The South-West marine bioregional plan (DSEWPAC, 2012c) provides advice on rating potential risk to BIAs while noting that “Biologically important areas are not protected matters and should not be confused with ‘critical habitat’ as defined in the EPBC Act.” The Atlas has been reviewed to identify areas of BIA for protected species that occur along the proposed cable route. A likelihood of occurrence assessment was conducted to determine the likelihood of these listed threatened species, or species’ habitat, occurring within the cable corridor. This was undertaken for each species identified in the Protected Matters search relevant to assessment. A likelihood of occurrence ranking was attributed to each species based on the following framework: Unlikely to occur: species has not been recorded in the region AND/OR current known distribution does not encompass the cable corridor AND/OR suitable habitat is generally lacking from the cable corridor. May occur: mapped species’ distribution incorporates the cable corridor AND potentially suitable habitat occurs within the cable corridor. Likely to occur: species has been recorded in the region and potentially suitable habitat is present within the cable corridor. The following sections detail the likelihood of occurrence assessments and rankings for each species identified in the Protected Matters search, including life history and habitat information which was used to inform the assessments.

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Marine Mammals The Protected Matters search identified six threatened marine mammal species as relevant to the cable corridor from Perth to the Perth EEZ exit point. Table B-2 provides an overview of known habitat requirements for each of the species, and a likelihood of occurrence assessment based on this information.

Table B-2 Threatened Marine Mammals – Mainland Australian (Perth) to EEZ exit Species name Status Habitat description and Likelihood of occurrence availability within the cable route within the cable route Australian sea-lion V The Australian sea-lion is May to occur (Neophoca cinerea) endemic to Australia and found This species may forage only in WA and SA. Breeding in the northern extents of regularly occurs in areas north the cable POP. of Perth (Figure B-5); however, there is regular foraging activity in the northern coastal extents of the cable route; an area which is recognised to be a BIA for this species. Blue whale En, Mig The Perth Canyon upwelling Likely to occur (Balaenoptera musculus) and the surrounding area is a The pygmy blue whale - pygmy blue whale known foraging ground and sub-species is likely to species are thought to spend (Balaenoptera musculus occur in the Perth Canyon extended periods of time in this brevicauda) foraging area and may region. As such this area is transit the cable corridor - southern blue whale listed as BIA, with these whales (Balaenoptera musculus during annual migrations. arriving in November, peaking in intermedia) March to May, and leaving by - northern blue whale June (McCauley et al., 2004) (Balaenoptera musculus Migratory pathways are known musculus) to exist between WA and Indonesia. Fin whale V, Mig While fin whales are a Likely to occur (Balaenoptera physalus) cosmopolitan species occurring This species is likely to from polar to tropical waters transit the cable corridor their distribution in Australian during migrations in waters is known primarily from deeper waters. It may stranding events and whaling occur within the cable records. Reported sightings of corridor around feeding this species in Australia have habitat for this species. included all states except New South Wales (NSW) and Northern Territory (NT); this species has been recorded off the Rottnest Trench in WA. Available information suggests that this species is more commonly present in deeper waters.

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Species name Status Habitat description and Likelihood of occurrence availability within the cable route within the cable route Areas of upwelling (may include Perth Canyon) may be an important feature of fin whale feeding habitat (DoEE, 2017b). Humpback whale V, Mig Along the Australian coastline Likely to occur (Megaptera novaeangliae) humpback whales have a This species may transit number of key calving, migration the area during and resting areas. The western migrations. migration pathway crosses the cable-laying route. Humpback whales travel south for the summer in the Antarctic, with peak travel in November and December. The whales return north during April and May. As such, the first 60 km of coastal waters are listed as BIAs for migration. Sei whale V, Mig Sei whales have defined May to occur (Balaenoptera borealis) migratory movements between This species may transit polar, temperate and tropical the area during waters moving between migrations. Australian waters and Antarctic feeding areas. The species is infrequently recorded in Australian waters and is similar in appearance to Bryde’s whales, resulting in confusion about this species’ distributional limits (DoEE, 2017b). Southern right whale En, Mig The major calving areas for this Likely to occur (Eubalaena australis) species are generally restricted This species is likely to to waters off south Western transit the cable corridor Australia, South Australia and during annual migrations. Victoria. As such, the first 20 km There may be calving of coastal waters are listed as activity around Perth. BIAs for calving. Core habitat is coastal waters between Perth and Sydney with the species range extending to coastal waters off Exmouth (WA). Migration occurs between higher and mid latitudes (DoEE, 2017b). Figure B-6 and Figure B-7 illustrate known sighting and aggregation areas. Note: CE: Critically Endangered; En: Endangered; V: Vulnerable; Mig: Migratory.

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Figure B-5 Known location of Australian sea-lion breeding colonies (taken from Rogers et al., 2013)

Figure B-6 Coastal aggregation areas for the southern right whale (taken from DSEWPC, 2012a)

Figure B-7 Tracks of three tagged southern right whales in 2014 (taken from Mackey et al., 2015)

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Marine Reptiles The Protected Matters search identified four threatened marine reptile species as relevant to the cable corridor from Perth to the EEZ exit point. Table B-3 provides an overview of known habitat requirements for each of the species, and a likelihood of occurrence assessment based on this information.

Table B-3 Threatened Marine Reptiles – Mainland Australian (Perth) to EEZ exit Species name Status Habitat description and availability Likelihood of occurrence within within the cable corridor the cable corridor Flatback turtle V, Mig The species is largely inhabits May occur (Natator depressus) tropical waters from Exmouth The cable corridor is not (WA) to southern Queensland considered core habitat for this (QLD) with the Kimberley region species. This species may an important nesting area. occur in the area as a transient Feeding grounds are mostly over visitor to shallow areas of the the Australian continental shelf northern cable extent. and off eastern Indonesian waters. Migration is usually restricted to the continental shelf although there are numerous records of the species in waters off the continental shelf. Suitable soft bottom habitat exists within a portion of the cable route. Green turtle V, Mig Species is distributed throughout May occur (Chelonia mydas) Australian coastal warm The cable route is not temperate to tropical seas. considered core habitat for this Nesting occurs throughout species. The species may northern Australia with key occur only in the shallow breeding grounds occurring in coastal waters near the POP. northern WA. Following hatching, neonate and juvenile turtles remain in pelagic and offshore waters until they reach approximately 30 to 40 cm carapace length (DoEE, 2017b). Adults are commonly encountered in seagrass beds and in proximity to macroalgal benthic habitats (DoEE, 2017b). Given this species preference for shallow waters, it is very unlikely to be encountered in the majority of the cable laying area, with the exception of the immediate area around the pop-out point and coastal waters around Perth.

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Species name Status Habitat description and availability Likelihood of occurrence within within the cable corridor the cable corridor Leatherback turtle En, Mig Circum-globally distributed in May occur (Dermochelys warm temperate to tropical seas. The majority of the cable route coriacea) The species occurs in open is not considered core habitat ocean basins, making landfall to for this species. This species nest at known locations. Nesting may occur in the area as a in WA is unconfirmed (Limpus, transient visitor. 2008b). This species feeds on soft-bodied invertebrates, including jellyfish, therefore this species may occur in offshore waters within the vicinity of the cable corridor. Loggerhead turtle En, Mig Widely distributed throughout May occur (Caretta caretta) Australian coastal and offshore The cable route is not zones (DoEE, 2017b). Nesting considered core habitat for this sites for the species occur species. The species may throughout northern Australia occur only in the shallow from southern Queensland coastal waters near the POP. through to Shark Bay in WA (Limpus, 2008a). Suitable foraging habitat includes coral reefs, rocky reefs, seagrass beds and inshore embayments. This species has been recorded in the Perth region (DoEE, 2017b). Given this species preference for shallow waters, it is very unlikely to be encountered in the majority of the cable laying area, with the exception of the immediate area around the pop-out point and coastal waters around Perth. Note: CE: Critically Endangered; En: Endangered; V: Vulnerable; Mig: Migratory.

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Sharks The Protected Matters search identified three threatened marine fish species as relevant to the cable corridor from Perth to the EEZ exit point. Table B-4 provides an overview of known habitat requirements for each of the species, and a likelihood of occurrence assessment based on this information. Table B-4 Threatened Sharks – Mainland Australian (Perth) to EEZ exit Species name Status Habitat description and availability within Likelihood of occurrence the cable route within the cable route Great white shark V, Mig The species is widely but sparsely Likely occur (Carcharodon distributed predominantly throughout This species is likely to carcharias) temperate Australia, with individuals occur in the area given known to undertake migrations into sub- the species distribution tropical and tropical waters (north-west and prevalence in WA) (Bruce et al., 2005; DoEE, 2017b; temperate coastal waters Norman, 2005). of Australia. It is primarily found in the coastal and offshore areas of the continental and insular shelves and offshore continental islands (Cavanagh et al., 2003; Bruce et al., 2005), and near pinniped colonies. Grey nurse shark CE The species is distributed throughout May occur (west coast Australian coastal waters, with the west The majority of the cable population) coast population largely found in the route is not considered (Carcharias taurus) south-west waters off WA (sub-tropical core habitat for this to temperate) (Last and Stevens, 2009). species. This species may They have been found to migrate along occur in the shallower the western coastline (DoEE, 2017b). area as a transient visitor. They aggregate around inshore rocky reefs or islands, typically near the bottom in deep sandy or gravel-filled gutters, or in rocky caves, though key aggregation sites crucial to their survival have not been identified in WA or SA waters (DoEE, 2017b). Whale shark V, Mig The whale shark is a migratory species Unlikely to occur (Rhincodon typus) that has a broad distribution in tropical The cable route is not and warm temperate oceans. It is often considered core habitat seen in waters of northern WA with for this species. Ningaloo Reef (between November and December) and Christmas Island (during December and January) (Last and Stevens, 2009; Threatened Species Scientific Committee, 2015). There are no known aggregation areas known to occur within the cable laying route. Note: CE: Critically Endangered; En: Endangered; V: Vulnerable; Mig: Migratory.

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Birds The Protected Matters search identified 29 threatened marine bird species as relevant to the cable corridor from Perth to the EEZ exit point. Table B-5 provides an overview of known habitat requirements for each of the species, and a likelihood of occurrence assessment based on this information. Table B-5 Threatened Birds – Mainland Australian (Perth) to EEZ exit

Species name Status Habitat description and availability within Likelihood of the cable route occurrence within the cable route Amsterdam albatross En, The Amsterdam Albatross is a non-resident May occur (Diomedea Mig visitor to Australia and may occur in south- This species may amsterdamensis) west and southern Australian waters occur in the area as a (DoEE, 2017b). The number of visiting transient visitor while albatross to Australian waters in unknown foraging. and given the very low number of known individuals (approximately 130 globally), it is likely to be very few. It is a marine seabird which forages in open water and sleeps and rests on ocean waters when not breeding (Marchant and Higgins, 1990). Antipodean albatross V The species is a pelagic marine bird which Likely to occur (Diomedea rests and sleeps in open water and breeds It is unknown if core antipodensis) on oceanic islands. Dispersal patterns are habitat for this species poorly understood. Species recorded is found within the migrating from Gough Island to south- cable route; however western WA, southern SA to NSW (DoEE, individuals are likely to 2017b). transit the corridor. Australasian bittern En The species occurs from south-east QLD to Unlikely to occur (Botaurus south-east SA, Tasmania (TAS) and in the This species is likely to south-west of WA. The Australasian poiciloptilus) occur on the coastline Bittern’s preferred habitat is comprised of of the cable corridor. wetlands with tall dense vegetation, where All works will be it forages in still, shallow water up to 0.3 m entirely marine deep, often at the edges of pools or commencing 1 km waterways, or from platforms or mats of offshore. As such, this vegetation over deep water. It favours species is unlikely to permanent and seasonal freshwater occur. habitats, particularly those dominated by sedges, rushes and reeds growing over a muddy or peaty substrate (TSSC, 2011). Australian fairy tern V The Australia fairy tern nests on sheltered May occur (Sternula nereis sandy beaches, spits and banks above the This species may nereis) high tide line and below vegetation. The occur in the area while subspecies has been found in embayments foraging. of a variety of habitats including offshore and mainland coastline. The bird roosts on beaches at night (Higgins & Davies 1996).

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Species name Status Habitat description and availability within Likelihood of the cable route occurrence within the cable route Fairy tern habitat is known to occur in nearshore area and may travel around the nearshore area of the cable at Perth. Australian lesser V The species nesting grounds are Houtman Unlikely to occur noddy Abrolhos Islands and potentially Ashmore The cable route is not (Anous tenuirostris Reef in WA. Birds remain near nesting considered or within melanops) grounds however, individuals can be the vicinity of their displaced during gales (DoEE, 2017b). breeding colonies. They are thought to be mainly sedentary and resident and tend to stay near their breeding islands, but may leave for short periods, foraging out to sea (Higgins and Davies, 1996). The Abrolhos Islands are more than 300 km to the north of the cable route. Australian painted En The Australian painted snipe has been Unlikely to occur most commonly recorded in wetlands in snipe Core habitat for this (Rostratula australis) eastern Australia with a small distribution in species is not found south-western WA. This species generally within the nearshore inhabits freshwater wetlands and water cable corridor. logged grassland or saltmarsh (Marchant and Higgins, 1993). Bar-tailed godwit V, Mig These bar-tailed godwits are coastal birds Unlikely to occur (baueri), western occurring in most suitable habitats in The cable route is not Alaskan bar-tailed Australia (DoEE, 2017b). This species does known as habitat for godwit not breed in Australia. these birds. (Limosa lapponica These birds are known to feed on baueri) shorelines only and are not marine birds. Northern Siberian CE, bar-tailed godwit, Mig bar-tailed godwit (menzbieri) (Limosa lapponica menzbieri) Black-browed V, Mig A pelagic species that occurs throughout May occur albatross Antarctic, sub-Antarctic and sub-tropical This species may (Thalassarche waters (Marchant and Higgins, 1990). occur in the area as a melanophris) Breeding occurs on sub-Antarctic and transient visitor while Antarctic islands (Marchant and Higgins, foraging. 1990).The black-browed albatross migrates to the continental shelves of South America, South Africa, New Zealand and Australia during the winter months (Marchant and Higgins, 1990).

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Species name Status Habitat description and availability within Likelihood of the cable route occurrence within the cable route Offshore waters within the cable corridor may provide suitable foraging habitat for the species. Blue petrel V The blue petrel is a marine seabird, Likely to occur (Halobaena breeding on sub-Antarctic islands in the This species is likely to caerulea) summer and departing colonies from late fly over the area as a January to early March. In Australia it has transient visitor. been recorded between August and October (DoEE, 2017b). The blue petrel has been recorded in the Perth area.

Campbell albatross, V The species is known to forage over the Unlikely to occur Campbell black- continental shelf off NSW, Victoria and This species is unlikely browed albatross Tasmania (DoEE, 2017b). The only known to occur in the area. (Thalassarche breeding area for this species is Campbell impavida) Island, off the southern coast of New Zealand (DoEE, 2017b; Marchant and Higgins, 1990).

Curlew sandpiper CE, The curlew sandpiper is a coastal bird Unlikely to occur (Calidris ferruginea) Mig occurring in most suitable habitats in The cable route is not Australia. They occur in large numbers in known as habitat for north-west Australia (DoEE, 2017b). There this bird. are no known breeding colonies on offshore islands around the cable route. Breeds only in Siberia (DoEE, 2017b). Leaves breeding grounds in July and August. Arrives in Australia in late August and early September (Higgins and Davies, 1996). Flocks stopover in northern Australia before moving on to south-eastern Australia. Majority of birds arrive in September. Return migration commences in March (DoEE, 2017b) This bird is known to feed on shorelines only and is not a marine bird. Eastern curlew, far CE, The eastern curlew is a migratory Unlikely to occur eastern curlew Mig shorebird, found more frequently in north The cable route is not (Numenius and eastern Australia. It does not breed in known as habitat for madagascariensis) Australia. Breeds in northern hemisphere, this bird. migrating into Australia in boreal winter. Arrives in eastern Australia, such as NSW, from mid-August to December (DoEE, 2017b; Marchant and Higgins, 1993) This bird is known to feed on shorelines only and is not a marine bird.

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Species name Status Habitat description and availability within Likelihood of the cable route occurrence within the cable route Fairy prion V In Australia, breeding occurs on Macquarie Unlikely to occur (southern) Island and Bishop and Clerk Island. It Core habitat for this (Pachyptila turtur forages over deep coastal waters, feeding species is not found subantarctica) on food from the ocean surface. During within the cable route. winter, some species are known to migrate This species is unlikely to New Zealand and southern Australia to fly over the cable (DoEE, 2017b). corridor. Great knot CE, The great knot is a coastal bird occurring in Unlikely to occur (Calidris tenuirostris) Mig most suitable habitats in Australia. The cable route is not Important sites for this bird are known in known as habitat for northern Australia (DoEE, 2017b). There this bird. are no known breeding colonies on offshore islands around the cable route. This bird is known to feed on shorelines only and is not a marine bird. Great sand plover, V, Mig The great sand plover is a coastal bird Unlikely to occur large sand plover occurring in most suitable habitats in The cable route is not (Charadrius Australia. They occur in large numbers in known as habitat for leschenaultii) northern Australia and much more this bird. numerous in south-west Australia (DoEE, 2017b). There are no known breeding colonies on offshore islands around the cable route. This bird is known to feed on shorelines only and is not a marine bird. Indian yellow-nosed V Indian yellow-nosed albatross is known to Likely to occur albatross forage in areas south of Kangaroo Island This species is likely to (Thalassarche and all seas off the Victorian and occur in the area as a carteri) Tasmanian coasts, together with the transient visitor while southwest coast of WA. This species foraging. breeds on sub-Antarctic islands and visits WA between January and November, usually in small flocks but sometimes in aggregations of up to 3,000 individuals. Indian yellow-nosed albatross are common in the area between Cape Naturaliste and King George Sound (Albany) in southwest WA during July and August. This area is listed a BIA for foraging for these species (DoEE, 2017b). Lesser sand plover, En, The lesser sand plover is a coastal bird Unlikely to occur Mongolian plover Mig occurring in most suitable habitats in The cable route is not (Charadrius Australia. They are more frequently found known as habitat for mongolus) in northern and eastern Australia but are this bird. notably less numerous in south-west Australia (DoEE, 2017b). There are no

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Species name Status Habitat description and availability within Likelihood of the cable route occurrence within the cable route known breeding colonies on offshore islands around the cable route. This bird is known to feed on shorelines only and is not a marine bird. Northern giant petrel V, Mig Breeding occurs on sub-Antarctic islands Likely to occur (Macronectes halli) and in South Georgia (Marchant and This species is likely to Higgins, 1990). Adult northern giant-petrels occur in the area as a generally remain close to breeding areas transient visitor while year-round; however, juveniles undertake foraging. long dispersal events, although these movements are not well-understood (Marchant and Higgins, 1990). This species is commonly seen in the winter months in the inshore and offshore waters of Fremantle (WA) east to Sydney (NSW) although more northern sightings have been recorded (Pizzey and Knight, 1999). Offshore waters within the cable route provide suitable foraging habitat for the species. Northern royal En Within Australian waters, this species Likely to occur albatross occurs in the coastal and marine aerial This species is likely to (Diomedea sanfordi) habitats in the southern Indian Ocean and occur in the area as a south-eastern Australia to Antarctica. It is a transient visitor while migratory bird with breeding taking place off foraging. the coast of New Zealand (DoEE, 2017b). The species is pelagic and aerial (Marchant and Higgins, 1990). Offshore waters within the cable route provide suitable foraging habitat for the species. Red knot En, The red knot is a coastal bird occurring in Unlikely to occur (Calidris canutus) Mig most suitable habitats in Australia. They The cable route is not occur in large numbers in north-west known as habitat for Australia but are notably less numerous in this bird. south-west Australia (DoEE, 2017b). There are no known breeding colonies on offshore islands around the cable route. This bird is known to feed on shorelines only and is not a marine bird. Shy albatross, V, Mig Occurs in Australian waters below 25 °S, May occur Tasmanian shy but is most frequently observed off This species is may albatross southeast Australia and Tasmania occur in the area as a (Thalassarche cauta (Brothers et al., 1997; Hedd et al., 2001). It transient visitor while cauta) appears to be less pelagic than other foraging. albatrosses, ranging well inshore over the

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Species name Status Habitat description and availability within Likelihood of the cable route occurrence within the cable route continental shelf (DoEE, 2017b). It is endemic to Australian territory with no shy albatross breeding occurring outside of the Australian EEZ, although they have been known to migrate as far as South Africa or South America (Marchant and Higgins, 1990). Soft-plumaged petrel V The species is a migratory coastal bird that Likely to occur (Pterodroma mollis) is thought to be common of the coast of WA This species is likely to o o between 30 and 50 S. Breeding is occur in the area as a believed to take place on southern transient visitor while Australian islands and there is a general foraging. northerly dispersion after chicks fledge during May to June (DoEE, 2017b). Offshore areas from the Abrolhos to Albany are listed as a BIAs for foraging for this species. Sooty albatross V, Mig A pelagic species that forages south of 30° May occur (Phoebetria fusca) S, in the southern Indian and Atlantic This species is may Oceans. The Sooty albatross breeds on occur in the area as a islands in the southern Indian and Atlantic transient visitor while Oceans (Marchant & Higgins 1990). foraging. Australian distribution is largely QLD, NSW, VIC,TAS, and south-western WA. Offshore waters within the cable corridor provide may contain suitable habitat but it is unlikely. Southern giant- En, The southern giant petrel occurs from Likely to occur petrel, southern giant Mig Antarctic to subtropical waters. The petrel This species is likely to petrel spends the majority of the warmer months occur in the area as a (Macronectes of the year in the southern extents of its transient visitor while giganteus) distribution range, before leaving for foraging. warmer waters during winter, including the southern portion Australia. The petrel breeds once a year between August and September, returning from worldwide foraging locations. Offshore waters within the cable route provide suitable foraging habitat for the species. Southern royal V, Mig Feeding areas for the southern royal Likely to occur albatross albatross are mostly between Western This species is likely to (Diomedea Australia and South America in the occur in the area as a epomophora) Southern Ocean. Overwinter areas include transient visitor while New Zealand, south-eastern Australian and foraging.

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Species name Status Habitat description and availability within Likelihood of the cable route occurrence within the cable route Chilean waters, and the southern Indian Ocean (Robertson and Kinsky, 1972). This species is moderately common in offshore waters of southern Australia (Pizzey and Knight, 1999). Offshore waters within the cable corridor may provide suitable foraging habitat for the species. Tristan albatross E, Mig The Tristan albatross is a marine, pelagic May occur (Diomedea seabird that forages in open water in the This species may dabbenena) Atlantic Ocean near the Cape of Good occur in the area as a Hope, South Africa and rests and sleeps on transient visitor while ocean waters when not breeding (Marchant foraging. and Higgins, 1990). Outside of breeding seasons, this albatross is known to disperse to south-west Australia (DoEE, 2017b). Wandering albatross V, Mig The species undertakes extensive circum- May occur Diomedea exulans polar migrations. Breeding areas are This species may confined to Antarctic and sub-Antarctic occur in the area as a islands in the Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean transient visitor while and waters off the southern coast of New foraging. Zealand. There are a number of wandering albatross that migrate during the non- breeding season between 30o and 50o S (Nicholls and Robertson, 2007). Juveniles migrate from their natal grounds to the subtropical Indian Ocean and Tasman Sea (Weimerskirch et al., 2006). Offshore waters within the cable corridor provide suitable foraging habitat for the species. White-capped V Common off the coast of southeast Likely to occur albatross Australia (DoEE, 2017b). Breeding takes This species is likely to (Thalassarche cauta place off the south coast of New Zealand occur in the area as a steadi) (Marchant and Higgins, 1990). Little is transient visitor while known of the breeding biology or migration foraging. patterns of this species (DoEE, 2017b). Extensive records exist along coastline and oceanic waters from approximately Exmouth (WA) to south-western WA. Offshore waters within the cable range provide suitable foraging habitat for the species. Note: CE: Critically Endangered; En: Endangered; V: Vulnerable; Mig: Migratory.

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B.4.7 Listed Migratory Species Sixty-two listed migratory species were identified by the Protected Matters Search as matters having the potential to occur within the cable corridor. One terrestrial bird was also recorded but has been omitted as it has no life history characteristics that would result in it interacting/overlapping with the cable corridor. The listed migratory species relevant to assessment therefore include:  11 marine mammals (of which five are threatened and assessed in Section B.4.6)  Four reptiles (of which all are threatened and assessed in Section B.4.6)  Six sharks and rays (of which two are threatened and assessed in Section B.4.6)  41 birds (of which 14 are threatened and assessed in Section B.4.6).

Remaining 37 species not assessed in the previous sections are described and assessed in Table B-6. Table B-6 Listed Migratory Species – Mainland Australian (Perth) to EEZ Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route Mammals

Antarctic minke The distribution of this species in Migrates between Likely to occur whale, dark- WA is unknown. However, they winter tropical/sub- This species is likely to shoulder minke are known to occur offshore tropical breeding transit the area during whale within cold temperate to grounds to Antarctic annual migrations. (Balaenoptera Antarctic waters (DoEE, 2017b). feeding grounds in bonaerensis) summer. Calving occurs in warmer waters during late May and early June after winter migration from Antarctic waters (DoEE, 2017b). Bryde's whale A small baleen whale that is not Patterns of migration Likely to occur (Balaenoptera considered gregarious. Inhabits are not clearly This species is likely to edeni) tropical and warm temperate understood. Some transit the area during waters. Travels alone or in pairs. evidence that the annual migrations. Small population estimated from offshore form may Australian waters (DoEE, migrate to tropical 2017b). water during winter (DoEE, 2017b). Dusky dolphin Small dolphin species mainly Long distance Unlikely to occur (Lagenorhyncus found in temperate and sub- migrations have Species rarely recorded obscurus) Antarctic waters, generally been reported from along the WA coastline. inshore. Rarely reported in around the world. The species is unlikely Australia, no calving areas have Little information is to be in deep offshore been identified in Australian available on waters. waters (DoEE, 2017b). migratory movements or timing of this species in the spill trajectory area, all though there is a

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route potential seasonal link.

Killer whale, Pelagic species often inhabiting Killer whales make Likely to occur orca waters on the continental shelf. seasonal migrations, This species is likely to (Orcinus orca) Distributed along the Australian and may follow occur in the area as a coast, but most frequently regular migratory transient visitor. observed around Tasmania, pathways; however South Australia and Victoria. this has not been Macquarie Island (southern proven. No specific Indian Ocean) is an important information on region for the species (DoEE, migratory pathways 2017b). Bremer Canyon in far along the WA coast south-west region is an is documented. important aggregation area. Killer whales have been recorded relocating to Antarctic waters during summer months and back to warmer waters during winter. This suggests that during the winter months would be the highest likelihood of occurrence of killer whales outside of the Antarctic. Pygmy right Pygmy right whales have Patterns of migration Likely to occur whale primarily been recorded in areas are not clearly This species is likely to (Caperea associated with upwellings and understood (DoEE, transit the area during marginata) with high zooplankton 2017b). In Australian annual migrations. abundance. waters, weaned juveniles migrate south where prey is more abundant (Kemper, 2002). Sperm whale Largest of the toothed whales. Little information is Likely to occur (Physeter Gregarious species that forms available on This species may transit macrocephalus) an average pod size of 25 migratory pathways the deeper areas during individuals. Females and young or timing within the annual migrations. males restricted to warmer spill trajectory area. Core habitat for this waters. They inhabit deep Moves in southerly species is south-west of oceanic waters (usually >600 m direction for summer the cable corridor. deep) and may also occur closer months and northerly to the coast around continental direction in winter shelf areas, however they are months. more likely to occur in deeper

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route waters off of the continental shelf along the WA coastline (DoEE, 2017b). Sharks and rays

Giant manta ray Reaching at least 6.7 m, the The species has a May occur (Manta birostris) giant manta ray is the largest ray circum-tropical The species may occur species (Last and Stevens, distribution, with the in the area as a 2009). The species is a filter most frequently transient visitor. feeder, with a diet predominantly reported records comprising of small planktonic occurring off tropical organisms. Australia (Last and The species is known to occur Stevens, 2009). The off WA. species occasionally migrates into temperate waters (Last and Stevens, 2009). Porbeagle, Temperate and cold-temperate Known to move Likely to occur mackerel shark shark species, world-wide thousands of This species is likely to (Lamna nasus) distribution. Coastal and oceanic kilometres around occur in the area. species, more common on temperate water continental shelves (Stevens et band surrounding al, 2006). the globe. No information is available on migratory timing. Reef manta ray The smallest of the manta The species is found May occur (Manta alfredi) species, not exceeding 5 m disc in all three of the The may occur in the width (distance between two world's major nearshore area as a wing tips) (Mantaray-World, oceans, although transient visitor. 2014). most commonly The species is known to occur encountered in the off WA. Indian Ocean and south Pacific. Key aggregation sites include: Hawaii, Australia, Komodo, Maldives, Yap, Palau, Bali, and Southern Mozambique (MantaMatcher, 2017). Shortfin mako Offshore littoral and epipelagic Known to migrate Likely to occur (Isurus shark species found in depths up distances >3000 km. The species is likely to oxyrinchus) to 500 m. Widespread Little information on occur in the area. throughout tropical and migratory patterns or timing

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route temperate oceans worldwide (Cailliet et al., 2009).

Birds Bar-tailed A wading bird that occurs in Undertakes Unlikely to occur godwit coastal habitats and brackish migrations south The species is unlikely (Limosa wetlands. Forages in sheltered from breeding to be found outside of lapponica) intertidal areas, including grounds in the shallow coastline beaches. Roosts on sandy Northern waters. beaches, sandbars and spits Hemisphere. Depart (Marchant and Higgins, 1993). for Australia in July, and arrive in August in northwest Australia at which point small numbers disperse throughout Australia. Commences the return journey in February (Marchant and Higgins, 1993). Black-tailed The black-tailed godwit occurs Breeds in the May occur godwit singly or in small or large northern The may occur in the (Limosa limosa) groups, within the coastal fringes hemisphere, and nearshore area as a of Australia, including south- migrates into transient visitor. western WA. Inhabits sheltered Australia from late estuaries, bays and lagoons with August, (Higgins and intertidal sandflats or mudflats Davies, 1996). (DoEE, 2017b). Returns to breeding grounds from late summer into early Autumn (DoEE, 2017b). Bridled tern Medium sized tern that is Migratory or partly Likely to occur (Onychoprion widespread around tropical and migratory in This species is known to anaethetus) sub-tropical regions of Australia, Australia. Migration forage in the northern they are most common on of WA population extent of the cable route offshore islands as opposed to appears to be to the in WA waters. coastal areas. Breeding north to Indonesian populations exists in north-west waters (DoEE, Australia. 2017b). The majority of coastal waters Birds return to from Kalbarri to east of breeding colonies at Esperance are listed as a BIA for various island foraging for this tern. The locations throughout northern extent of the cable northern WA intersects this area. between late September and mid-

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route October and leave from early May to mid-September. Caspian tern Commonly found in sheltered Little information is Likely to occur (Hydroprogne waters, but can also be found in available regarding This species is known to caspia) open coastal waters. Diet migratory forage in the northern consists predominantly of fish, movements or timing extent of the cable route caught by diving into the water throughout the NW in WA waters. column. Breeds in small colonies of Australia. Birds throughout north-west Australia may move from (DEWHA, 2008b). coastal breeding The majority of coastal waters colonies to inland from Kalbarri to east of non-breeding areas. Esperance are listed as a BIA for Birds are also known foraging for this tern. The to disperse widely in northern extent of the cable the range of intersects this area. thousands of kilometres (DoEE, 2017b). Common The species occurs singly or in The species breeds May occur greenshank small to large flocks along in the Palaearctic, The may occur in the (Tringa coastal and inland wetlands. It migrating south for nearshore area as a nebularia) has been recorded in most the boreal winter. transient visitor. coastal regions of Australia Arrives in Australia (DoEE, 2017b). from August (DoEE, 2017b). Common noddy Mainly occurs across much of Migratory patterns Likely to occur (Anous stolidus) Queensland’s coast, north- are poorly known. This species is known to western and central coastal WA, Outside of breeding forage in the northern particularly at the Abrolhos season, islands extent of the cable route Islands (DoEE, 2017b). including Norfolk and in WA waters. The offshore areas from Perth Lord Howe are north to Jurien Bay are known as completely deserted. BIAs for foraging for this bird. Species are known to forage far from shore, and kilometres from breeding grounds (DoEE, 2017b). Common Recordings are scattered across The species migrate Unlikely to occur redshank, Australian in wetland habitats to Europe and Asia, This species is unlikely redshank Most common in north and west this includes the to utilise the waters the (Tringa totanus) Australia. In WA scattered East Asia- south-west that overlap distributions are in the north- Australasian Flyway with the cable corridor. west and south-west of the state (DoEE, 2017b).

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route Common This sandpiper is a shoreline This sandpiper Unlikely to occur sandpiper bird common to most coastlines breeds in Eurasia The species is unlikely (Actitis of Australia. It forages in shallow and migrates south to be found outside of hypoleucos) marine, estuarine and freshwater arriving from July shallow coastline environments. onwards. waters. Double-banded Gregarious with other wading Partly migratory and Unlikely to occur plover species. Found in wetlands, generally dispersive. The species is unlikely (Charadrius beaches, saltmarshes and Majority of to be found outside of bicinctus) grassy flats. Breeds in New population migrates shallow coastline Zealand (Marchant and Higgins, to northern New waters. 1993). Zealand, southeast This species is known to Australia or occasional occur in WA. southwest Australia for winter period (Marchant and Higgins, 1993). Fleshy-footed A large broad-winged, blackish- The shearwater Likely to occur shearwater brown shearwater, it typically migrates between This species is known to (Ardenna forages and moves over breeding colonies in aggregate and forage in carneipes) continental shelves and slopes the southern Indian the region. and occasionally inshore waters and south-western (BirdLife International, 2017a). Pacific Oceans west Mainly occurs (and breeds) off to South Africa, north southern Australia. to the Arabian Sea, The cable route intersects part of Maldives and Sri and runs adjacent to two BIAs Lanka, and north- for this bird. The northern extent west to the Pacific of the cable runs adjacent to a Ocean (DoEE, known aggregation area, and the 2017b). southern route of the cable The birds depart intersects the northern extent of western colonies at their known foraging areas. the completion of the breeding season (September to early May).

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route Fork-tailed swift The fork-tailed swift is a non- The fork-tailed swift May occur (Apus pacificus) breeding visitor to all states and usually arrives in Whilst this bird does not territories of Australia (Higgins Australia around forage at sea, it may 1999) and is almost exclusively October; some arrive traverse to coastal and aerial and mainly occur over early in September, offshore islands around foothills an in coastal areas in however, this is rare. the northern extent of Australia. Some birds have the cable route in WA Widespread across most areas been sighted in WA waters. of Australia, they have been arriving between recorded in both nearshore and October–November. offshore islands in WA. Flocks have been recorded near Broome on southward passage across the continent. The birds are believed not to cross via the Torres Strait on a regular basis, instead entering the country via the Northern Territory. Grey plover The species occurs as solitary or The species breeds May occur (Pluvialis in small flocks in coastal margins in the northern This species may occur squatarola) throughout Australia. Forages in hemisphere, in the nearshore area as exposed mudflats and beaches, migrating into a transient visitor. occasionally in wetlands and Australia and pasture; roosts on sheltered southern hemisphere sandy areas (DoEE, 2017b). countries during the boreal winter (DoEE, 2017b). Arrives in eastern Australia between August to December (Marchant and Higgins, 1993). Grey-tailed A wading bird found in the Moves south from May occur tattler coastal regions of Australia, breeding grounds This species may occur (Tringa although is most concentrated in along the east coast in the nearshore area as brevipes) the north (Higgins and Davies, of Asia. Arrives in a transient visitor. 1996). In WA, the species has a Australia in August scattered distribution with onwards. occurrences along the south, Commences the south-west, central and north- return journey in west coastline. Generally prefers April (DoEE, 2017b). sheltered coastal habitats, and roosts in mangrove forests (DoEE, 2017b).

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route Grey Wagtail A small terrestrial species that Undertakes Unlikely to occur inhabits lowland and highland migration across (Motacilla Areas within the wholly cinerea) grounds with watercourses Africa and Eurasia marine cable corridor (IUCN Red List, (IUCN Red List, 2017). are not considered 2017). relevant to support foraging and roosting for this species. This species tends to migrate of terrestrial lands to northern Australia. It is unlikely to overfly the corridor during annual migrations. Marsh The species occur singly or in The species breeds Unlikely to occur sandpiper small to large flocks along in eastern Europe, Species rarely recorded (Tringa coastal fringes. Prefers wetlands Siberia and northern along the southern stagnatilis) (including freshwater wetlands), China, migrating coastline. Unlikely to tidal floodplains and mudflats during boreal winter overfly the area. (DoEE, 2017b). months into southern hemisphere countries, including Australia (DoEE, 2017b). Migrates out of Australia in March-April (Marchant and Higgins, 1993). Osprey The osprey is a medium sized Breeding range Likely to occur (Pandion raptor that primarily inhabits extends around the It is likely to be present haliaetus) coastal and estuarine habitats northern coast of in the northern extent of (Marchant and Higgins, 1990). Australia from the cable route in WA The species prefers littoral and Albany in WA to coastal waters. coastal habitats and terrestrial Lake Macquarie in wetlands of tropical and NSW, with a second temperate Australia and offshore breeding population islands (DoEE, 2017b). on the coast of SA (DoEE, 2017b). Pacific golden They often form flocks of Breeds in northern Unlikely to occur plover between 20-50 individuals and hemisphere and Species rarely recorded (Pluvialis fulva) occur throughout the coastal migrates into along the WA coastline. margins of Australia. The Australia for the The species is unlikely species is rarely recorded in boreal winter (DoEE, to overfly the corridor southern or south-west 2017b). Departs during migration and coastlines (DoEE, 2017b). Australia in autumn, feeding. prior to the austral winter (Marchant and Higgins, 1993).

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route Pectoral The species prefers coastal and Breeding occurs in Unlikely to occur sandpiper near coastal wetland habitats northern Russia and Due to its rarity in (Calidris that have open fringing mudflats North America, and Australia and its melanotos) and low, emergent or fringing the species is preference for the vegetation (Higgins and Davies transient through coastal zone, it is 1996). Species is not regularly Central America and unlikely to occur within recorded in WA. the Caribbean while the cable route. on corridor to non- breeding areas in South America. There are also scattered records from Hawaii, Polynesia and Australasia. Red-necked The species is a wadder which is It usually winters in Likely to occur phalarope regularly occurs at sea as well tropical waters with a This species is likely to (Phalaropus as inland and coastal lakes. The global distribution occur within the cable lobatus) species frequently occurs at Port included South corridor near Perth, Hedland and Rottnest Island as America, the Middle when foraging and well as other scattered locations East, Western Asia migrating between and (WA). and Africa. within habitats. Red-necked This species occurs near coastal Departs from May occur stint and inland waters, but are breeding grounds The may occur in the (Calidris known to use wet paddocks and June through to nearshore area as a ruficollis) grasslands (Higgins and Davies, August. Reaches transient visitor. 1996). Important sites include Australia from north-western WA and August, although Macquarie Island. most arrive in September. Within southeast Australia, birds inhabit inland wetlands from October to November, and then move to marine habitats in December (DoEE, 2017b) Roseate tern Coastal seabird that occurs in a Little information is Likely to occur (Sterna variety of habitats including available about This species is known to dougallii) beaches, reefs and sandy/coral migratory forage in the northern islands. A specialist forager for movements or timing extent of the cable route small pelagic fish (BirdLife through the north- in WA waters. International, 2017b). west of Australia. Breeds in large mixed-species Perth appears to be colonies from April to November, its most southern breeding populations are located migration.

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route around in north-west Australia (DoEE, 2017b). The majority of coastal waters south of Geraldton to Mandurah are listed as a BIA for foraging for this tern. The northern extent of the cable intersects this area. Ruddy turnstone Widespread in coastal regions of Species generally May occur (Arenaria Australia, although has been moves south during The may occur in the interpres) recorded inland (Higgins and the non-breeding nearshore area as a Davies, 1996). Closely season. East transient visitor. associated with rocky coastlines Australian and New or coral reefs and does not Zealand population breed in Australia (DoEE, migrate south from 2017b). east Asia across the Pacific Ocean, arriving from September (DoEE, 2017b). Sanderling A small wader of coastal and Moves from breeding Likely to occur (Calidris alba) inland waters in Australia. areas to the south in Whilst this bird does not Generally found on sandy the non-breeding forage at sea, it is likely beaches or rocky outcrops season. Arrives in to traverse to coastal exposed to wave action (DoEE, northwest Australia areas around the 2017b; Higgins and Davies, in September. northern extent of the 1996). Frequently arriving at cable route in WA Rottnest Island late waters. August. (Higgins and Davies, 1996). Sharp-tailed A stout sandpiper that inhabits Departs breeding May occur sandpiper the muddy margins of freshwater grounds in late June, The may occur in the (Calidris wetlands. Forages on bare moving down nearshore area as a acuminata) substrate or in shallow water. through Asia and transient visitor. Inhabits coastal and inland New Guinea. Arrives waters throughout Australia. in Australia mid- Widespread in the south-west of August. Returns to WA (Bamford et al., 2008). breeding grounds in April (DoEE, 2017b). Terek sandpiper The Terek sandpiper is a wader Breeds in Eurasia, Unlikely to occur (Xenus that generally roosts communally moves south into This bird is not known to cinereus) in mangrove areas, and forages non-breeding areas utilise marine on mudflats. Rarely sighted in during boreal winter coastlands. WA (DoEE, 2017b). (DoEE, 2017b).

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route Whimbrel They occur primarily in coastal Breeds in the May occur (Numenius habitats, particularly sheltered northern The may occur in the phaeopus) intertidal mudflats. It is widely hemisphere, the nearshore area as a spread on the WA coastline whimbrel enters transient visitor. (DoEE, 2017b). Australia in August and September and returns to northern hemisphere in February (DoEE, 2017b; Higgins and Davies, 1996). Wood sandpiper A small wadder species which The breeding Unlikely to occur (Tringa glareola) typically found in swamps, grounds are typically This bird is not known to o wetlands, saltmarshes, stony between 50 and utilise marine o wetlands. 70 N in Eurasia with coastlands. non-breeding grounds in Africa, Asia and Australia Note: CE: Critically Endangered; En: Endangered; V: Vulnerable; Mig: Migratory.

B.4.8 Summary of Protected Matters Occurrence

Places of Importance A Protected Matters search of the Perth EEZ cable corridor was reviewed to inform which matters protected under the EPBC Act have a likelihood of overlapping with the proposed action. That, coupled with review of desktop information, has identified that the cable corridor will not overlap, and therefore is not expected to impact upon any:  World Heritage places  National Heritage places  Wetlands of international importance  Commonwealth Marine Areas

Two Commonwealth Marine Reserves and five KEFs will intersect the cable corridor and have potential to be affected by the proposed action. In addition to these matters a number of threatened and migratory species may also be affected. Those are summarised following.

Threatened Species

Following a review of known distributions and occurrence, habitat preferences and migratory pathways, the following threatened species were identified as likely to occur in the cable corridor:  Four marine mammals

 One shark  Nine birds

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For these marine mammals, fish and birds, the likelihood of occurrence largely relates to known migration pathways overlapping with the cable corridor and/or neighbouring feeding grounds and BIA’s. The cable laying area is a narrow and moving area, therefore, the interactions with the project would be limited on a temporal basis. The majority of these species are transient.

Information regarding sensitive time windows for some of the threatened species likely to occur within the cable corridor is provided in Table B-7.

Migratory Species Following a review of known distributions and occurrence, habitat preferences and migratory pathways, the following migratory species were identified as likely to occur in the cable corridor.  Five marine mammals

 Two sharks  Eight birds As with the listed threatened species, overlap of the cable corridor with the known migratory pathways drive the likelihood of occurrence for these listed migratory species. Suitable habitats and BIA’s exist in the cable route for some species. However, BIA’s are very large and the cable-laying route is very narrow (10 m width) and the proposed action of installation is temporary. Therefore, the interactions with the project during installation would be limited on a temporal basis during migration events or restricted to waters in the vicinity of the upwelling feeding grounds. Once the cable is laid the majority of species are not expected to interact with it on the seabed. Accordingly, for all species the potential for interactions with the cable corridor are predicted to remain low and, in the majority of cases, they would be limited to migration events during narrow temporal periods. Information regarding sensitive time windows during which interactions may occur with different threatened and migratory species is provided in Table B-7.

B.5 Other Protected Matters The Protected Matters Report for the cable corridor also identified a number of other marine matters that are protected under the EPBC Act. This included 41 marine mammals, seven reptiles, 65 birds, 27 fish and eight Commonwealth Marine Reserves. These matters as listed in the Protected Matters Report are available in Appendix E and are addressed following.

B.5.1 Additional Marine Mammals Forty-one marine mammals described as other protected matters were listed in the Protected Matters Report. Of the 41, 28 of these species were not listed as either threatened or migratory and have not yet been assessed in previous sections. These species can be categorised as the following:  One fur seal species  One baleen whale species  18 toothed whale species  Nine dolphin species

Likelihood of Occurrence These mammals may occur within the cable corridor. Many are migratory with movement patterns unknown or poorly understood (e.g. sperm whales). Suitable habitat exists within the cable corridor for these species. However, the corridor is not considered to support key habitats or core distribution pathways for these marine mammals.

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B.5.2 Additional Reptiles Seven reptile species were listed in the Protected Matters Report. Of the seven, the shark bay seasnake (Aipysurus pooleorum), spectacled seasnake (Disteira kingie) and yellow-bellied seasnake (Pelamis platurus) were not listed as either threatened or migratory.

Likelihood of Occurrence

The shark bay seasnake and spectacled seasnake commonly inhabit coastal and inshore waters, therefore these reptiles may occur within the cable corridor. The yellow-bellied seasnake is described as being the most pelagic of all of the sea snakes, however this species is commonly known to occur in northern waters of Western Australia. Therefore the yellow- bellied seasnake may occur within the cable corridor.

B.5.3 Additional Birds Sixty-five birds were listed in the Protected Matters Report. With the exception of 14 bird species, all of these other listed bird species were also considered to be either threatened, migratory or both.

Likelihood of Occurrence No terrestrial or wetland habitats will be affected by the proposed action. Species that occupy these habitats may overfly the region when moving between feeding areas or during annual migrations, or they may occur in the area as transient visitors. No habitats within the cable corridor are, however, considered to provide key habitats or core distributional pathways for these birds.

B.5.4 Additional Fish Twenty-seven fish were identified in the Protected Matters Report. All the additional 27 fish species listed under the EPBC Act as other protected matters were pipefish, pipehorses, seadragons and seahorses belonging to the family Syngnathidae. Fish within this family generally inhabit coastal waters with diverse benthic structure (e.g. seagrasses, rocky or coral reefs etc.) (Foster and Vincent, 2004).

The marine habitats around Perth include rocky reefs, rock pools, mangroves and seagrass meadows which provide suitable habitat for a diverse range of fish species (approximately 600 species) (Booth, 2010).

Likelihood of Occurrence

The mapped distribution of these species indicates that at least some of these other protected fish species are likely to occur within the cable corridor given rocky reef in the nearshore areas may provide suitable habitat for the syngnathids.

B.5.5 Commonwealth Marine Reserves Eight Commonwealth Marine Reserves were identified in the Protected Matters Report; of these, the cable corridor transects the following (Figure B-8):  Perth Canyon Marine National Park Zone (IUCN II)  Perth Canyon Habitat Protection Zone (IUCN IV)  South West Corner Marine National Park Zone (IUCN II)  South West Corner Multiple Use Zone (IUCN VI)

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The other reserves identified in the Protected Matters Report are located outside the cable route. These include additional zones of the Perth Canyon and South West Corner marine parks, and two zones of the Two Rocks marine park located 10 km to the north of the cable route.

Both the Perth Canyon and South West Corner marine parks are new areas to be added to the South-West Network of marine parks. At the time of writing (November 2017) there is no management plan in effect for these marine parks, rather they are being managed under transitional arrangements until a statutory management plan comes into effect. A review of the major conservation values for the parks, and the draft management plan for the South-West Network has identified that the proposed cable installation is consistent with the draft management plan objectives, and would likely be classified as ‘critical infrastructure in the national interest (e.g. submarine telecommunication cables)’ (section 4.2.9.3(d)), for which an authorisation may be issued in the zones of relevance.

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Two Rocks

P E R T H

Perth Canyon

Geographe

Bremer

South-west Corner

Legend Place names POP Coastal Waters Cable route Cable corridor Commonwealth Marine Reserve Mainland Exclusive Economic Zone Australian Exclusive Economic Zone

Paper Size ISO A4 ALCATEL SUBMARINE NETWORKS Project No. 21-26628 0 30 60 90 120 150 180 INDIGO Central Revision No. 1 Environmental Impact Assessment Date 14/12/2017 Kilometres Commonwealth marine protected Horizontal Datum: GDA 1994 areas and the Central cable corridor Grid: GCS GDA 1994 from Perth to the EEZ exit FIGURE B-8 N:\AU\Brisbane\Projects\21\26628\GIS\MXD\Central\AB_21_26628_011_rev_1.mxd Data source: DNRM - Place names (2017). GHD - POP, Cable route (28 - Nov2017), Cable Corridor (2017). GA: Mainland, Bathymetry (2009), Coastal Waters Boundary (2017). CAPAD - Commonwealth Marine Print date: 14 Dec 2017 - 11:08 Reserve (2016). Created by: JCM

B.5.6 Summary of Other Protected Matters Occurrence Following a review of known distributions and occurrence, habitat preferences and migratory pathways, the following other protected matters were identified as likely to overlap with the cable corridor/proposed action:  Pipefish, pipehorses, seadragons and seahorses belonging to the family Syngnathidae  Four Commonwealth Marine Reserves across two marine parks

The latter are new areas to be added to the South-West Network of marine parks and are currently under transitional arrangements. Review of draft management objectives indicates that the proposed action is consistent with, and unlikely to detriment, the management objectives or values of the Reserves. The cable route will traverse shallow habitats that may support species of syngnathids. The route has been selected to avoid key habitat for these animals as far as practical. Any potential impacts are expected to be transient in nature during installation and relate primarily to displacement. Once the cable is laid species are expected to return to the area rapidly.

B.6 Sensitive Time Windows Windows of ecological sensitivity for environmental values identified within this cable route are summarised in Table B-7.

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Table B-7 Summary of ecologically sensitive timeframes (Perth to EEZ exit)

Threatened Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec species Cable laying Blue w hale Annual migration to/from feeding areas to calving/w intering areas. Fin w hale Annual migration to/from feeding areas to calving/w intering areas. Sei w hale Annual migration to/from feeding areas to calving/w intering areas. Humpback Annual migration from summer feeding grounds (in w hale Antarctic w aters) to tropical breeding grounds, returning by late spring. Migratory pathw ays of this species w ill be crossed by the cable corridor. Southern right Annual migration from summer feeding grounds (in w hale Antarctic w aters) to tropical breeding grounds, returning by late spring. Migratory pathw ays of this species w ill be crossed by the cable corridor. Leatherback May be present as a transient visitor to the cable corridor. Breeding does not occur in the region. turtle, loggerhead turtle, green turtle and flatback turtle Great w hite Likely to be present throughout the year. shark Marine Marine threatened birds may be present and foraging throughout the year. No know n breeding threatened birds areas are w ithin or near to the cable corridor. Peak migratory fly aw ay periods could span from August into March. Migratory marine May be present as a transient A number of species undertake an annual migration May be mammals visitor to the area. from summer feeding grounds (in Antarctic w aters) present to tropical breeding grounds, returning by late as a spring. transient visitor to the area. Migratory sharks Porbeagle shark and shortfin mako are likely to be present as a transient visitor to the area. Timeframes are unknow n due to insufficient data on migration and dispersal patterns. Migratory marine May be present as a transient A number of species undertake an annual migration May be birds visitor to the area. from southern w aters to tropical/temperate w intering present grounds, returning by late spring. as a transient visitor to the area. Coral spaw ning Occurs Occurs betw een 7-10 betw een 7- days after a 10 days after full moon a full moon Cable laying w ill occur from August, and isconservatively assumed to run for a period of 150 days. Peak period of activity – presence reliable and predictable – likelihood of occurrence w ithin the cable route is high. Low er level of abundance/activity/presence – may occur w ithin cable route. Activity not know n to occur – unlikely to occur w ithin cable route.

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B. EEZ Entrance to Mainland Australia (Sydney)

B.7 Overview The information described in this section refers to the cable corridor that traverses from international waters in the west through the Australian EEZ to connect into a POP within the Sydney Southern Protection Zone (SSPZ). For simplicity in the text this section of the EEZ is referred to as the Sydney EEZ to enable distinction from those values that overlap with the Perth EEZ corridor. From international waters the cable re-enters the EEZ approximately 460 km south of Kangaroo Island, in a WD of 5195 m. From there the cable traverses Bass Strait, and travels around Cape Howe at the south-east of Australia, before connecting to the existing POP in a WD of 30 m. In the waters through Bass Strait the cable will be laid directly on the seabed. From a WD of approximately 1000 m off NSW the cable will be ploughed or water jetted into the seabed along the cable route up to the POP. The cable route has a maximum width of 10 m, with the area of actual seabed disturbance comprising a smaller portion of this area depending on the installation method applied. The cable corridor will transect or lie in proximity to a range of marine habitats including subtidal rocky reef, macroalgal beds, seagrasses and expanses of subtidal sand and soft sediments. The following sections provide a description of the nearshore and offshore habitats within the Sydney EEZ corridor.

Impacts to these habitats and associated species from the Project activities are assessed as part of the Ecological Risk Assessment in accordance with the EPBC significant impact guidelines (refer Appendix D), and using the PMST. The area applied for the PMST used the route of the proposed cable in the Sydney EEZ, with a 10 km buffer area. This search area is referred to throughout this assessment as the ‘cable corridor’ to distinguish the 10 km area for assessment from the 10 m wide cable installation route. Figure B-1 details the marine bioregions the proposed cable route traverses as it re-enters the Australia EEZ from international waters. Due to the large spatial area, the marine habitats and communities will be described according to the bioregion in the following sub-Sections.

GHD | Report for Alcatel Submarine Networks - Indigo Central, 2126628 | 46 S Y D N E Y

Central Eastern A D E L A I D E IMCRA Province Central Eastern Province Spencer Gulf IMCRA Province

Southern Province M E L B O U R N E

Western Bass Southeast Strait IMCRA IMCRA Transition Transition Southeast Bass Transition Strait IMCRA Province

West Tasmania Transition

H O B A R T

Tasmanian IMCRA Legend Province Tasmania Place names Province POP Coastal Waters Cable route Cable corridor Mainland Exclusive Economic Zone Australian Exclusive Economic Zone

Paper Size ISO A4 ALCATEL SUBMARINE NETWORKS Project No. 21-26628 0 100 200 INDIGO Central Revision No. 1 Environmental Impact Assessment Date 14/12/2017 Kilometres Marine bioregions (DEWHA, 2008a) Horizontal Datum: GDA 1994 and the Central cable corridor Grid: GCS GDA 1994 from the EEZ entrance to Sydney FIGURE B-9 N:\AU\Brisbane\Projects\21\26628\GIS\MXD\Central\AB_21_26628_012_rev_1.mxd Data source: GHD - POP, Cable route (28 - Nov2017), Cable Corridor (2017). GA: Mainland, Bathymetry (2009), Coastal Waters Boundary (2017). DEHWA - Marine bioregions (2008a). Created by: JCM Print date: 14 Dec 2017 - 11:08

B.8 Offshore Habitats

B.8.1 West Tasmania Transition The cable re-enters the Australian EEZ and into the West Tasmanian Transition bioregion approximately 460 km south of Kangaroo Island, South Australia.

Substrates and Geomorphology

The geomorphology of the bioregion extends from abyssal plain/deep ocean floor to continental slope/rise as the route approaches the Bass Strait. The dominant geomorphic units of these biomes are known to include calcareous gravel, sands and silt across the plain and mud to sand across the continental slope. The mud and ooze substrates that are consistent with the continental slope are comprised of fine biofragments and pelagic components (McLeay et al., 2003) from numerous dentalium, pteropods, gastropods, echinoid plates, spherical and vagrant bryozoans, benthic foraminiferans, ostracods, micromolluscs and angular clasts (Rollet et al., 2001; McLeay et al., 2003).

Marine Flora and Fauna Protected species are discussed in Section B.10. Currie and Sorokin (2011) studied the benthos and epifauna of the Great Australian Bight deep ocean floor and found the most common types of fauna to be Chordata (fish), Porifora (sponges), Enchinodermata (brittle stars and cucumbers) as well as Cnidaria (corals and anemone). Given the average depth (-3,900 m) and substrates of this bioregion are similar to that of the Bight, a significant level of similarity of biodiversity could be assumed. Those works also reported an epifaunal biomass increase with decreasing depth and decreasing distance from shore (Ward et al., 2006), where epifaunal biomass was lowest at 2000 m compared to similar levels at 500 m and 1000 m of depth.

The biodiversity in shelf waters of the region is largely influenced by the Zeehan Current and its interactions with the continental slope. Benthic species that are known to inhabit the continental shelf of the region include lace corals and sponges. The greatest diversity of sponges occur between the 200-350 m depths. Such sponge gardens also support a high diversity of other invertebrates and act as aggregation areas for fish.

A number of fish species, such as orange roughys, also aggregate around canyon structures and seamounts (DEWHA 2007). The latter are also believed to support spawning. Seabed canyons and seamounts are mapped as occurring along the eastern wall of this bioregion.

Fisheries Resources State level managed fisheries in this bioregion that intersect the cable corridor include:  Giant crab fishery  Rock lobster fishery  Scallop fishery. Commonwealth fisheries in this bioregion that intersect the cable corridor include:  Bass Strait Central Zone Scallop Fishery

 Southern and Eastern Scalefish and Shark Fishery: Commonwealth Trawl Sector and Scalefish Hook Sector  Southern and Eastern Scalefish and Shark Fishery: Shark Gillnet and Shark Hook Sectors

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 Southern Bluefin Tuna Fishery (line fishing only)  Southern Squid Jig Fishery  Eastern Tuna and Billfish Fishery  Small Pelagic Fishery.

B.8.2 Western Bass Strait Shelf Transition The cable makes a short 70 km crossing of this bioregion, approximately 60 km from the Australian mainland as illustrated in Figure B-9.

Substrates and Geomorphology

The dominant substrate type the route will cover will consist of calcareous gravels, sands and silt, which extend from the upper slope at the western edge of the bioregion and across the Bass Strait. The floor is known to be dominated by rocky reef patches interspersed with large patches of sediments. This region is dominated by shelf and abyssal plain and is characterised by a deep escarpment through which the route is expected to proceed (CSIRO 2017).

Marine Flora and Fauna Protected species are discussed in Section B.10.

In places sessile invertebrate assemblages such as sponges dominate. These provide habitat and shelter for many other invertebrates and fishes. Infauna samples completed in 2010, showed a dominance of Annelida (bristle worms) accounting for 38% of species, with Mollusca (shellfish) and Arthropoda (crabs and shrimp) following (Currie and Sorokin, 2011).

Fisheries Resources Given the relative shallow average depth (-75 m) benthic communities are targeted by commercial fisheries aiming for blue grenadier (Macruronus novaezelandiae), gemfish (Rexea solandri) and orange roughy (Lynch and Garvey, 2003 cited in Rogers et al., 2013). Victorian state-level managed fisheries in this bioregion that intersect the cable route include:  Giant Crab Fishery  Rock Lobster Fishery  Scallop Fishery. Commonwealth fisheries in this bioregion that intersect the cable route include:  Bass Strait Central Zone Scallop Fishery  Southern and Eastern Scalefish and Shark Fishery: Commonwealth Trawl Sector and Scalefish Hook Sector  Southern and Eastern Scalefish and Shark Fishery: Shark Gillnet and Shark Hook Sectors  Southern Bluefin Tuna Fishery (line fishing only)  Southern Squid Jig Fishery  Eastern Tuna and Billfish Fishery  Small Pelagic Fishery.

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B.8.3 Bass Strait Shelf Province The cable extends across this bioregion for approximately 200 km, situated to the northern shelf of Tasmania and in the Bass Strait, passing at closest point approximately 50 km’s from the Australian mainland, as illustrated in Figure B-9 and Figure B-10 .

Substrates and Geomorphology

The substrates within this bioregions are heavily influenced by the relatively shallow (-61 m) depths and terrigenous inputs. Key substrates of the Bass Strait Shelf Province are characterised by rocky-reef and soft sediments. CSIRO information indicates the Shelf is 1 of 4 bioregions in Australia to contain five classes of geomorphic units, including sandbanks, deep escarpments, plateaus, ridges, abyssal plain and continental slope.

Marine Flora and Fauna

The relative shallow water depths mean a greater degree of seasonal temperature fluctuations. The mixing caused by these factors and the east Australia current result in a unique environment supporting a broad range of taxonomic groups. Sediment and benthic biota sampling completed in the Bass Strait indicates a very diverse range of productive invertebrates, including rich assemblages of bryozoans and hydroids (Boreen et al. 1993). The area is not well described, however, and Passlow et al. (2004) also found that of 20% of species sampled where poorly known or undescribed and 22.5% were endemic to south Eastern Australia. The waters of the Bass Strait accommodate for several threatened and priority species protected under the EPBC Act. These are addressed in Section B.10.

Fisheries Resources Commonwealth fisheries in this bioregion that intersect the cable corridor include:  Bass Strait Central Zone Scallop Fishery

 Southern and Eastern Scalefish and Shark Fishery: Commonwealth Trawl Sector and Scalefish Hook Sector  Southern and Eastern Scalefish and Shark Fishery: Shark Gillnet and Shark Hook Sectors  Southern Squid Jig Fishery  Small Pelagic Fishery  Eastern Tuna and Billfish Fishery.

B.8.4 Southeast Shelf Transition The cable enters the Southeast Shelf Transition approximately 30 km south of the Wilsons Promontory Peninsula and traverses through the bioregion for 215 km’s.

Substrates and Geomorphology Seafloor substrate is consistent with that of the Bass Strait. Rocky reefs are present which support encrusting, erect and branching sponges, shell grit substrates with large patches of sponges and sparse sponge habitats. Sediment structure of the bioregion is dominated by sand with mud and gravel forming less than 20%. Carbonate content within substrate is high and increases towards the outer shelf and upper slope.

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Marine Flora and Fauna Based on studies by Passlow et al. (2004) the sea-floor of this bioregion is expected to be exceptionally rich in biodiversity, particularly sponge, crustacean and molluscan fauna. These, in turn, attract diverse fishery assemblages. The bioregion is an important migration and resting area for the southern right whale as well as providing a foraging habitat for Australian fur seal, killer whale, white shark and several seabird species. These protected species are discussed in Section B.10.

Fisheries Resources Commonwealth fisheries in this bioregion that intersect the cable route include:  Bass Strait Central Zone Scallop Fishery  Small Pelagic Fishery

 Southern and Eastern Scalefish and Shark Fishery: Commonwealth Trawl Sector and Scalefish Hook Sector  Southern and Eastern Scalefish and Shark Fishery: Shark Gillnet and Shark Hook Sectors  Southern Bluefin Tuna Fishery (line fishing only)  Southern Squid Jig Fishery  Eastern Tuna and Billfish Fishery.

B.8.5 Southeast Transition The cable enters the Southeast Transition bioregion from the southwest and skirts around the east Gippsland marine Reserve before it exits the bioregion in the north approximately 120 km’s from the coastline.

Substrates and Geomorphology The offshore bioregion occurs predominantly (>80%) in deep waters >-2000 m. The dominant seafloor features of the bioregion are continental shelf and abyssal plain. In studies completed by Ward et al. (2006), epifaunal richness and biomass has been shown to decline with increasing depth and distances from the shore along the shelf.

Marine Flora and Fauna

Very little is known about the benthic assemblages of the intermediate to deeper water of the southeast transition zone, however parallels can be drawn to other temperate habitats at similar latitudes. Seabed biodiversity is likely similar to other deep water environs of southern Australia noted above. A unique mix of temperate and warm waters create a habitat for free-floating phytoplankton, driven by seasonal changes to oceanographic conditions. Such productivity invites foraging from albatrosses, the great-winged petrel, cape petrel and wedge-tailed shearwater. The region is also a known passage for humpback whale migration routes along the east coast. Protected species are discussed in Section B.10.

Fisheries Resources Commonwealth fisheries in this bioregion that intersect the cable route include:  Bass Strait Central Zone Scallop Fishery  Small Pelagic Fishery

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 Southern and Eastern Scalefish and Shark Fishery: Commonwealth Trawl Sector and Scalefish Hook Sector  Southern and Eastern Scalefish and Shark Fishery: Shark Gillnet and Shark Hook Sectors  Southern Bluefin Tuna Fishery (line fishing only)  Southern Squid Jig Fishery  Eastern Tuna and Billfish Fishery.

B.8.6 Central Eastern Province (Southern Extent) The proposed cable will enter the southern section of this bioregion and extends through the area for approximately 210 km’s, as illustrated in Figure B-19.

Substrates and Geomorphology The substrates within the bioregion are reflective of the geomorphology, representative of abyssal-plain, deep ocean floor, canyons and continental slope. Similarly, to that described in Section B.8.4, with the benthic environment dominated by deep ocean floor and the associated communities.

Marine Flora and Fauna

The biological communities in the bioregion have been identified of having a high amount of endemism, with of more than 630 demersal species found, 56 are endemic to the region. The species found along the demersal outer shelf are typically narrow-ranging, resulting in the characterisation of 3 distinct biomes (upper slope (280-490 m, mid-upper slope 610-830 m and lower slope 910-1080 m) related to the species that inhabit that slope area.

The previously mentioned canyons in the bioregion channel upwelling off the coast, influencing biological productivity. Plankton blooms resulting from the increasing nutrient availability attract populations of yellowfin tuna, whales and albatross. Protected species are discussed in Section B.10.

Fisheries Resources State level managed fisheries in this bioregion that intersect the cable corridor include:  Rock Lobster Fishery  Ocean Trap and Line Fishery  Ocean Trawl Fishery (from Barrenjoey Head to QLD border)  Ocean Trawl Fishery (from Barrenjoey Head to Vic border, up to 3 nm)  Offshore Recreational and Charter Boat fishery. Commonwealth fisheries in this bioregion that intersect the cable corridor include:  Eastern Tuna and Billfish Fishery  Small Pelagic Fishery  Southern Bluefin Tuna Fishery  South East Scalefish and Shark Fishery (Commonwealth trawl, scalefish hook and deepwater trawl sectors).

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B.8.7 Central Eastern Shelf Province The length of the proposed cable within the Central Eastern Shelf Bioregion is approximately 30 km’s, approaching New South Wales state waters and the Australian mainland via the Southern Sydney Protection Zone.

Substrates and Geomorphology

Consistent with other regions, the distribution of benthic habitats in southern NSW is reflective of the patterns in bedrock geology, history and nearby coastal inputs. Overall the sediments of the Central Eastern Shelf are dominated by clastic sediments closer to the coast and coarser sediments to the outer shelf (Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water NSW, 2010).

Marine Flora and Fauna

The fauna of this bioregion is characterised by the influence of the spatial location, between the temperate south and subtropical north. Therefore, the dominant species of this bioregion include eastern warm/subtropical species, with the East Australian Current supplying subtropical juvenile species from the north. These variations in coastal waters will also determine and influence pelagic water species. Such coastal upwellings may result in short-lived diatom blooms (days to weeks) and associated zooplankton production (Bulman et al., 2006). Most of the animals in the benthic habitat of the intermediate shelf are infaunal species, with more than 500 macrobenthic fauna identified, dominated by polychaetes, crustaceans and molluscs. Little is known about the benthic assemblages on the intermediate depths of the bioregion, however consistent with reefs at these depths in other temperate regions assemblages are likely to include habitats dominated by sponges, invertebrates such as ascidians, hydrozoans, gorgonians and bryozoans (Butler, 1995). Protected species are discussed in more detail in Sections B.10.6 to B.10.8.

Fisheries Resources State level managed fisheries in this bioregion that intersect the cable corridor include:  Rock Lobster Fishery  Ocean Trap and Line Fishery  Ocean Trawl Fishery (from Barrenjoey Head to QLD border)  Ocean Trawl Fishery (from Barrenjoey Head to Vic border, up to 3 nm)  Ocean Trawl Fishery (from Barrenjoey Head to QLD border to the 4 000 m isobath)  Offshore Recreational and Charter Boat fishery. Commonwealth fisheries in this bioregion that intersect the cable route include:  Eastern Tuna and Billfish Fishery  Small Pelagic Fishery  Southern Bluefin Tuna Fishery

 South East Scalefish and Shark Fishery (Commonwealth trawl, scalefish hook and deepwater trawl sectors).

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B.9 Nearshore Habitats and Associated Communities

B.9.1 Tasmanian nearshore waters The cable will pass through Tasmanian coastal waters for approximately 8 km through the Bass Strait, passing through the waters surrounding Crocodile Rock. Associated habitats of the Southeast Transition bioregion have been discussed in Section B.8.5. The cable will not surpass the Lowest Astronomical Tide (LAT) mark of the Tasmanian coastal territory (see Figure B-10 ).

Crocodile Rock has been described as an island in an area of uplifted basement complex (Western Geophysical Company of America, 1981).

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Place names Bathymetry Contours (20m - 400m) Coastal Waters Cable route Cable corridor Mainland

M E L B O U R N E

Crocodile Rock

H O B A R T

Paper Size ISO A4 ALCATEL SUBMARINE NETWORKS Project No. 21-26628 0 25 50 75 100 INDIGO Central Revision No. 1 Environmental Impact Assessment Date 14/12/2017 Kilometres

Horizontal Datum: GDA 1994 Central cable route through Grid: GCS GDA 1994 Tasmanian coastal waters FIGURE B-10 N:\AU\Brisbane\Projects\21\26628\GIS\MXD\Central\AB_21_26628_013_rev_1.mxd Data source: GHD - POP, Cable route (28 - Nov2017), Cable Corridor (2017). GA: Mainland, Bathymetry (2009). Created by: JCM Print date: 14 Dec 2017 - 11:09

B.9.2 New South Wales nearshore waters The SSPZ POP is located approximately 2 km offshore, within the Central Eastern Shelf Province bioregion described in Section B.8.7. The inshore portion of this region is characterised by rocky reefs, macroalgal beds and soft sediments which support diverse fisheries resources; these are discussed in detail following.

Rocky Reef Temperate rocky reef habitats are known to support a diversity of species, including listed EPBC Act species and commercially and recreationally important marine species. Rocky reef habitats support a comparatively higher diversity of marine fauna than sandy areas. This is due to a number of factors including the availability and higher diversity of niche habitat areas and refugia, which encourage the settlement of sessile organisms and provide shelter/resources of sedentary fauna. This in turn promotes macro-invertebrates and teleosts to recruit to these habitats (Diaz et al., 2004). Nearshore rocky reefs in the Sydney region are known to support sponges, temperate corals, echinoderms, molluscs and crustaceans (Connell and Glasby, 1999). Recreationally and commercially relevant fishery species that inhabit these areas include snapper (Pagrus auratus), yellowtail kingfish (Seriola lalandi) and a variety of cephalopods and crustaceans. The nearshore rocky reef environments also provide habitat suitable for pipe fishes (Syngnathidae), protected as marine animals under the EPBC Act.

As noted above, the cable route will connect to an existing POP in a WD of 30 m, approximately 2 km offshore. It will therefore bypass the majority of the nearshore (intertidal) and subtidal rocky reefs, inclusive of the nearby Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve, located within the Randwick City Council. From the POP to a depth of approximately 40 m benthic habitats may include a mix of open soft sandy seabed intermixed with sparse patches of rocky reef. From the cable pop out point any cable laid on the seabed could, therefore, have direct interaction with the deep water patchy rocky reef habitat. The majority of the cable alignment is, however, planned to occur through soft sediment environments.

Macroalgal Beds Temperate rocky reefs, such as those found within the cable corridor, are often associated with macroalgal beds. In the waters of the SSPZ the macroalgal beds are generally characterised by kelp (Ecklonia radiata) and species from the genus Sargassum. Macroalgal beds provide habitat for a high diversity of animals and act as nursery areas for many species. As such, they have high ecological significance within the near shore environment (Dayton, 1985). Additionally, macroalgae can form part of the diet for marine turtles, and is therefore an important resource for these threatened species. As the cable corridor overlaps with locations where macroalgal beds are known to occur in the nearshore area, these habitats and associated communities have potential to be directly impacted by the project if appropriate management measures are not put in place.

Soft Sediment The benthic habitats within the cable corridor at depths greater than 40 m are primarily comprised of unvegetated soft sediments, including open sandy expanses. Characterised by a high energy wave climate and associated highly mobile sediments, the soft sediment habitats of the region primarily support limited infaunal and epifaunal invertebrate communities (Davie, 2011). At these depths these open seabed environs are only infrequently interspersed with macroalgae beds on small patches of rocky reefs. Collectively these habitats support higher order transient organisms such as teleost fishes.

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Infaunal organisms are those that burrow through surface sediments and include polychaete worms, sipunculids, bivalve molluscs and crustaceans. Epifaunal assemblages found in the nearshore waters of the Sydney region include crustaceans, echinoderms and molluscs. At depths greater than 40 m. the cable corridor will have direct impact on the soft sediment habitat and associated communities within the footprint.

Fisheries Resources

The diversity of nearshore and offshore habitats off Sydney support a speciose fish community that is of ecological, recreational and commercial importance. Recreational fishing in the Sydney region (including fresh and salt water fishing across coastal and inland systems) is thought to create the equivalent of 14000 fulltime jobs and generate about $3.4 billion of economic activity into the NSW economy every year (NSW Department of Primary Industries, 2017)

A number of species form part of locally targeted recreational and commercial fisheries. Such species include the blue swimmer crab (Portunus pelagicus), the Eastern king prawn (Penaeus plebejus) and the school prawn (Metapenaeus macleayi). These species are all highly mobile, and as such may occasionally transit in the cable corridor. Throughout coastal and offshore waters of broader NSW, the wild harvest commercial fishing sector alone generates more than $90 million per year (NSW Department of Primary Industries, 2014). A number of species of importance to commercial marine and estuarine fishing in NSW are supported by habitats within the SSPZ namely:  Snapper (Pagrus auratus)  Yellowfin bream (Acanthopagrus australis)  Flathead (Platycephalus spp.)  King (Melicertus spp.) and school prawns (Metapenaeus spp.)  Sea mullet (Mugil cephalus)  Mulloway (Argyrosomus japonicus)  Whiting (Sillago spp.)  Yellowtail kingfish (Seriola lalandi)  Eastern rock lobster (Jasus verreauxi)  Crabs (Portunus spp., Scylla spp.)

Marine and coastal fisheries species disperse through both active and passive movement within their lifetimes. Most species have a larval phase which can last from a few days to months, during which time larvae are moved by the tides and currents (passive dispersal) and recruit to new populations (Sheaves et al., 2007; Smith, 2003; Watts and Johnson, 2004). Larval dispersal also results in rapid recolonisation of disturbed habitats and supplementation of small populations that are not self-sustaining (Barber et al., 2002; Crowder et al., 2000; Gaggiotti, 1996). Post larval phase fisheries species actively move through their environment and are not dependent on passive dispersal (Roberts and Ayre, 2010). Consequently, at this developmental phase fisheries species are able to move away from danger, disturbance or low-quality habitat(s). This active dispersal also allows organisms to colonise areas and move in search of suitable breeding or foraging resources (Kaunda-Arara and Rose, 2004).

Installation of the cable directly on, or embedded into, the seabed has the potential to disturb fisheries species occurring in the direct path of activities, leading to temporary avoidance of the

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area. It also has potential to affect habitats fishery species may be dependent upon for breeding which could influence recruitment success.

B.10 Matters of National Significance The following provides an assessment of matters of National Environmental Significance (NES) relevant to the cable corridor within the Sydney EEZ. The EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool (PMST) was used to identify matters of NES and other matters protected under the EPBC Act that are predicted to occur in, or relate to a defined area. That area applied for the PMST used the route of the proposed cable in the Sydney EEZ, with a 10 km buffer area. This search area is referred to throughout this assessment as the ‘cable corridor’ to distinguish the 10 km area for assessment from the 10 m wide cable installation route. This search resulted in the following relevant matters being identified as intersecting with the Sydney EEZ corridor search area:  Three World Heritage Properties  Seven National Heritage Properties  One Wetlands of International Importance  One Commonwealth Marine Areas  Six Threatened ecological communities  81 threatened species and  80 migratory species. Further details for each of these matters, including proximity to the project and potential for impact to be realised, are provided in the following sections. The output of the PMST and coordinates for the cable corridor search area are provided in (Appendix E).

B.10.1 World Heritage Three world heritage properties were identified within the PMST report, all of which are terrestrial and do not overlap with the cable corridor. The world heritage properties include the Hyde Park Barracks and associated buffer zone, and the Sydney Opera House buffer zone. These world heritage properties are located approximately 7 km and 8 km, respectively from the subtidal POP. Given the distance and the lack of environmental relationship between these locations and the cable corridor, this project is not expected to impact any of these world heritage properties.

B.10.2 National Heritage Seven national heritage places were identified within, or proximal to the Protected Matters search 10 km buffer area. These comprise one area of Indigenous significance, the Cyprus Hellene Club – Australian Hall, located 8.4 km from the POP, and eight historic areas. The seven historic areas include:  Bondi Beach, located 3.5 km from the cable route  First Government House site, located 7 km from the cable route  Hyde Park Barracks, located 7 km from the cable route  Kurnell Peninsula Headland, located 11.4 km from the cable route  Kamay Botany Bay: botanical collection sites (Kurnell, La Perouse and Towra Point), located 8 km from the cable route

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 Bondi Surf Pavilion, located 4 km from the cable route. The cable corridor does not lie within the boundaries of any national heritage area (Figure B-11 11). Given the distance and the lack of environmental relationship between these locations and the cable corridor, this project is not expected to impact any of these national heritage places.

B.10.3 Wetlands of International Importance One wetland of international importance was identified within, or proximal to the Protected Matters search 10 km buffer area. The Towra Point Nature Reserve is a Ramsar Convention listed wetland. It is located approximately 14.5 km south west of the project and does not overlap with any of the project route (Figure B-11 11). Given the distance and lack of environmental relationship between the wetland and the cable corridor, the wetland is not expected to be impacted by the project.

GHD | Report for Alcatel Submarine Networks - Indigo Central, 2126628 | 59 First Government Sydney House Harbour Bridge Sydney Opera House Colonial Sydney Hyde Park S Y D N E Y Barracks Australian Hall (Cyprus Bondi Beach Hellene Club) 0 1

0 6

0 4 1 Kamay Botany Bay

0 0 5 Kurnell Penisula Headland

0 2 0 4 0 8 0 0 1

0 2 1

0 8 0 1 0 Legend 2

Place names

World and National Heritage 0 0 Sites 5 POP Cable route

Cable corridor 0 0 0 Bathymetric Contour (value 1 0 0 5 in metres below MSL) 1 0 0 Mainland 5 0 2 0 0 Sydney Protectio0n Zones 2 6 SSPZ 1 Habitat 0 0 Reef 5 3 Canyon on the eastern 0 0 continental slope 0 3 Shelf Rocky Reef Wetlands of International Importance (RAMSAR) 0 00 2000 4

Paper Size ISO A4 ALCATEL SUBMARINE NETWORKS Project No. 21-26628 0 5 10 INDIGO Central Revision No. 1 Environmental Impact Assessment Date 14/12/2017 Kilometres

Horizontal Datum: GDA 1994 Matters of National Grid: GCS GDA 1994 Environmental Significance - SSPZ FIGURE B-11 N:\AU\Brisbane\Projects\21\26628\GIS\MXD\Central\AB_21_26628_014_rev_1.mxd Data source: GA: Mainland, Bathymetry (2009), Protected Zones, Key Ecological Features, Heritage Sites (Digitised/2015); DE: RAMSAR Wetlands (2012); OEH: NSW Seabird, Print date: 14 Dec 2017 - 11:10 Sydney Seabed (2015). GHD - POP, Cable route (28 - Nov2017), Cable Corridor (2017). Created by: JCM

B.10.4 Commonwealth Marine Areas The cable corridor traverses across the EEZ and the Territorial Sea. Under the EPBC Act Commonwealth Marine Areas are considered to be a matter of NES. To aid in the assessment of the potential impacts to Commonwealth Marine Areas, the Australian Government demarcated a set of KEFs that are considered important for biodiversity or ecosystem function of the areas.

The Protected Matters search identified two KEFs that overlap the proposed cable corridor or the 10 km buffer. These KEFs are illustrated in Figure B-12 and described in Table B-8. Table B-8 KEFs that intersect proposed cable route from Perth to EEZ

KEF Description (taken from DoEE, 2017a)

West Tasmanian Canyons An area of high productivity and aggregations of marine life, especially sponges and fish.

Canyons on the Eastern An area of habitat diversity that supports a diverse range of Continental Slope benthic, demersal and pelagic species.

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A D E L A I D E

M E L B O U R N E

Legend Place names Tasman Front and eddy field POP Ancient coastline at Cable route 90-120m depth Cable corridor Kangaroo Island Pool, canyons and Mainland adjacent shelf break, Exclusive Economic Zone and Eyre Peninsula upwellings H O B A R T Australian Exclusive Economic Zone Big Horseshoe Canyon Marine Key Ecological Features Tasmantid seamount chain West Tasmania Canyons Canyons on the eastern continental Seamounts South slope and east of Tasmania Shelf rocky reefs Bonney Coast Upwelling East of Upwelling Eden Lord Howe seamount chain

Paper Size ISO A4 ALCATEL SUBMARINE NETWORKS Project No. 21-26628 0 100 200 300 INDIGO Central Revision No. 1 Environmental Impact Assessment Date 14/12/2017 Kilometres

Horizontal Datum: GDA 1994 KEFs and the Central cable corridor Grid: GCS GDA 1994 from EEZ entrance to Sydney FIGURE B-12 N:\AU\Brisbane\Projects\21\26628\GIS\MXD\Central\AB_21_26628_015_rev_1.mxd Data . GHD - POP, Cable route (28 - Nov2017), Cable Corridor (2017). DNRM - Place names (2017). GA: Mainland, Bathymetry (2009). Department of Environment - Marine Key Ecological Features (2017). Print date: 14 Dec 2017 - 11:12 Created by: JCM

B.10.5 Listed Threatened Ecological Communities Six TECs were identified within the Protected Matters search 10 km buffer area. These consist of:  Castlereagh Scribbly Gum and Agnes Banks Woodlands of the Sydney Basin Bioregion  Coastal Upland Swamps in the Sydney Basin Bioregion  Cooks River/Castlereagh Ironbark Forest of the Sydney Basin Bioregion  Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub of the Sydney Region  Posidonia australis seagrass meadows of the Manning-Hawkesbury ecoregion  Western Sydney Dry Rainforest and Moist Woodland on Shale.

Castlereagh Scribbly Gum and Agnes Banks Woodlands The Castlereagh Scribbly Gum and Agnes Banks Woodlands is listed as ‘endangered’ under the EPBC Act. This community includes a range of vegetation and fauna associated with sand or gravel soils occurring almost exclusively on the Cumberland Plain in the northwest area of Casltereagh. The vegetation is characterised by woodland to low open-woodland with canopy species up to 15 m tall. (Threatened Species Scientific Committee, 2015a). This project is entirely marine, and thus does not overlap with this TEC. As such, impacts to this TEC as result of project activities are not expected to occur.

Coastal Upland Swamps in the Sydney Basin The Coastal Upland Swamps community is listed as ‘endangered’ under the EPBC Act. This community occurs primarily on poorly permeable soils on sandstone plateaus in the Sydney Basin Bioregion. The majority of swamps occur at elevations of 200-450 m above sea level. However some swamps can occur as low as 20 m above sea level (Threatened Species Scientific Committee, 2014). This project is entirely marine, and thus does not overlap with this TEC. As such, impacts to this TEC as result of project activities are not expected to occur.

Cooks River/Castlereagh Ironbark Forest of the Sydney Basin

Cooks River/Castlereagh Ironbark Forest is listed as ‘critically endangered’ under the EPBC Act. This community consist of open forest to low woodland, with a canopy dominated by broad- leaved ironbark and paperbark. The community, once common in Sydney’s western and south- western districts, now has been reduced to remnant pockets in the Castlereagh and Holsworthy areas and to a lesser extent in the Penrith, Blacktown, Liverpool, Auburn, Bankstown, Canterbury, Strathfield and Parramatta local government areas (Threatened Species Scientific Committee, 2015b). This project is entirely marine, and thus does not overlap with this TEC. As such, impacts to this TEC as result of project activities are not expected to occur.

Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub The Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub community is listed as ‘endangered’ under the EPBC Act. This community is characterised by sclerophyllous heath or scrub with small areas of woodland or low forest, located on sandy, nutrient poor deposits in the east and southeast suburbs of Sydney (Department of the Environment, 2014b). This project is entirely marine, and thus does not overlap with this TEC. As such, impacts to this TEC as result of project activities are not expected to occur.

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Posidonia australis seagrass meadows of the Manning-Hawkesbury ecoregion Posidonia australis seagrass meadows of the Manning-Hawkesbury ecoregion is listed as ‘endangered’ under the EPBC Act. This TEC extends from Wallis Lake to Port Hacking within the Manning Shelf and Hawkesbury Shelf bioregions and occur in shallow subtidal coastal waters in areas protected from high wave energy and in water depth less than 10 m (Threatened Species Scientific Committee, 2015c). Mapping of the Posidonia australis or other seagrass meadows does not identify any communities within the cable corridor (Department of the Environment, 2015c), with the closest mapped seagrass meadow approximately 5 km north of the cable corridor (Figure B-13).

Western Sydney Dry Rainforest and Moist Woodland on Shale

Western Sydney Dry Rainforest and Moist Woodland on Shale is listed as ‘critically endangered’ under the EPBC Act. It has a highly restricted distribution, occurring only in sheltered gullies and slopes on steep, rugged topography in the Sydney Basin bioregion (Threatened Species Scientific Committee, 2013a). This project is entirely marine, and thus does not overlap with this TEC. As such, impacts to this TEC as result of project activities are not expected to occur.

GHD | Report for Alcatel Submarine Networks - Indigo Central, 2126628 | 64 Legend Place names POP Cable route Cable corridor Mainland Sydney Protection Zones SSPZ Marine plant communities Halophila Mangrove Mangrove/Saltmarsh Posidonia Posidonia/Halophila Posidonia/Zostera Posidonia/Zostera/Halophila Saltmarsh Zostera Zostera/Halophila

S Y D N E Y

Paper Size ISO A4 ALCATEL SUBMARINE NETWORKS Project No. 21-26628 0 1 2 3 4 5 INDIGO Central Revision No. 1 Environmental Impact Assessment Date 14/12/2017 Kilometres Horizontal Datum: GDA 1994 Posidonia australis and other Grid: GCS GDA 1994 marine plant communities FIGURE B-13 N:\AU\Brisbane\Projects\21\26628\GIS\MXD\Central\AB_21_26628_016_rev_1.mxd Data source: GHD - POP, Cable route (28 - Nov2017), Cable Corridor (2017). GA: Mainland, Bathymetry (2009). DOEH: NSW Seabird, Seagrass meadows and saltmarshes (2015). Created by: JCM Print date: 14 Dec 2017 - 11:14

B.10.6 Listed Threatened Species Eighty-one listed threatened species were identified by the Protected Matters search as matters having the potential to occur within the EEZ to Sydney cable route and 10 km buffer area of cable corridor. The wide buffer included some exclusively terrestrial species (14 plants, two amphibians, one reptile, seven mammals and four birds). These have been omitted from the further consideration given the project is wholly marine; shoreline species with potential to overlap (e.g. due to migratory behaviours) have been included. The remaining species include:  5 marine mammals  5 marine reptiles  6 fish  37 birds As was conducted for the Perth EEZ species. A likelihood of occurrence assessment was completed to determine the likelihood of these species, or species’ habitat, occurring within the cable corridor. The following sections detail that assessment and the resulting rankings for each species identified in the Protected Matters search, including life history and habitat information which was used to inform the assessments.

Threatened Marine Mammals The Protected Matters search identified five threatened marine mammal species as relevant to the cable route from the EEZ entrance to Sydney. Table B-9 provides an overview of known habitat requirements for each of the species, and a likelihood of occurrence assessment based on this information.

Table B-9 Threatened Marine Mammals – EEZ entrance to Australian mainland (Sydney) Species name Status Habitat description and availability within Likelihood of the cable corridor occurrence within the cable corridor Blue whale En, Mig The pygmy blue whale and the southern Likely to occur (Balaenoptera blue whale are the two subspecies usually The pygmy blue whale musculus) occurring in Australian waters. sub-species is likely to - pygmy blue whale The cable corridor runs through known occur in the Southern (Balaenoptera foraging and possible foraging areas Australian upwelling musculus brevicauda) between the coast of Victoria and foraging area and may - southern blue whale Tasmania (DoEE, 2017b). As such, this transit the cable (Balaenoptera area is known as a BIA for this species. corridor during annual Migratory pathways of blue whales are musculus intermedia) migrations. poorly understood. Branch et al. (2007) - northern blue whale hypothesized that blue whales may (Balaenoptera migrate northwards to the pacific islands musculus musculus) during winter months. It is therefore possible that the migratory pathways are crossed by the cable corridor. The coastal area from southern NSW to northern QLD is listed as a BIA for humpback whales. The cable landing at Sydney intersects a known migration area for this species.

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Species name Status Habitat description and availability within Likelihood of the cable corridor occurrence within the cable corridor Fin whale V, Mig While fin whales are a cosmopolitan Likely to occur (Balaenoptera species occurring from polar to tropical This species is likely to physalus) waters their distribution in Australian transit the cable waters is known primarily from stranding corridor during events and whaling records. Reported migrations and may sightings of this species in Australia have occur within the cable included all states except NSW and NT; corridor around available information suggests that this feeding habitat for this species is more commonly present in species. deeper waters. Areas of upwelling (may include Bonney Upwelling) may be an important feature of fin whale feeding habitat (DoEE, 2017b). Humpback whale V, Mig Along the Australian coastline, humpback Likely to occur (Megaptera whales have a number of key calving, This species is likely to novaeangliae) migration and resting areas. The core transit the cable eastern migration pathway along the east corridor during annual and south coast of Australia will be migrations. crossed by the cable in two locations (DoEE, 2017b). The coastal area from southern NSW to northern QLD is listed as a BIA for humpback whales. The cable landing at Sydney intersects a known migration area for this species. Sei whale V, Mig There is little data available on migration May occur (Balaenoptera patterns with the available information This species may borealis) suggesting similar patterns to other transit the cable baleen whales (north-south migration corridor during pattern). The species is infrequently migrations and may recorded in Australian waters and is occur within the cable similar in appearance to Bryde’s Whales, corridor around resulting in confusion about this species’ feeding habitat for this distributional limits. Sightings include off species. Tasmania and the Bonney upwelling (DoEE, 2017b), suggesting transit across the cable corridor. Southern right whale En, Mig The major calving areas for this species Likely to occur (Eubalaena australis) are generally restricted to waters off south This species is likely to Western Australia, South Australia and transit the cable Victoria. Core habitat is coastal waters corridor during annual between Perth and Sydney. Migration migrations. occurs between higher and mid latitudes (DoEE, 2017b). The cable corridor will cross the current core coastal range and pass by large aggregation areas. Note: CE: Critically Endangered; En: Endangered; V: Vulnerable; Mig: Migratory.

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Threatened Marine Reptiles The Protected Matters search identified five threatened marine fish species as relevant to the cable route from the EEZ entrance point to Sydney. Table B-100 provides an overview of known habitat requirements for each of the species, and a likelihood of occurrence assessment based on this information.

Table B-10 Threatened Marine Reptiles – EEZ entrance to Australian mainland (Sydney) Species name Status Habitat description and availability within Likelihood of the cable corridor occurrence within the cable corridor Flatback turtle V, Mig Nesting is not recorded within the Sydney May occur (Natator depressus) EEZ corridor alignment. Feeding grounds The cable corridor is are mostly over the Australian continental not considered core shelf and off eastern Indonesian waters. habitat for this species. Migration is usually restricted to the This species may continental shelf although there are occur in the area as a numerous records of the species in transient visitor. waters off the continental shelf. Suitable soft bottom habitat exists within the cable corridor (DoEE, 2017b). Green turtle V, Mig Species is distributed throughout Likely to occur (Chelonia mydas) Australian coastal warm temperate to The cable corridor is tropical seas. Nesting occurs throughout not considered core northern Australia. Following hatching, habitat for this species. neonate and juvenile turtles remain in This species is known pelagic and offshore waters until they to occur in the area. reach approximately 30 to 40 cm carapace length (DoEE, 2017b). Adults are commonly encountered in seagrass beds and in proximity to macroalgal benthic habitats. The species undertakes migration (DoEE, 2017b). Hawksbill turtle V, Mig Nesting for this species occurs in QLD, May occur (Eretmochelys NT and WA migrating up to 2400 km The cable corridor is imbricate) between foraging areas and nesting not considered core beaches. Juvenile turtles remain in habitat for this species. pelagic and offshore waters for the first This species may five to ten years, drifting on ocean occur in the area as a currents. Feeding areas and juvenile transient visitor. dispersal may occur in the same area as the cable corridor (DoEE, 2017b). Leatherback turtle En, Mig Circum-globally distributed in warm May occur (Dermochelys temperate to tropical seas. The species The cable corridor is coriacea) occurs in open ocean basins, making not considered core landfall to nest at known locations. habitat for this species. Nesting is not recorded as far south as This species may this section of the cable corridor. This occur in the area as a species may occur in offshore waters transient visitor.

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Species name Status Habitat description and availability within Likelihood of the cable corridor occurrence within the cable corridor within the vicinity of the cable corridor (DoEE, 2017b). Loggerhead turtle En, Mig Widely distributed throughout Australian Likely to occur (Caretta caretta) coastal and offshore zones (DoEE, The cable route is not 2017b). Female turtles recorded from considered core nesting sites in south east Queensland, habitat for this species. have been observed in Australian waters This species is known off NT, QLD and NSW (Limpus, 2008a). to occur in the area. Suitable habitat includes coral reefs, rocky reefs, seagrass beds and inshore embayment’s (DoEE, 2017b). Suitable habitat for this species, including macroalgal beds and rocky reef outcrops, occur outside of, but in proximity to the cable corridor. Note: CE: Critically Endangered; En: Endangered; V: Vulnerable; Mig: Migratory.

Threatened Fish The Protected Matters search identified six threatened marine fish species as relevant to the cable route from the EEZ entrance point to Sydney. Table B-11 provides an overview of known habitat requirements for each of the species, and a likelihood of occurrence assessment based on this information. Table B-11 Threatened Fish –EEZ entrance to Australian mainland (Sydney) Species name Status Habitat description and availability within Likelihood of the cable corridor occurrence within the cable corridor Australian grayling V Inhabits coastal, freshwater and brackish May occur (Prototroctes environments. As adults, the species Juveniles or larvae maraena) inhabits freshwater streams and pools, with may occur in the the larvae and juvenile age classes coastal waters of the inhabiting coastal and estuarine waters cable corridor. (DoEE, 2017b). Black rockcod V The species is found throughout the May occur (Epinephelus southwest Pacific and demonstrates high Core habitat for this daemelii site fidelity within rocky reefs, with species is not found individuals of the species often occupying within the cable an individual cave for most of their adult life corridor. This species (DoEE, 2017b). may occur in the area Suitable habitat exists within the cable as a transient visitor. corridor, however rocky reefs where the species is more common are located outside and adjacent to the corridor. Macquarie perch En This species is considered to inhabit upper Unlikely to occur reaches of rivers, and reservoirs. Species This species typically has been recorded to occur in Georges inhabits upper reaches

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Species name Status Habitat description and availability within Likelihood of the cable corridor occurrence within the cable corridor (Macquaria River in NSW. From October to December, of freshwater rivers. australasica) this species is known to migrate upstream Core habitat for this and spawn at particular sites (DoEE, species does not occur 2017b). within the cable Suitable habitat does not exist within the corridor. cable corridor, as species are more likely to be present within upper reaches of rivers. Great white shark V, Mig The species is distributed predominantly Likely to occur (Carcharodon throughout temperate Australia, with This species is likely to carcharias) individuals known to undertake migrations occur in the area given into sub-tropical and tropical waters Bruce the species distribution et al., 2005; DoEE, 2017b). Great white and prevalence in sharks typically occur from close inshore temperate coastal habitats to the continental shelf (depths waters of Australia. between 100 to 1000 m). Juveniles are known to aggregate along coastal regions between Newcastle and Forster, NSW and 90 Mile Beach, VIC (DoEE, 2017b). As such, the cable intersects a BIA of known distribution. Suitable habitat for this species occurs in the waters of the cable corridor. Grey nurse shark CE This species is uncommon in Victorian, Likely to occur (east coast South Australian and Tasmanian waters. In The cable corridor is population) NSW, aggregations of Grey Nurse Sharks not considered core (Carcharias taurus) can be found at nearshore rocky reefs in habitat for this species. proximity to the cable corridor in depths This species is known between 15-40 m (DoEE, 2017b). to occur in the area. The coastal areas from southern NSW to QLD are listed as a BIA for this species. The cable intersects an area of known all year round distribution. Whale shark V, Mig The whale shark is an oceanic and coastal, May occur (Rhincodon typus) tropical to warm-temperate pelagic shark This species may known from NSW, QLD, NT, WA and occur in the area as a occasionally VIC and SA. Western transient visitor. Australian coast, is the main known aggregation site of Whale Sharks in Australian waters (DoEE, 2017b). Note: CE: Critically Endangered; En: Endangered; V: Vulnerable; Mig: Migratory

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Threatened Birds The Protected Matters search identified 37 threatened bird species as relevant to the cable route from the EEZ entrance point to Sydney. Table B-12 provides an overview of known habitat requirements for each of the species, and a likelihood of occurrence assessment based on this information.

Table B-12 Threatened Marine Birds – EEZ entrance to Australian mainland (Sydney) Species name Status Habitat description and availability within the Likelihood of cable corridor occurrence within the cable corridor Antipodean V A pelagic marine bird that forages in the Likely to occur albatross southwest Pacific Ocean, Southern Ocean and This species is likely to (Diomedea Tasman Sea (Walker and Elliot, 2006). The fly over and/or forage antipodensis) species is also known to forage off the coast of in the area. NSW (DoEE, 2017b). Antipodes Island (southwest of New Zealand) is the major breeding area, although a small colony also nests on Campbell Island (south of New Zealand) (Walker and Elliot, 2006). Offshore waters within the cable corridor provide suitable foraging habitat for the species, and as such is listed as a BIA for this species Australian fairy V Known from the coastline around Australia May occur tern (excluding NT), but sightings are concentrated in Suitable habitat for this (Sternula VIC, A, WA and TAS. The Australian fairy tern species may occur in nereis nereis) was known to occur in NSW, however they are region, however it is now considered to be absent within the state unlikely to overlap with (DoEE, 2017b) the offshore corridor. This species may overfly the region during annual migrations. Australian En The Australian painted snipe has been most Unlikely to occur painted snipe commonly recorded in eastern Australia, and at Core habitat for this (Rostratula wetlands across all states. This species species is not found australis) generally inhabits freshwater wetlands and water within the cable logged grassland or saltmarsh (Marchant and corridor. Higgins, 1993). In NSW, the painted snipe was recorded from the Murray-Darling Basin (NSW Scientific Committee, 2014). Bar-tailed V The bar-tailed godwit is widespread along the May occur godwit east and south east coast of QLD, NSW and Areas within the cable (bauera), VIC. The species occurs in coastal habitats and corridor are not western brackish wetlands, foraging in sheltered intertidal considered relevant to Alaskan bar- areas, and roosting on sandy beaches, sandbars support foraging and tailed godwit and spits (Marchant and Higgins, 1993). roosting for this Breeding areas are in northeast Siberia and west species. Alaska (Higgins and Davies, 1996).

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Species name Status Habitat description and availability within the Likelihood of cable corridor occurrence within the cable corridor (Limosa Undertakes migrations south from breeding This species may lapponica grounds in the Northern Hemisphere. Departs for overfly the region baueri) Australia in July, and arrives in August in during annual northwest Australia at which point small numbers migrations. disperse throughout Australia. Commences the return journey in February (Marchant and Higgins, 1993). Black-browed V, Mig A pelagic species that occurs throughout Likely to occur albatross Antarctic, sub-Antarctic and temperate waters. This species may (Thalassarche Breeding occurs on sub-Antarctic and Antarctic occur in the area as a melanophris) islands (Marchant and Higgins, 1990). Towards transient visitor while the end of breeding season, the black-browed foraging. albatross migrates northwards to the continental shelves of South America, South Africa and southern Australia (VIC, TAS and NSW) (DoEE, 2017b). Offshore waters within the cable corridor may provide suitable foraging habitat for the species, and as such is listed as a BIA for this species. Blue petrel V The blue petrel is a marine seabird, breeding on Likely to occur (Halobaena sub-Antarctic islands in the summer and This species is likely to caerulea) departing colonies from late January to early fly over the southern March. cable corridor as a They occur within Australian waters during the transient visitor. non-breeding season, between August and October. The blue petrel is occasionally recorded in TAS and VIC, however is rarely recorded on the east coast of NSW (Marchant and Higgins, 1990). Buller’s V, Mig Inhabits the sub-tropical and sub-Antarctic Likely to occur albatross, waters of the southern Pacific Ocean (Marchant This species is likely to pacific and Higgins, 1990). This species breeds in the fly over and/or forage albatross Chatham, Snares and Solander Islands in New in the area. (Thalassarche Zealand, but its distribution extends into bulleri) Australian waters, including off the coast of Sydney (DoEE, 2017b). Migration and dispersal patterns are poorly understood, although there is some evidence that juvenile birds migrate to the Humboldt Current between eastern Australia and western South America (Marchant and Higgins, 1990). Offshore waters within the cable corridor may provide suitable foraging habitat for the species, and as such is listed as a BIA for this species. Campbell V The species is known to forage over the Likely to occur albatross, continental shelf off NSW, VIC and TAS. The campbell black- only known breeding area for this species is

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Species name Status Habitat description and availability within the Likelihood of cable corridor occurrence within the cable corridor browed Campbell Island off the southern coast of New This species is likely to albatross Zealand (DoEE, 2017b; Marchant and Higgins, fly over and/or forage (Thalassarche 1990). in the area. impavida) Offshore waters within the cable corridor provide suitable foraging habitat for the species, and as such those areas are listed as BIAs for this species. Chatham En There is only one known breeding area for this Unlikely to occur albatross species – The Pyramid, off the east coast of New Core habitat for this (Thalassarche Zealand (DoEE, 2017b). species is not found eremita) The Chatham albatross forages in the coastal within the cable waters of Tasmania and southern and eastern corridor. This species New Zealand, and there is some evidence to is unlikely to fly over suggest that the species undertakes migrations the area. to the coast of South America. This species is considered a rare visitor to southeast Australian waters (Marchant and Higgins, 1990). Curlew CE, Mig The curlew sandpiper occurs along the May occur sandpiper coastlines and inland waters of Australia. This species may (Calidris Commonly found foraging on sheltered intertidal overfly the region ferruginea) mudflats and roosting on dry beaches, spits and during annual islets. migrations. Breeding occurs during June and July in Siberia. Species depart breeding grounds in early August, and arrive in Australia in late August and early September. Flocks stopover in northern Australia and arrive in south-eastern Australia in September (DoEE, 2017b). This bird is known to forage on shorelines only and is not a marine bird. Eastern curlew, CE, Mig The eastern curlew is a migratory shorebird, Likely to occur far eastern frequently found in the north, east and south-east This species is likely to curlew regions in Australia. The species forages in overfly the region (Numenius open, sheltered intertidal mudflats and sandflats, during annual madagascarien and roosts on sandy spits and islets (Marchant migrations. sis) and Higgins, 1993). Breeds in northern hemisphere, migrating into Australia in boreal winter. Arrives in eastern Australia, NSW, from August to December (DoEE, 2017b; Marchant and Higgins, 1993) This bird is known to feed on shorelines only and is not a marine bird. Fairy prion V The fairy prion forages over continental shelves Likely to occur (southern) and the continental slope, and occasionally feeds This species is likely to in deep coastal waters. Breeding occurs on occur in the area as a Macquarie Island and has been previously transient visitor while

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Species name Status Habitat description and availability within the Likelihood of cable corridor occurrence within the cable corridor (Pachyptila recorded on New Zealand offshore islands foraging or on its path turtur (DoEE, 2017b). Little information is available on to breeding in New subantarctica) migration pathways. Zealand. Inshore and offshore waters within the cable corridor provide suitable foraging habitat for the species. Gibson’s V This species has been known to forage between Likely to occur albatross Coffs Harbour, NSW and Wilson’s Promontory, This species is likely to (Diomedea VIC. Other feeding areas include, the Tasman fly over and/or forage antipodensis Sea and lower latitudes towards the mid-Pacific in the area. gibsoni) Ocean. Nesting occurs on Adam’s Island and Auckland Island off the coast of New Zealand. Only one bird of this species has been recorded Australia. It was recaptured off Wollongong, NSW in September 1997 (DoEE, 2017b). Offshore waters within the cable corridor provide suitable foraging habitat for the species. Gould’s petrel, En This subspecies of Gould’s petrel is endemic to May occur Australian Australian waters (DoEE, 2017b; O’Dwyer et al., No critical habitat for Gould’s petrel 2007). Little is known of the movement, migration this species know to (Pterodroma and dispersal patterns of this species; however, occur within the cable leucoptera it is thought that during the non-breeding season, corridor. leucoptera) birds move to the north Tasman Sea or east This species may fly Pacific Ocean. Breeding occurs in only two areas over or forage in the – Cabbage Tree Island and the Boondelbah area. Islands, off the Newcastle coast (DoEE, 2017b; Marchant and Higgins, 1990; Roberson and Bailey, 1991). Offshore waters within the cable corridor may provide suitable foraging habitat for the species. Great knot CE, Mig A large wading bird that has been observed in Unlikely to occur (Calidris sheltered coastal habitats around Australia. The cable route is not tenuirostris) Species migrate to breeding grounds, north- known as habitat for eastern Siberia and Russia, between March and this bird. April. This species is unlikely After breeding season, large flocks arrive in to fly over the cable northern Australia in late August through to early route. September. Species are now absent from coastal sites in southern Australia (DoEE, 2017b). Greater sand V, Mig The greater sand plover occurs in coastal Unlikely to occur plover, large regions throughout Australia, but is most The cable route is not sand plover concentrated in the north. Breeding only occurs known as habitat for (Charadrius in central Asia (DoEE, 2017b). this bird. leschenaultii) This bird is known to feed on shorelines only and is not a marine bird.

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Species name Status Habitat description and availability within the Likelihood of cable corridor occurrence within the cable corridor Grey-headed En, Mig A pelagic species that mostly occurs in sub- Likely to occur albatross Antarctic and sub-tropical waters, and This species is likely to (Thalassarche occasionally in Antarctic waters in the Pacific, fly over and/or forage chrysostoma) Indian and Atlantic and Southern Oceans. in the area. Breeding occurs on Macquarie Island. In Australia, most records of this species are from southern and western Tasmania, and occasionally in Victoria (DoEE, 2017b). Offshore waters within the cable corridor provide suitable foraging habitat for the species. Herald petrel CE A pelagic species that mostly occurs in tropical Unlikely to occur (Pterodroma and subtropical waters in the Pacific, Atlantic and The cable route is not heraldica) Indian Oceans. In Australia, this species is only known as habitat for known to breed on Raine Island, QLD. Migration this bird. and dispersal patterns are poorly understood This species is unlikely (Marchant and Higgins, 1993). to fly over the cable Areas within the cable corridor are not route. considered relevant to support foraging for this species. Hooded plover V The hooded plover most commonly occurs on Likely to occur (eastern) wide sandy beaches, backed by dunes. This The cable route is not (Thinornis species is widely dispersed between Jervis Bay, known as habitat for rubricollis NSW and Fowlers Bay, SA, and several offshore this bird. This species rubricollis) islands including, Kangaroo Island, King Island is, however, likely to and Flinders Island (DoEE, 2017b). overfly migrating This bird is known to feed on shorelines only and between foraging is not a marine bird. habitats. Kermadec V A pelagic petrel of the Pacific Ocean (Marchant Likely to occur petrel (western) and Higgins, 1990). This species breeds on This species is likely to (Pterodroma islands, islets and atolls in the southern Pacific occur in the area as a neglecta Ocean. Within Australia, the Kermadec petrel transient visitor while neglecta) nests at Ball’s Pyramid (off the coast of Port foraging. Macquarie) and Phillip Island. This species occasionally reaches the eastern coast of the Australian mainland (DoEE, 2017b). Offshore waters within the cable corridor provide suitable foraging habitat for the species. Lesser sand En, Mig The lesser sand plover occurs in coastal regions Likely to occur plover, of all states, but mainly through north and east This species is known Mongolian Australia. Internationally important sites for this to occur in the Sydney plover species in NSW include, the Hunter River region. This species is (Charadrius estuary, Tuggerah Lakes and Clarence River likely to overfly the mongolus) estuary (DoEE, 2017b). region during annual Migrates from breeding grounds, northeast and migrations or occur in central Asia, to northern Australia in August, and the area as a transient disperses along the coastlines to southern areas. visitor.

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Species name Status Habitat description and availability within the Likelihood of cable corridor occurrence within the cable corridor Commences the return journey to breeding grounds in April (DoEE, 2017b; Marchant and Higgins, 1993) Northern V Inhabits the sub-tropical and sub-Antarctic May occur buller’s waters of the southern Pacific Ocean (Marchant This species may fly albatross, and Higgins, 1990). This species only breeds on over and/or forage in pacific Chatham and Three Kings Island in New the area. albatross Zealand. In Australian water, this species is a (Thalassarche non-breeding visitor and is known to forage near bulleri platei) the east coast (DoEE, 2017b). Offshore waters within the cable route may provide suitable foraging habitat for the species. Northern giant V, Mig Breeding occurs on sub-Antarctic islands Likely to occur petrel (Marchant and Higgins, 1990). Adult northern This species is likely to (Macronectes giant-petrels generally remain close to breeding occur in the area as a halli) areas year-round; however, juveniles undertake transient visitor while long dispersal events, although these foraging. movements are not well-understood (Marchant and Higgins, 1990). This species is commonly seen in the winter months in the inshore and offshore waters of Sydney (Pizzey and Knight, 1999). Offshore waters within the cable route provide suitable foraging habitat for the species, and as such is listed as a BIA for this species. Northern royal En Within Australian waters, this pelagic bird occurs Likely to occur albatross in the coastal and marine aerial habitats in the This species is likely to (Diomedea southern Indian Ocean, and from south eastern fly over the area. This sanfordi) Australia through to Antarctica. The northern species may also royal albatross is known to frequently forage in forage in the area. Tasmanian and South Australian waters, but less frequently in NSW waters (DoEE, 2017b). Breeding grounds occur on Chatham Island and Taiaroa Head on the South Island of New Zealand (DoEE, 2017b). Offshore waters within the cable corridor may provide suitable foraging habitat for the species. Northern CE This species, slightly larger and stockier than the May occur Siberian bar- L. limosa, breeds in northern Siberia and spends The cable corridor tailed godwit, most of its non-breeding period in north of doesn’t directly overlap bar-tailed Western Australia (Higgins and Davies, 1996). with key habitat. This godwit The bar-tailed godwit has been recorded species is likely to (menzbieri) regularly along the east and south east coasts of overfly the corridor (Limosa QLD, NSW and VIC. This species migrates to associated with lapponica Norfolk Island, Lord Howe Island and sub- offshore islands during menzbieri) Antarctic islands (DoEE, 2017b) annual migrations.

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Species name Status Habitat description and availability within the Likelihood of cable corridor occurrence within the cable corridor Areas within the cable corridor are not considered relevant to support foraging and roosting for this species. Orange-bellied CE The orange-bellied parrot breeds during the May occur parrot summer in a coastal strip of south-western This species may (Neophema Tasmania and migrates northwards to feed in overfly the region chrysogaster) coastal marshes and dunes. Historical reports of during annual this species were recorded in the Sydney region, migrations. however more recent records are quite rare (DoEE, 2017b). Red knot, knot En, Mig The red knot is a coastal bird occurring in most May occur (Calidris suitable habitats in Australia. They inhabit This species is scarce canutus) sheltered intertidal flats and sand beaches. This in NSW but may species is typically scarce in NSW, this is due to overfly the region the lack of suitable habitat (Higgins and Davies, during annual 1996). migrations. The red knot migrates from breeding grounds in north east Siberia to Australia, arriving in August (DoEE, 2017b). This bird is known to feed on shorelines only and is not a marine bird. Salvin’s V This species breeds off the south coast of New May occur albatross Zealand, and Crozet Island in the Indian Ocean No critical habitat for (Thalassarche (Gales, 1998). The foraging area for this species this species know to salvini) covers much of the southern Pacific Ocean, and occur within the cable it is particularly associated with the Humboldt corridor. Current. Salvin’s albatross are less oceanic than This species may fly most albatross species, and are described as over and/or forage in occurring more frequently inshore than offshore the area. (Marchant and Higgins, 1990). Offshore waters within the cable corridor may provide suitable foraging habitat for the species. Shy albatross, V, Mig Occurs in Australian waters below 25°S, but is Likely to occur Tasmanian shy most frequently observed off southeast Australia This species is likely to albatross and Tasmania (Brothers et al., 1997; Hedd et al., fly over and/or forage (Thalassarche 2001). It appears to be less pelagic than most in the area. cauta cauta) albatross species, and occurs more frequently inshore than offshore. Breeding areas occur in the Bass Strait and off southern Tasmania. Although endemic to Australia, this species does undertake migrations throughout the southern oceans, from Africa through to South America (Marchant and Higgins, 1990). Offshore waters within the cable corridor provide suitable foraging habitat for the species, and as such is listed as a BIA for this species.

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Species name Status Habitat description and availability within the Likelihood of cable corridor occurrence within the cable corridor Soft-plumaged V The soft-plumaged petrel typically occurs over Likely to occur petrel temperate and sub-Antarctic waters in the South This species is likely to (Pterodroma Atlantic, southern Indian and western South fly over and/or forage mollis) Pacific Oceans. The species are known to in the area. regularly visit the seas of south and south west Australia. Breeding occurs on Maatsuyker Island off southern Tasmania (DoEE, 2017b). Sooty albatross V, Mig A pelagic species that forages between southern Likely to occur (Phoebetria NSW and Argentina, and breeds on islands in This species is likely fusca) the southern Indian and Atlantic Oceans fly over the area. It (Marchant and Higgins, 1990).The sooty may also forage in the albatross is a regular migrant to Australia’s area. southern waters. They are typically found foraging in inshore waters within the autumn and winter months (Pizzey and Knight, 1999). Offshore waters within the cable corridor may provide suitable foraging habitat for the species. Southern giant En, Mig This species is widespread but generally found in Likely to occur petrel low densities across landmasses in Antarctic This species is likely to (Macronectes waters in summer, and is thought to move to occur in the area as a giganteus) areas north of 50 °S in winter. Breeding occurs transient visitor while on six islands in the Southern Ocean and foraging. Australian Antarctic Territory (DoEE, 2017b). Offshore waters within the cable corridor provide suitable foraging habitat for the species, and as such is listed as a BIA for this species. Southern royal V, Mig A pelagic species with a wide distribution that Likely to occur albatross includes south east NSW. Breeding takes place This species is likely to (Diomedea in the Auckland Islands, off the south coast of occur in the area as a epomophora) New Zealand. Feeding areas are mostly between transient visitor while Western Australia and South America in the foraging Southern Ocean. They are moderately common in offshore waters of southern Australia (Pizzey and Knight, 1999). Offshore waters within the cable corridor provide suitable foraging habitat for the species. Swift parrot CE Endemic to south-eastern Australia, this species May occur (Lathamus breeds only in Tasmania and migrates to the This species may fly discolor) Australian mainland in autumn (Higgins, 1999). over the area during In NSW, the species is known to winter mostly migration. on the western slopes of the Great Dividing Range and some areas along the northern and southern coasts including Sydney region (Swift Parrot Recovery Team, 2001). Wandering V, Mig The species undertakes extensive circum-polar Likely to occur albatross migrations. Breeding areas are confined to

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Species name Status Habitat description and availability within the Likelihood of cable corridor occurrence within the cable corridor (Diomedea Antarctic and sub-Antarctic islands in the Atlantic This species is likely to exulans) Ocean, Indian Ocean and waters off the occur in the area as a southern coast of New Zealand. There are a transient visitor while number of wandering albatross that migrate foraging. during the non-breeding season to the coastal waters off Wollongong, south of Sydney (Nicholls and Robertson, 2007). Juveniles migrate from their natal grounds to the subtropical Indian Ocean and Tasman Sea (Weimerskirch et al., 2006). Offshore waters within the cable corridor provide suitable foraging habitat for the species, and as such is listed as a BIA for this species. White-bellied V Occurs in the tropical and subtropical waters of Likely to occur storm-petrel the Pacific, Indian and Atlantic Oceans, and is This species is likely to (Fregetta known to occur off the coast of NSW (Marchant occur in the area as a grallaria and Higgins, 1990). It breeds in colonies on transient visitor while grallaria) small islets and rocks in the Lord Howe Island foraging. (northeast of Sydney) and Kermadec Island complexes (northeast of New Zealand) (Hutton, 1991; Marchant and Higgins, 1990; McAllan et al., 2004; DoEE, 2017b). Offshore waters within the cable corridor provide suitable foraging habitat for the species. White-capped V Common off the coast of south east Australia Likely to occur albatross (DoEE, 2017b). Breeding takes place off the This species may fly (Thalassarche south coast of New Zealand (Marchant and over and/or forage in cauta steadi) Higgins, 1990). Little is known of the breeding the area. biology or migration patterns of this species (DoEE, 2017b). Offshore waters within the cable corridor may provide suitable foraging habitat for the species, and as such is listed as a BIA for this species. Note: CE: Critically Endangered; En: Endangered; V: Vulnerable; Mig: Migratory

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B.10.7 Listed Migratory Species Eighty listed migratory species were identified by the Protected Matters Search as matters having the potential to occur within the cable corridor. In addition to those 80, many terrestrial birds and plants were also recorded but have been omitted given the project is wholly marine and high level review against those species identified there was no potential to overlap with them. The remaining species include:  13 marine mammals (of which 5 are threatened and assessed in Section B.10.6)  Five reptiles (of which all are threatened and assessed in Section B.10.6)  Six sharks (of which 2 are threatened and assessed in Section B.10.6)  56 birds (of which 15 are threatened and assessed in Section B.10.6). Remaining 53 species not assessed in the previous sections are described and assessed in Table B-13. Table B-13 Listed Migratory Species – Mainland Australian EEZ (Sydney) Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route Mammals

Antarctic minke A robust, generally Migrates between winter Likely to occur whale, dark- solitary baleen whale. tropical/sub-tropical This species is likely to shoulder minke They are known to breeding grounds to transit the area during whale occur offshore within Antarctic feeding grounds annual migrations. (Balaenoptera cold temperate to in summer. Calving occurs bonaerensis) Antarctic waters in warmer waters during (DoEE, 2017b). late May and early June after winter migration from Antarctic waters (DoEE, 2017b). Bryde's whale A small baleen whale Patterns of migration are Likely to occur (Balaenoptera that is not considered not clearly understood. This species is likely to edeni) gregarious. Inhabits Some evidence that the transit the area during tropical and warm offshore form may migrate annual migrations. temperate waters. to tropical water during Travels alone or in winter (DoEE, 2017b). pairs. Small population estimated from Australian waters (DoEE, 2017b). Dugong The dugong is a large Migrate in response to the Unlikely to occur (Dugong dugon) herbivorous marine changing availability of This species may transit mammal. It is closely suitable seagrasses, or in through northern waters of associated with response to water NSW during migrations but seagrass meadows temperature (Eros et al., is unlikely to overlap with and is typically found 2002). Known to undertake the cable corridor which along the coastline of long-distance lacks core habitat for this northern Australia migration/dispersal events species. (DoEE, 2017b). (DoEE, 2017b).

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route This species is occasionally observed in NSW, with sightings north of Sydney (Allen et al., 2004). Dusky dolphin Small dolphin species Long distance migrations Unlikely to occur (Lagenorhyncus mainly found in have been reported from The cable corridor is not obscurus) temperate and sub- around the world. Little within the known range of Antarctic waters, information is available on this species. generally inshore. migratory movements or Rarely reported in timing of this species in the Australia, no calving spill trajectory area, all areas have been though there is a potential identified in Australian seasonal link (DoEE, waters (DoEE, 2017b). 2017b). Indo-pacific Humpback dolphins Humpback dolphins do not May occur humpback are known to occur undertake large scale Although this species is dolphin (Sousa along the northern seasonal migrations, known from NSW, core chinensis) Australian coastline. however seasonal changes habitat for this species is This species primarily in abundance occurs not found within the cable occurs in shallow and (DoEE, 2017b). corridor. It may occur in the protected habitats, area as a transient visitor. including estuaries, rivers, shallow bays and inshore reefs (DoEE, 2017b). Killer whale Pelagic species often Killer whales make Likely to occur (Orcinus orca) inhabiting waters on seasonal migrations, and This species is likely to the continental shelf. may follow regular overlap with the area as a Distributed along the migratory pathways; transient visitor or during Australian coast, but however this has not been migration. most frequently proven. No specific on observed around migratory information Tasmania, South pathways along the NSW Australia and Victoria. coast is documented. Macquarie Island Killer whales have been (southern Indian recorded relocating to Ocean) is an important Antarctic waters during region for the species summer months and back (DoEE, 2017b). to warmer waters during winter. This suggests that during the winter months would be the highest likelihood of occurrence of killer whales outside of the Antarctic.

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route Pygmy right Pygmy right whales Patterns of migration are May occur whale have primarily been not clearly understood This species may transit (Caperea recorded in areas (DoEE, 2017b). In the area during annual marginata) associated with Australian waters, weaned migrations. upwellings and with juveniles migrate south high zooplankton where prey is more abundance (DoEE, abundant (Kemper, 2002). 2017b). Sperm whale Largest of the toothed Little information is May occur (Physeter whales. Gregarious available on migratory This species may transit macrocephalus) species that forms an pathways or timing within the area during annual average pod size of 25 the spill trajectory area. migrations. individuals. Females Moves in southerly Core habitat for this and young males direction for summer species is not found within restricted to warmer months and northerly the cable corridor. waters, and they also direction in winter months inhabit deep oceanic (DoEE, 2017b). waters (usually >600 m deep). Species are known from all Australian states, including along the NSW coastline (DoEE, 2017b). Fish

Giant manta ray Reaching at least The species has a circum- May occur (Manta birostris) 6.7 m, the giant manta tropical distribution, with the This species may occur in ray is the largest ray most frequently reported the area as a transient species (Last and records occurring off visitor. Stevens, 2009). The tropical Australia (Last and species is a filter Stevens, 2009). The feeder, with a diet species occasionally predominantly migrates into temperate comprising of small waters (Last and Stevens, planktonic organisms. 2009). The species is known to occur off NSW. Porbeagle, Temperate and cold- Known to move thousands May occur mackerel shark temperate shark of kilometres around This species may occur in (Lamna nasus) species, world-wide temperate water band the area as a transient distribution. Coastal surrounding the globe. No visitor. and oceanic species, information is available on more common on migratory timing. continental shelves (Stevens et al., 2006). Reef manta ray The smallest of the The species is found in all May occur (Manta alfredi) manta species, not three of the world's major

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route exceeding 5 m disc oceans, although most This species may occur in width (distance commonly encountered in the nearshore area as a between two wing the Indian Ocean and south transient visitor. tips). The topside of Pacific. Key aggregation the species is mostly sites include: Hawaii, black, with light Australia, Komodo, patches around the Maldives, Yap, Palau, Bali, shoulder region and Southern Mozambique (Mantaray-World, (Manta, Matcher 2016). 2014). The species is known to occur off NSW. Shortfin mako, Offshore littoral and Known to migrate distances Likely to occur mako shark epipelagic shark >3000 km. Little information This species is likely to (Isurus species found in on migratory patterns or occur in the area. oxyrinchus) depths up to 500 m. timing. Widespread throughout tropical and temperate oceans worldwide (Cailliet et al., 2009). Birds

Bar-tailed A wading bird that Undertakes migrations Unlikely to occur godwit occurs in coastal south from breeding This species is unlikely to (Limosa habitats and brackish grounds in the Northern be found outside of shallow lapponica) wetlands. Forages in Hemisphere. Departs for coastline waters. sheltered intertidal Australia in July, and areas, including arrives in August in beaches. Roosts on northwest Australia at sandy beaches, which point small numbers sandbars and spits disperse to east and south (Marchant and Australia. Commences the Higgins, 1990). return journey in February (Marchant and Higgins, 1993). Black-tailed The black-tailed godwit Breeds in the northern May occur godwit occurs singly or in hemisphere, and migrates This species may occur in (Limosa limosa) small or large groups, into Australia from late the nearshore area as a within the coastal August (Higgins and transient visitor. fringes of Australia, Davies, 1996). Returns to including NSW. breeding grounds from late Inhabits sheltered summer into early Autumn estuaries, bays and (DoEE, 2017b). lagoons with intertidal sandflats or mudflats (DoEE, 2017b).

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route Broad-billed This small wading bird Commences migration from Likely to occur sandpiper is most common on breeding grounds in late This species is known to (Limicola the north and July, and arrives in occur in the Sydney region. falcinellus) northwest coasts of northwest Australia around This species is likely to Australia. In NSW, this October. Species overfly the region during species is regularly commences migration in annual migrations or occur observed in small April to return to breeding in the area as a transient numbers (DoEE, grounds (DoEE, 2017b). visitor. 2017b). It inhabits sheltered coastal areas and mudflats, and occasionally reefs and rocky outcrops (Higgins and Davies, 1996). Common The species occurs The species breeds in the Likely to occur greenshank singly or in small to Palaearctic, migrating south This species is likely to (Tringa large flocks along for the boreal winter. overfly the region during nebularia) coastal and inland Arrives in Australia from annual migrations. wetlands. It has been August (DoEE, 2017b). recorded in most coastal regions of Australia (DoEE, 2017b). Common noddy Mainly occurs across Migratory patterns are Likely to occur (Anous stolidus) much of Queensland’s poorly known. Outside of This species is known to coast, and Australian breeding season, islands forage in the region. islands including, including Norfolk and Lord Norfolk and Lord Howe Howe are completely Island (DoEE, 2017b). deserted. Species are known to forage far from shore, and kilometres from breeding grounds (DoEE, 2017b). Common This sandpiper is a This sandpiper breeds in Unlikely to occur sandpiper shoreline bird common Eurasia and migrates south This species is unlikely to (Actitis to most coastlines of arriving in Australia from be found outside of shallow hypoleucos) Australia. It forages in July onwards. Species coastline waters. shallow marine, arrives in NSW in August estuarine and (DoEE, 2017b). freshwater environments (DoEE, 2017b). Double-banded A moderately sized Partly migratory and Likely to occur plover wading bird, commonly generally dispersive. This species is known to (Charadrius observed in wetlands, Majority of the population occur in the Sydney region. bicinctus) beaches, saltmarshes migrates to northern New This species is likely to and grassy flats in Zealand, southeast overfly the region during

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route eastern and southern Australia or southwest annual migrations or occur Australia. Species Australia for winter period in the area as a transient breeds throughout (Marchant and Higgins, visitor. New Zealand (DoEE, 1993). 2017b). Fleshy-footed A large broad-winged, The shearwater migrates Likely to occur shearwater blackish-brown between breeding colonies This species is known to (Ardenna shearwater. It typically in the southern Indian and aggregate and forage in the carneipes) forages and moves south-western Pacific region. over continental Oceans west to South shelves and slopes Africa, north to the Arabian and occasionally Sea, Maldives and Sri inshore waters Lanka, and north-west to (BirdLife International, the Pacific Ocean. 2017a). The birds depart Lord Mainly occurs (and Howe Island at the breeds) off southern completion of the breeding Australia; however the season (late August to mid waters off NSW to May) (DoEE, 2017b). QLD is listed as a BIA for foraging for this species. Fork-tailed swift The fork-tailed swift is The fork-tailed swift usually May occur (Apus pacificus) a non-breeding visitor arrives in Australia around Whilst this bird does not to all states and October; some arrive early forage at sea, it may territories of Australia in September, however, traverse to coastal and (Higgins, 1999) and is this is rare. Some birds offshore islands around the almost exclusively have been sighted in NSW cable route in NSW waters. aerial and mainly arriving between October– occur over foothills an March (DoEE, 2017b). in coastal areas in Australia. Widespread across most areas of Australia, they have been recorded in NSW (DoEE, 2017b). Great A large pelagic and Migratory patterns are Unlikely to occur frigatebird, aerial frigatebird that poorly known. Species are This species is unlikely to greater occurs predominately known to travel long occur in the area as a frigatebird in tropical waters distances to forage transient visitor. (Fregata minor) across the Indian and (Marchant and Higgins, Core habitat for this Pacific Oceans. In 1993); core habitat is north species is not found within Australia, population is of cable corridor. the cable corridor. abundant from Cape York Peninsular to Fraser Island, however stragglers are more

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route common at Brisbane, QLD and Coffs Harbour, NSW (Marchant and Higgins, 1993). Grey plover The species occurs as The species breeds in the May occur (Pluvialis solitary or in small northern hemisphere, This species may occur in squatarola) flocks in coastal migrating into Australia and the nearshore area as a margins throughout southern hemisphere transient visitor. Australia. Forages in countries during the boreal exposed mudflats and winter (DoEE, 2017b). beaches, occasionally Arrives in eastern Australia in wetlands and between August to pasture; roosts on December (Marchant and sheltered sandy areas Higgins, 1993). (DoEE, 2017b). Grey-tailed A moderately sized Moves south from breeding Likely to occur tattler wading bird found in grounds along the east This species is known to (Tringa the coastal regions of coast of Asia. Arrives in occur in the Sydney region. brevipes) Australia, although is Australia in August This species is likely to most concentrated in onwards. Commences the overfly the region during the north (Higgins and return journey in April annual migrations or occur Davies, 1996). In (DoEE, 2017b). in the area as a transient NSW, species is most visitor. frequently observed in the coastal regions north of Sydney. Generally prefers sheltered coastal habitats, and roosts in mangrove forests (DoEE, 2017b). Species is known to breed in Siberia. Latham’s snipe, The largest Australian Depart from breeding Likely to occur Japanese snipe snipe. Generally grounds from July through This species is known to (Gallinago solitary or in loose to November. The occur in the Sydney region. hardwickii) congregations of few migratory pathway to This species is likely to individuals (Higgins Australia is poorly overfly the region during and Davies, 1996). understood. Flocks start to annual migrations or occur Habitat includes arrive in Australia in July in the area as a transient permanent and (Higgins and Davies, 1996). visitor. ephemeral wetlands Birds commence the return with dense vegetation journey in late February for cover. Distribution (DoEE, 2017b). covers east and southeast Australia, and breeding occurs in

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route Japan and eastern Russia (DoEE, 2017b). This species is known to occur in the Sydney region. Lesser Smallest aerial species Species are aerial feeders, Unlikely to occur frigatebird, least in the Fregatidae and can forage up to 500 This species is unlikely to frigatebird family. Distributed km from breeding sites. occur in the area as a (Fregata ariel) throughout tropical Little is known on migratory transient visitor. waters across the patterns (Marchant and Core habitat for this Indian and Pacific Higgins, 1993). species is not found within Oceans. Species have the cable corridor. been recorded along the east coast near Byron Bay. Breeding sites are located on northern oceanic islands, including Christmas, Manowar and Cocos-Keeling Islands (Marchant and Higgins, 1993). Little curlew The smallest known Arrives on breeding May occur (Numenius curlew in the family grounds, Russia, in late Areas within the cable minutus) Scolopacidae. Known May, and leaves during the corridor are not considered from coastal regions in second half of July. Arrives relevant to support foraging Australia, distributed in northern Australia in late and roosting for this largely between Port October, and then species. Headland, WA and disperses south or inland This species may overfly Queensland coast. during November to the region during annual This species moves in December (DoEE, 2017b). migrations flocks of thousands. Forages in grasslands and sedgelands near to pools or floodplains. Also known to inhabit sheltered beaches, grassy flats and saltmarshes (DoEE, 2017b). Little tern A small, slight tern with Can be sedentary, or May occur (Sternula gregarious behaviour. wholly or partly migratory. This species may overfly albifrons) Australian population The eastern population is the region during annual consists of several migratory and vacates the migrations. sub-populations, with east coast in late summer- Key habitat not known the eastern autumn. The migratory within the cable corridor. population’s pathway of this population distribution covering

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route the east coast of is poorly understood Australia. This species (DoEE, 2017b). generally occurs along sandy coastlines and mangrove mudflats (DoEE, 2017b). Long-toed stint The long-toed stint is a Breeding distribution is Unlikely to occur (Calidris very small sandpiper. poorly known, and the Species records are subminuta) This species occurs in species is a passage uncommon along the east a variety of terrestrial migrant through eastern coast of Australia, and wetlands, foraging in Asia. It is a regular summer records in NSW are wet mud or in shallow visitor to Australia, but irregular and scattered. water (DoEE, 2017b). uncommon along the east coast. Records in NSW are irregular and widely scattered (Higgins and Davies, 1996) Marsh The species occur The species breeds in Unlikely to occur sandpiper singly or in small to eastern Europe, Siberia Species rarely recorded (Tringa large flocks along and northern China, along the coastline. stagnatilis) coastal fringes. Prefers migrating during boreal wetlands (including winter months into southern freshwater wetlands), hemisphere countries, tidal floodplains and including Australia (DoEE, mudflats. This species 2017b). Migrates out of generally avoids Australia in March-April coastal habitats (Marchant and Higgins, (DoEE, 2017b). 1993). Oriental plover, A delicate, moderately Commences migration from May occur oriental dotterel sized, gregarious breeding grounds in July. Areas within the cable (Charadrius plover that forms Within Australia, the corridor are not considered veredus) flocks (Marchant and oriental plovers arrive in relevant to support foraging Higgins, 1993). north western Australia in and roosting for this Observed in coastal September, and then species. habitats and open, disperse to other coastal This species may overfly sparsely vegetated regions and inland habitats. the region during annual grasslands. Breeds in The return journey migrations. Mongolia and Russia. commences in February Within Australia, most (Marchant and Higgins, records are 1993). concentrated in northern Australia (DoEE, 2017b). Osprey The osprey is a Breeding range extends Likely to occur (Pandion medium sized raptor around the northern coast Suitable habitat exists haliaetus) that primarily inhabits of Australia from Albany in adjacent to the cable coastal and estuarine WA to Lake Macquarie in corridor, and it is likely the habitats (Marchant and NSW, with a second species will overfly the

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route Higgins, 1993). The breeding population on the corridor during migration species prefers littoral coast of SA (DoEE, 2017b). and feeding. and coastal habitats and terrestrial wetlands of tropical and temperate Australia and offshore islands (DoEE, 2017b). Pacific golden They often form flocks Breeds in northern May occur plover of between 20-50 hemisphere and migrates This species may overfly (Pluvialis fulva) individuals and occur into Australia for the boreal the region during annual throughout the coastal winter (DoEE, 2017b). migration. Core habitat margins of Australia. Departs Australia in does not exist within the The species is rarely autumn, prior to the austral cable corridor. recorded in southern winter (Marchant and or south-west Higgins, 1993). coastlines (DoEE, 2017b). They are known to occur on east-coast areas. Pectoral The species prefers Breeding occurs in northern Unlikely to occur sandpiper coastal and near Russia and North America, Due to its rarity in Australia (Calidris coastal wetland and the species is transient and its preference for the melanotos) habitats that have through Central America coastal zone, it is unlikely open fringing mudflats and the Caribbean while on to occur within the cable and low, emergent or corridor to non-breeding route. fringing vegetation areas in South America. (Higgins and Davies, There are also scattered 1996). Species is records from Hawaii, widespread, but Polynesia and Australasia scattered throughout (DoEE, 2017b). NSW (DoEE, 2017b). Pin-tailed snipe During non-breeding Species distribution in Unlikely to occur (Gallinago periods, species occur Australia is not well A single record occurred in stenura) at the edges of understood, with confirmed NSW in West Wyalong, far shallow, freshwater records in NSW, WA and inland from the cable wetlands with sparse northern Australia (DoEE, corridor. The species to dense vegetation 2017b). prefers freshwater wetland cover (DoEE, 2017b). Leaving breeding grounds habitats, and is unlikely to in Siberia between August occur in saline and September, the environments adjacent to species arrives in Australia, the project footprint. at the Pilbara, from September to March. There are no winter records in Australia (Higgins and Davies, 1996).

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route Red-necked This species occurs Departs from breeding May occur stint near coastal and grounds June through to They may occur in the (Calidris inland waters, but are August. Reaches Australia nearshore area as a ruficollis) known to use wet from August, although most transient visitor. paddocks and arrive in September. Within grasslands (Higgins southeast Australia, birds and Davies, 1996). inhabit inland wetlands from October to November, and then move to marine habitats in December (DoEE, 2017b) Ruddy turnstone Widespread in coastal Species generally moves Likely to occur (Arenaria regions of Australia, south during the non- This species is likely to interpres) although has been breeding season. East overfly the area during recorded inland Australian and New migration. (Higgins and Davies, Zealand population migrate 1996). Closely south from east Asia across associated with rocky the Pacific Ocean, arriving coastlines or coral from September (DoEE, reefs and does not 2017b). breed in Australia (DoEE, 2017b). Ruff (reeve) A rare but regular Breeds in the northern May occur (Philomachus visitor to all states and hemisphere and migrates Areas within the cable pugnax) territories in Australia. south for the winter. Arrive corridor are not considered Most NSW records in Australia from relevant to support foraging come from the Sydney September to April (Higgins and roosting for this region (DoEE, 2017b). and Davies, 1996). species. Generally found in This species may overfly fresh to brackish the region during annual wetlands and have migrations been observed on sheltered coasts, estuaries and sandpits (Higgins and Davies, 1996). Sanderling A small wader of Moves from breeding areas Likely to occur (Calidris alba) coastal and inland to the south in the non- This species is likely to waters in Australia. breeding season. Arrives in overfly the region during Generally found on northwest Australia in annual migrations or occur sandy beaches or September. Generally in the area as a transient rocky outcrops arrives in the Sydney area visitor. exposed to wave in August (Higgins and action (DoEE, 2017b; Davies, 1996). Higgins and Davies, 1996).

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route Sharp-tailed A stout sandpiper that Departs breeding grounds Likely to occur sandpiper inhabits the muddy in late June, moving down This species is likely to (Calidris margins of freshwater through Asia and New overfly the region during acuminata) wetlands. Forages on Guinea. Arrives in Australia annual migrations bare substrate or in mid-August. Returns to shallow water. Inhabits breeding grounds in April coastal and inland (DoEE, 2017b). waters throughout Australia (DoEE, 2017b). Eleven important international sites for this species exist in NSW, including Tuggerah Lakes, approximately 100 km north of Sydney (Bamford et al., 2008). Short-tailed A marine, pelagic Undertakes summer Likely to occur shearwater shearwater. migration southwards from This species may overfly (Ardenna Distributed throughout Northern Pacific to the region during annual tenuirostris) the Pacific Ocean, with breeding grounds along the migration. Key foraging breeding areas on south and south east habitat known within the islands off the NSW islands of Australia cable corridor coast (Marchant and (Marchant and Higgins, Higgins, 1993). 1993). The waters off the Bass Strait, southern and central NSW are listed as a BIA for foraging for this species. Streaked A marine, pelagic Undertakes migrations to May occur shearwater shearwater. warmer waters during This species may overfly (Calonectris Distributed throughout winter, typically to Vietnam, the region during annual leucomelas) the northwest Pacific the Philippines, New migration. Key habitat not Ocean, with breeding Guinea and Australia known within the cable areas along the coast (Marchant and Higgins, corridor and/or islands of 1990; Takahashi et al., China, Japan, North 2008; Yamamoto et al., Korea, South Korea 2010). and Russia. Recorded in NSW (DoEE, 2017b; Marchant and Higgins, 1990). Swinhoe’s snipe A short, broad, Suitable habitat exists Unlikely to occur (Gallinago medium size snipe along the east coast of Although suitable coastal megala) with a long, straight habitat occurs adjacent to

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Name Description Migratory patterns Likelihood of occurrence within the cable route bill, blunt wings, a Australia, however, few the cable corridor, few short tail and short definite records exist. definite records occur in legs. Specific habitat The species breeds in Australia with records to Australia includes central Siberia and occurring mostly in the dense clumps of grass Mongolia and moves north. and rushes along southeast through Russia edges of fresh and from August to late brackish wetlands September. The species (Higgins and Davies, arrives in Australia from 1996). October to April, with records occurring mostly in the north. Species leaves Australia in April (Higgins and Davies, 1996). Terek sandpiper The Terek sandpiper is Breeds in Eurasia, moves May occur (Xenus a wader that generally south into non-breeding Areas within the cable cinereus) roosts communally in areas during boreal winter corridor are not considered mangrove areas, and (DoEE, 2017b). relevant to support foraging forages on mudflats. and roosting for this Species records are species. scattered along the This species may overfly coast in NSW (DoEE, the region during annual 2017b). migrations. Wandering Found on rocky coasts Breeding occurs in Siberia, May occur tattler with reefs and Alaska and northwest Suitable habitat occurs (Tringa incana) platforms, points, spits, Canada. The species is within the cable corridor piers, offshore islands widespread throughout the and the species has been and shingle beaches. tropical Pacific, from recorded along the east Although uncommon, Hawaii, south to Polynesia, coast of Australia, however the species has been the Kermadec Islands and the species is uncommon in observed along the New Zealand, and to east this area. east coast as far south Australia, New Guinea and as Moruya in NSW East Micronesia (DoEE, (DoEE, 2017b). 2017b). Whimbrel They occur primarily in Breeds in the northern May occur (Numenius coastal habitats, hemisphere, the whimbrel This species may occur in phaeopus) particularly sheltered enters Australia in August the nearshore area as a intertidal mudflats. It is and September and returns transient visitor. widely spread on the to northern hemisphere in NSW coastline (DoEE, February (DoEE, 2017b; 2017b). Higgins and Davies, 1996). Note: CE: Critically Endangered; En: Endangered; V: Vulnerable; Mig: Migratory.

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B.10.8 Summary of Protected Matters Occurrence

Places of Importance

A Protected Matters search of the Perth EEZ cable corridor was reviewed to inform which matters protected under the EPBC Act have a likelihood of overlapping with the proposed action. That, coupled with review of desktop information, has identified that the cable corridor will not overlap, and therefore is not expected to impact upon any:  World Heritage places  National Heritage places  Wetlands of international importance The cable intersects Beagle Commonwealth Marine Reserve (Multiple Use Zone (IUCN VI)). The cable corridor also traverses the Apollo Commonwealth Marine Reserve but the actual cable route does not intersect with this area; it passes to the near south. No interference with the Apollo Marine Reserve is expected.

KEFs transected by the cable route include the West Tasmanian Canyons and Canyons on the Eastern Continental Slope. In addition to these matters a number of threatened and migratory species may also be affected by the proposed action. Those are summarised following.

Threatened Species

Following a review of known distributions and occurrence, habitat preferences and migratory pathways, the following threatened species were identified as likely to occur in the cable corridor:  Four marine mammals  Two reptiles  Two fish  22 birds For these species, the likelihood of occurrence largely relates to known migration pathways overlapping with the cable corridor and/or neighbouring feeding grounds and BIA’s. Therefore, the interactions with the project would be limited on a temporal basis during migration events. Information Information regarding sensitive time windows for some of the threatened species likely to occur within the cable corridor is provided in Table B-. For example, humpback whale migration through the SSPZ region occurs in late autumn, through to early-mid spring. As such, for deployment of the cable during summer months, chance of interactions with this species would be negligible. A number of other species are, however, known to occur in the cable corridor year round, such as Great white sharks. Such species are typically highly mobile with a large home range. Accordingly, the likelihood of interaction with the proposed cable is considered to be negligible.

Migratory Species

Following a review of known distributions and occurrence, habitat preferences and migratory pathways, the following migratory species were identified as likely to occur in the cable corridor.  Three marine mammals  One shark

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 12 birds As with the listed threatened species, overlap of the cable corridor with the known migratory pathways drive the likelihood of occurrence for these listed migratory species. Suitable habitats and BIAs exist in the cable route for some species. However, BIA’s are very large and the cable-laying route within the assessed corridor is very narrow (10 m width) and the proposed action of installation is temporary. Therefore, the interactions with the project during installation would be limited on a temporal basis during migration events or restricted to waters in the vicinity of the upwelling feeding grounds. Once the cable is laid the majority of species are not expected to interact with it on the seabed. Accordingly, for all species the potential for interactions with the cable corridor are predicted to remain low and, in the majority of cases, they would be limited to migration events during narrow temporal periods. Information regarding sensitive time windows during which interactions may occur with different threatened and migratory species is provided in Table B-14.

B.11 Other Protected Matters The Protected Matters Report for the cable corridor also identified a number of other marine matters that are protected under the EPBC Act. These included 43 marine mammals, six reptiles and 81 birds, and 39 fish. These species are listed in the Protected Matters Report are available in Appendix E and are addressed following:

B.11.1 Additional Marine Mammals Forty-three marine mammals described as other protected matters were listed in the Protected Matters Report. Of the 43, 30 of these species were not listed as either threatened or migratory and have not yet been assessed in previous sections. These species can be categorised as the following:  Two fur seal species  One baleen whale species  18 toothed whale species  Nine dolphin species

Likelihood of Occurrence These species mammals may occur within the cable corridor. Many are migratory with movement patterns unknown or poorly understood (e.g. sperm whales). Suitable habitat exists within the cable corridor for these species. However, these animals are all considered to be highly mobile species and the corridor is not considered to support key habitats or core distribution pathways for these marine mammals.

B.11.2 Additional Reptiles Six reptile species were listed in the Protected Matters Report. Of the six, only one, the yellow- bellied seasnake (Pelamis platurus), was not listed as either threatened or migratory and has not been assessed as yet.

Likelihood of Occurrence

The yellow-bellied seasnake is described as being the most pelagic of all of the sea snakes, and is widely distributed throughout Australian coastal and open waters. Given the large portion of the corridor that overlaps with this species distribution this species is considered likely to occur

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within the cable corridor at some point during the project. The species is, however, mobile and interactions are likely to be transient in nature.

B.11.3 Additional Birds Eighty-one birds were listed in the Protected Matters Report. With the exceptions of 12 bird species, all of these other listed bird species were also considered to be either threatened, migratory or both and were previously assessed in Table B-1212 and Table B-13.

Likelihood of Occurrence

No terrestrial or wetland habitats will be affected by the proposed action. The bird species that utilise these habitats may overfly the region when moving between feeding areas or during annual migrations, or they may occur in the area as transient visitors. No habitats within the cable corridor are, however, considered to provide key habitats or core distributional pathways for these birds.

B.11.4 Additional Fish Thirty-nine fish were identified as other protected matters in the Protected Matters Report. All of these species were pipefish, pipehorses seadragons and seahorses belonging to the family Syngnathidae. Fish within this family generally inhabit coastal waters with diverse benthic structure (e.g. seagrasses, rocky or coral reefs etc.) (Foster and Vincent, 2004).

Likelihood of Occurrence

The mapped distribution of these species indicates that at least some of these other protected fish species are likely to occur within the cable corridor given rocky reef in the nearshore areas may provide suitable habitat for the syngnathids.

B.11.5 Commonwealth Marine Reserves Three Commonwealth Marine Reserves were identified in the Protected Matters Report, including (Figure B-14 14):  Apollo Multiple Use Zone (IUCN VI)  Beagle Multiple Use Zone (IUCN VI)  East Gippsland Multiple Use Zone (IUCN VI)

Of these, the cable route transects only the Beagle marine park; the cable route does also lie within 500 m of the southern boundary of the Apollo marine park, and within 6 km of the East Gippsland marine park, respectively. Given the distance to the East Gippsland marine park no interference with values of that park is expected to occur. Beagle marine park is managed under the South-east Commonwealth Marine Reserves Network Management Plan 2013-23 (Director of National Parks, 2013). The full extent of this reserve is designated as a Multiple Use Zone (IUCN VI). As identified by the DoEE (2017c), major conservation values of Beagle include:  Habitats and associated communities of the Southeast Shelf Transition (see Section B.8.4)  Migratory and feeding area for the southern right whale  Foraging area for threatened and migratory marine mammals, fish and marine birds  Wreck of SS Cambridge and Eliza Davies.

A review of the South-east Commonwealth Marine Reserves Network Management Plan 2013- 23 (Director of National Parks, 2013) has identified that the proposed cable installation is

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consistent with the management plan objectives, and would likely fall under ‘Structures and Works’ (section 5.9), for which an authorisation may be issued in the zone of relevance

Apollo Reserve is managed under the South-east Commonwealth Marine Reserves Network Management Plan 2013-23 (Director of National Parks, 2013). The full extent of this reserve is designated as a Multiple Use Zone (IUCN VI). As identified by the DoEE (2017d), major conservation values of Apollo include:  Habitats and associated communities of the Western Bass Strait Shelf Transition and the Bass Strait Shelf Province (see Sections B.8.2 and B.8.3)  Migratory area for the blue, fin, sei and humpback whales  Foraging area for threatened and migratory marine birds  Wreck of MV City of Rayville.

While the cable corridor directly overlaps with Apollo Reserve, the route and direct footprint of the cable are not expected to intersect this reserve. As such, no interference with the values of this park are expected to occur.

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Western Kangaroo A D E L A I D E Island Jervis Southern Western Kangaroo Eyre Island

M E L B O U R N E East Murray Apollo Gippsland

Beagle

Nelson

Boags Flinders

Zeehan Franklin

Freycinet H O B A R T Legend Place names POP Cable route Huon Cable corridor Commonwealth Marine Reserve Tasman Mainland Fracture Sydney Protection Zones South SSPZ Tasman Rise Exclusive Economic Zone Australian Exclusive Economic Zone

Paper Size ISO A4 ALCATEL SUBMARINE NETWORKS Project No. 21-26628 0 100 200 INDIGO Central Revision No. 1 Environmental Impact Assessment Date 14/12/2017 Kilometres Commonwealth marine protected areas Horizontal Datum: GDA 1994 and the Central cable corridor Grid: GCS GDA 1994 from the EEZ entrance to Sydney FIGURE B-14 N:\AU\Brisbane\Projects\21\26628\GIS\MXD\Central\AB_21_26628_017_rev_1.mxd Data . GHD - POP, Cable route (28 - Nov2017), Cable Corridor (2017). DNRM - Place names (2017). GA: Mainland, Bathymetry (2009), EEZ (2017), Coastal Waters Boundary (2017), Protected Zones (2017). Print date: 14 Dec 2017 - 11:15 CAPAD - Commonwealth Marine Reserve (2016). Created by: JCM

B.11.6 Summary of Other Protected Matters Occurrence Following a review of known distributions and occurrence, habitat preferences and migratory pathways, the following other protected matters were identified as likely to overlap with the cable corridor/proposed action:  Yellow-bellied seasnake (Pelamis platurus)  Pipefish, pipehorses, seadragons and seahorses belonging to the family Syngnathidae  Beagle Commonwealth Marine Reserve. Review of management objectives for the Beagle Reserve indicates that the proposed action is consistent with, and unlikely to detriment, the management objectives or values of the Beagle Reserve.

The cable route will traverse shallow habitats that may support species of syngnathids. The route has been selected to avoid key habitat for these animals as far as practical. Any potential impacts are expected to be transient in nature during installation and relate primarily to displacement. Once the cable is laid species are expected to return to the area rapidly. The wide ranging distribution of the yellow-bellied seasnake indicates it is likely to overlap with the cable corridor and possibly the route at some point during installation or operation. Any interaction will be transient in nature and no permanent impacts to the species or its habitat are expected to occur.

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B.12 Sensitive Time Windows Windows of ecological sensitivity for environmental values identified within the cable corridor are summarised in Table B-14. Table B-14 Summary of ecologically sensitive timeframes (Sydney to EEZ exit)

Threatened Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec species Cable laying Blue w hale, Sei Migration to/from feeding areas to calving/w intering w hale, Fin w hale areas. Southern right Annual migration from summer feeding grounds (in w hale Antarctic w aters) to tropical breeding grounds, returning by late spring. Migratory pathw ays of this species w ill be crossed by the cable corridor. Humpback Annual migration from summer feeding grounds (in w hale Antarctic w aters) to tropical breeding grounds, returning by late spring. Calving may take place along the NSW coast. Migratory pathw ays of this species w ill be crossed by the cable corridor. Loggerhead and Likely to be present as a transient visitor to the cable corridor - SSPZ. Breeding does not occur green turtles in the region. Great w hite Likely to be present throughout the year. shark Whale shark May be present as a transient visitor to the area. May also breed in area, but biological data is limited for this species. Marine Marine threatened birds may be present and foraging throughout the year. No know n breeding threatened birds areas are w ithin or near to the cable corridor. Migratory marine May be present as a transient A number of species undertake an annual migration May be mammals visitor to the area. from summer feeding grounds (in Antarctic w aters) present to tropical breeding grounds, returning by late as a spring. transient visitor to the area. Migratory sharks Majority of species may be present as a transient visitor to the area. How ever, lamnids (e.g. mako sharks) likely to occur throughout the year. Migratory marine May be present as a transient A number of species undertake an annual migration May be birds visitor to the area. from southern w aters to tropical/temperate present w intering grounds, returning by late spring. as a transient visitor to the area. Cable laying w ill occur from August, and is conservatively assumed to run for a period of 150 days. Peak period of activity – presence reliable and predictable – likelihood of occurrence w ithin the cable corridor is high. Low er level of abundance/activity/presence – may occur w ithin cable corridor. Activity not know n to occur – unlikely to occur w ithin cable corridor.

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