About the Program

The WAMSI Kimberley Marine Research Program (KMRP) has delivered the science results that give government natural resource managers, Traditional Owners of saltwater country and researchers access to a comprehensive set of new information to monitor and understand changes in the Kimberley’s unique marine environment.

The 23 research projects that make up the KMRP collectively describe the physical and biological environment, ecosystem processes and the social values and uses of this vast wilderness.

The program spanned the 13,500km Kimberley coastline and brought together more than 200 scientists from 25 organisations, including nine WAMSI partner agencies, and representatives from seven saltwater country Traditional Owner communities.

The KMRP was supported by $12 million from the WA government’s Kimberley Science and Conservation Strategy and co-investment by the WAMSI partners and totalled $30 million in combined investment. The program was also supported by the Traditional Owners of the Kimberley.

Program Management

Name: Dr Stuart Field
Title: Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, WA
Project Role: Program Leader

Name: Dr Kelly Waples
Title: Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, WA
Project Role: Science Coordinator
Contact: kelly.waples@DPaW.wa.gov.au