Conservation groups are calling on the NSW government to drop its support for a proposed five year-moratorium on new marine parks, claiming it puts the state at odds with scientific and public opinion.
The Shooters Party introduced the Marine Parks Amendment (Moratorium) Bill into parliament in June, when it was given in-principle support by the Labor government.
A coalition of 38 conservation groups has deplored the move, saying marine parks are essential to the long-term sustainability of Australia's fish stocks.
"Marine parks play an absolutely essential role in maintaining the long-term health and sustainability of our oceans," executive director of the National Parks Association of NSW, Kevin Evans, said in a statement.
"The local community understands the importance of marine parks in safeguarding the long-term future of their favourite fishing and swimming locations."
He said a recent survey found 89 per cent of Sydney's residents wanted marine environments protected "even if it meant some fishing restrictions".
Chief executive officer of the Nature Conservation Council, Pepe Clarke, said a moratorium would put NSW out of step with the scientific community.
"A five-year ban on new marine parks in NSW is out of step with public opinion and the advice of scientists from around the world," Ms Clarke said.
"It would put NSW firmly at odds with the growing global recognition of the value of marine protected areas."
A spokeswoman for Environment Minister Frank Sartor said support for the bill was given because the government had no intention of creating new marine parks in the short-term.
However, it has demanded Jervis Bay Marine Park and Solitary Islands Marine Park be exempted, with reviews into their usage underway.
The moratorium bill will be debated when parliament resumes in August.
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