Dept of Climate Change, Energy, Environment & Water
Decision On Maugean Skate Threatened Species Listing
Based on expert scientific advice I have decided to retain the Maugean skate's status as Endangered, on Australia's list of threatened species.
This decision was informed by the advice of the independent Threatened Species Scientific Committee (TSSC) and contributions from the Tasmanian Government, researchers and public comments.
In line with the TSSC's recommendations, I have approved an updated Conservation Advice on the Maugean skate that provides a rigorous assessment of the available scientific evidence. It also provides a solid foundation to guide urgent conservation planning, actions, and research - which will continue to be funded by the Australian Government.
My decision responds to a public request to uplist the Maugean skate's listing from Endangered to Critically Endangered.
Using comparable assessment criteria, on 9 October 2025 the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species (the IUCN Red List) completed its assessment for the Maugean skate and also concluded the species should be retained in the Endangered category.
The Australian Government remains steadfast in its commitment to ensure the Maugean skate does not go extinct on our watch.
This decision does not change the need to undertake critical actions for the Maugean skate and its home in Macquarie Harbour.
The Australian Government is committed to providing further research and action that will help support recovery of the species.
Since 2021, we have provided $37.5 million to support actions that improve the health of Macquarie Harbour and support the Maugean skate. This includes:
The ongoing research will help inform future decisions about the protection of this very special species.
https://minister.dcceew.gov.au/watt/media-releases/media-statement-decision-maugean-skate-threatened-species-listing
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