The creation of subterranean national park may save a Victorian wetland that experts say will take 300 years to rehabilitate.
Water authority Barwon Water had been pumping water out of aquifers in Otways wetland, causing drained waterways, toxic soil, fish kills, increased bushfire risk, and a total destruction of habitat for platypuses and other wildlife.
While the company finally admitted culpability for these consequences and withdrew their licence renewal, environmental campaigners in the region say Barwon Water has already stated they will resume pumping.
Malcolm Gardiner is president of the Land and Water Resources Otway Catchment, and says this protection would allow the wetlands, springs and waterways to replenish, benefiting both farmers and the environment.