Federal Environment Minister Murray Watt is expediting an assessment of the impact of a toxic algal bloom in South Australia on marine life, aiming to determine if any species need to be added to the threatened species list.

The expedited assessments will evaluate the impact on at-risk species, including the great white shark, coastal stingaree, and pygmy thornback skate, which are already vulnerable due to climate change and other pressures.

The algal bloom has adversely affected over 400 species of marine life, resulting in the deaths of sharks, rays, and fish along the coastline, with thousands of dead sea animals washing up on South Australian beaches for months.

Conservationists stress that the algal bloom threatens already endangered species, particularly highlighting the great white shark's effective population size of fewer than 500 individuals.

Conservation groups are urging the Albanese Government to ensure the Threatened Species Scientific Committee is adequately resourced to swiftly carry out the assessments and develop comprehensive recovery plans.

In response to the bloom, a joint funding package of $28 million was announced by the Federal and State Governments to support scientific research, industry, and clean-up efforts.

The bloom is believed to have originated from severe flooding on the east coast in 2022 and has reportedly grown to twice the size of the Australian Capital Territory.

Experts emphasize that the algal bloom serves as a reminder that climate change is an immediate threat affecting marine ecosystems and the communities relying on them.

Minister Watt emphasized the importance of understanding the impact of the bloom on marine life and the government's commitment to supporting efforts to restore the health of affected species.

Lawrence Chlebeck, a marine biologist, warns that without urgent conservation efforts, these vulnerable species could face extinction due to the algal bloom and ongoing threats from fishing and habitat loss.

The Prime Minister is expected to visit South Australia next week to inspect the algal bloom situation personally.

During his visit to Adelaide, Minister Watt will meet with impacted businesses, industry representatives, and the community to discuss the government's funding and ocean protection plans.