A win for whale sharks

WA's iconic whale sharks will get greater protection amid concerns about the number of the endangered animals killed illegally overseas.

The Department of Parks and Wildlife said in its latest annual report it had raised the protection status of the species to safeguard it more appropriately.

It also upgraded WA's woylies to critically endangered after more signs of the species' decline.

Whale sharks are now listed under schedule four of the specially protected fauna list, meaning anyone "interfering" with them faces tougher penalties.

Commercial operators engaged in whale shark tourism will also face closer scrutiny when applying for a licence.

"The whale shark has also recently been listed … in recognition of the need to manage human interactions to ensure they do not pose a threat to this species," the department said.

Environment Minister Albert Jacob backed the change.

"The State Government recognises the conservation importance of the whale shark, which last year was made Western Australia's new marine animal emblem," he said.

"The Government also recognises the need for a regulation framework to support growing tourism interest in this species."