The Australian Democrats today called on the new Labor Government to immediately outline its time-line for proclaiming a Port River dolphin sanctuary.

Further, when the Rann Government enters into negotiations regarding the proclamation of the sanctuary, the Democrats want the proclamation of a national park that extends beyond just the waterway to be top priority for discussion.

"The Democrats welcome the promised Port River Dolphin Sanctuary," said Australian Democrats leader, Mike Elliott, today.

"However, what we need is a national park that incorporates Garden Island, those parts of Torrens Island not taken by power generators, local marine waters and mangroves, as well as the Port River and Barker Inlets.

"The onus is on the new Government to ensure that we protect the whole ecosystem while ensuring the long term sustainability of professional and amateur fishing as the area is an important fish nursery.

"Anything less would not be in the best long term interests of the environment or people of South Australia.

"Proclaiming such a park would not stop recreational use, because demands can be balanced as is demonstrated by other national parks which border our city, like Belair and Para Wirra.

"Instead this would give our kids the chance to appreciate our local marine waters with all their wildlife, including the Port River dolphins."