âHumpback whales will remain protected in Australian waters, but they are a good candidate for delisting because their numbers have increased,â Dr Pirotta said. âThis is a good news story. This is an opportunity for us to focus our conservation efforts on species that have more need, like the southern right whale.â The Threatened Species Scientific Committee, which provides independent advice to federal Environment Minister Sussan Ley, is responsible for making proposals for adding or removing listed species under the act. Ms Ley will have the final say. Listed species get extra protection, and any action that could impact on them â such as land clearing or project development â must undergo an environmental assessment.