Significant WWII battle site added to Australia's National Heritage List

A significant World War II battle site in the Pacific Ocean has been added to the National Heritage List, recognising its outstanding heritage significance to Australia.

Located approximately 1000km off the coast of North Queensland, the site includes three American shipwrecks lost in the battle – the USS Sims, the USS Neosho and the USS Lexington – the first United States Navy aircraft carrier lost during World War II.

Photos are available here.

The site recognises the Battle of the Coral Sea, an important naval battle between Australian and American allied forces and Japanese forces heading to Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea in May 1942.

Regarded by many as the ‘Battle that saved Australia’, the historic encounter cemented our alliance with the United States, a relationship that remains strong to this day.

Now sitting more than three kilometres below the ocean surface, the shipwrecks are incredibly well preserved and could provide further information about the historic battle through future investigation.

Minister for the Environment and Water Murray Watt said the site holds national significance in Australia’s history.

“The Second World War was a time of such terrible and unimaginable loss suffered by so many and the Battle of the Coral Sea was central to keeping Australians at home safe,” he said.

“By including the site on the National Heritage List, we can ensure greater protection for a number of historic shipwrecks while preserving a significant piece of world history for future generations.”

Other National Heritage sites around Australia include the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru – Kata Tjuta National Park, Sydney Opera House, and the Beechworth Administrative Precinct.

More information on the National Heritage List: Australia's National Heritage List - DCCEEW