The Local Government and Environment Committee has reported back on the Conservation (Natural Heritage Protection) Bill, recommending it be passed with amendments. Among the amendments is a new part increasing penalties under the Marine Mammals Protection Act 1978 for violating marine mammal sanctuaries, apparently sparked by my quick submission. So, submitting on a bill made a positive difference.
The bill is a member's bill, so it will be a couple of months at least before it becomes law.