Western Australia respond to shark attacks

Western Australia have set out measures to catch and, if necessary, kill sharks that "pose an imminent threat" to beach-goers.

The measures follow six shark attacks in the state this year, which have killed five swimmers and surfers.

As several of the attacks are believed to have been by great white sharks, which are protected, protesters have been able to prevent the authorities ruling a cull.

However, an A$6.85m (£4.41m) package has been put in place to reduce the risk of shark attacks. In the past fisheries authorities would only kill great whites in response to an attack, but now they may take "provocative action" (catch and kill) sharks that pose a threat to beach-goers, a statement said.

The money also funds a tagging system, research programmes, jet skis for lifesaving and a community awareness programme.

State Premier, Colin Barnett, said in the statement: "These new measures will not only help us to understand the behaviour of sharks but also offer beach-goers greater protection and confidence as we head into summer."