On 18 June 2015 the Senate referred the following matter for inquiry and report by 8 April 2016:

The threat of marine plastic pollution in Australia and Australian waters, with particular reference to:

1. the review of current research and scientific understanding of plastic pollution in the marine environment;
2. sources of marine plastic pollution;
3. the impacts of marine plastic pollution, including impacts on species and ecosystems, fisheries, small business, and human health;
4. measures and resourcing for mitigation; and
5. any other relevant matters.