In the Pacific Islands region, the dugong is found in the waters of six SPREP members (Australia, Papua New Guinea, Palau, New Caledonia, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu). It is important in many traditions and cultures. Some of the most important remaining dugong habitats are in the Pacific region.

Dugongs have been in existence for millions of years but they are now threatened. Their numbers have decreased in many areas and some populations have now completely disappeared. The dugong is considered vulnerable to extinction on a global scale and all dugong populations are listed in Appendix 1 of the Convention on Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).

In the Pacific, the status of dugong populations is generally unknown. However, the dugong population in Palau can be classified as critically endangered of extinction.
SPREP has in place a regional dugong action plan, which was developed and endorsed by members

Pacific Year of the Dugong 2011

2011 has been declared the Pacific Year of the Dugong. This is a regional campaign aimed at increasing protection of dugongs and their habitats by raising awareness, improving knowledge and fostering to save Dugongs partnerships for conservation of dugongs and their habitats.