<P> The national conservation status of the great white shark is reflected by all Australian states under their respective laws, granting the species full protection throughout Australia regardless of jurisdiction . Many states had prohibited the killing or possession of great white sharks prior to national legislation coming into effect . The great white shark is further listed as Threatened in Victoria under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act, and as rare or likely to become extinct under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife Conservation Act in Western Australia . </P> <P> In 2002, the Australian government created the White Shark Recovery Plan, implementing government - mandated conservation research and monitoring for conservation in addition to federal protection and stronger regulation of shark - related trade and tourism activities . An updated recovery plan was published in 2013 to review progress, research findings, and to implement further conservation actions . A study in 2012 revealed that Australia's White Shark population was separated by Bass Strait into genetically distinct eastern and western populations, indicating a need for the development of regional conservation strategies . </P> <P> Presently, human - caused shark mortality is continuing, primarily from accidental and illegal catching in commercial and recreational fishing as well as from being caught in beach protection netting, and the populations of great white shark in Australia are yet to recover . </P> <P> As of April 2007, great white sharks were fully protected within 370 kilometers (230 mi) of New Zealand and additionally from fishing by New Zealand - flagged boats outside this range . The maximum penalty is a $250,000 fine and up to six months in prison . </P>

How wide is a great white shark's mouth