Heard Island and McDonald Islands (HIMI) is a spectacular and unique area of the world with considerable conservation significance.
The islands were discovered and first visited by people relatively recently. This, combined with minimal human visitation over the last century due to the islands' isolation and climate, means HIMI has experienced few impacts from human activity.
The islands' spectacular landforms and its animals, plants and marine environment are afforded the highest level of protection through their inscription on the World Heritage list and through the declaration of the HIMI Marine Reserve.