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ABC News

A $6 million whale research program funded by the Federal Government will be carried out using non-lethal methods including aerial surveys and genetic studies. Environment Minister Peter Garrett is hopeful this will show the Japanese that killing whales is unnecessary for studying them in detail, but denied that placing pressure on the Japanese Government was the only reason for the research. Mr Garrett said the study would provide much needed information on whales, and help improve understanding about the threats they face.