TY for the pin A plan to protect West Australian beachgoers by killing great white sharks that come too close has angered animal welfare advocates and conservationists.

Many were also affronted by Premier Colin Barnett's dismissal of the animals as just "fish".

The government on Thursday announced a $6.85 million package of "shark mitigation" strategies in response to five fatal attacks in the state's waters within 10 months.

It has allocated $2 million for a new Department of Fisheries service to track, catch and destroy sharks found in close proximity to swimmers.

The government has also redefined the circumstances in which an order may be given to kill sharks that pose an imminent threat to humans.

"Previously the orders were used in response to an attack, but now proactive action will be taken if a large white shark presents imminent threat to people," Fisheries Minister Norman Moore said.

Baited drum lines could also be se [link to news.ninemsn.com.au]