The Albanese Government is stepping up its efforts to protect the Great Barrier Reef for future generations. Recently, they submitted a major update to UNESCO on Australia’s management of this iconic marine park.
This report, requested by UNESCO, highlights ongoing actions taken by the Australian and Queensland governments to strengthen the Reef’s ability to withstand climate change and other challenges.
To date, the Albanese Government has invested a remarkable $1.2 billion to enhance the Reef’s resilience. Together with the Queensland Government, this brings the total investment to over $5 billion since 2014. The Reef contributes more than $9 billion a year to the national economy and supports 77,000 jobs, especially in tourism and related industries.
Recently, significant changes were made to national environmental laws for the first time in over 25 years. Now, land clearing is restricted within 50 meters of watercourses and wetlands in the Reef’s catchment area, a crucial move to protect its Outstanding Universal Value.
In addition, Australia is raising its greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets to combat the risks that climate change poses to the Reef’s future. The country leads one of the largest programs for coral reef climate adaptation globally, aiming to develop effective strategies for resilience.
Improving water quality and promoting sustainable fishing practices are also priorities. Traditional Owners of the Reef are deeply involved in these efforts. Actions against crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks have protected over one million hectares of coral habitat.
- Efforts are underway to enhance water quality by reducing sediment and nutrient runoff, supporting land restoration, and maintaining healthy habitats.
- Substantial reforms in sustainable fishing are being implemented to lower risks to protected species, aiming for a gillnet-free Reef by mid-2027.
- The Reef Restoration and Adaptation Program is one of the largest initiatives of its kind in the world.
On a global scale, the Albanese Government is addressing climate change—the biggest threat to coral reefs and World Heritage sites. Australia is committed to the Paris Agreement, aiming for 82% renewable energy and aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050. The ambitious goal for 2035 is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 62-70% compared to 2005 levels.
Minister for the Environment and Water, Murray Watt, recently visited the Reef, reaffirming the government’s commitment to ensuring a healthy and resilient environment for future generations. He noted, “This report highlights our ongoing commitment against climate change, improving water quality, protecting marine life, and investing heavily in reef programs.”
The State Party Report on the Reef’s conservation is publicly available on the DCCEEW website here.
