NESP supported better management of marine parks, coral reefs, coastal habitats and threatened marine species. The research improved understanding of marine ecosystems. It also helped guide work to protect and restore them.
The Government’s commitment to the Great Barrier Reef includes innovative control methods for the Crown-of-thorns starfish.
National Environmental Science Program research has revolutionised control of Crown-of-thorns starfish on the Great Barrier Reef.
More coral is safe from the starfish thanks to dedicated trained divers.
Young people, many of whom are reef Traditional Owners, apply cutting edge starfish control techniques, to help improve the health of the Great Barrier Reef.
The Crown-of-thorns Starfish Control Program, led by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, has reduced starfish damage to economically, and ecologically important reefs, and it has supported hundreds of young trainees to gain employment in marine and tourism industries.
The National Environmental Science Program will continue to deliver the research and the practical action for best practice reef management, both in Australia and around the world.
