2021
The iconic, World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef is cherished across the globe for its great beauty, unique natural wonders and amazing diversity.
However, this natural treasure is under pressure from the impacts of:
- climate change
- land-based run-off
- coastal development
- illegal fishing
- light and noise pollution.
The Australian and Queensland governments are committed to protecting the Great Barrier Reef and we all need to work together to address the challenges it faces.
The Reef 2050 Plan is Australia’s overarching strategy to improve the Reef’s health and resilience by delivering coordinated local, national and global action in key areas.
Our vision for the Reef in 2050 is that: The Great Barrier Reef is sustained as a living natural and cultural wonder of the world.
Taking action
The Reef 2050 Plan has 5 priority areas for action:
- limit the impacts of climate change by contributing to global efforts to reduce emissions and supporting the Reef and communities to adapt.
- improve water quality by working with landholders, industries and communities to accelerate action to reduce the impacts from land-based activities.
- reduce impacts from water-based activities by strengthening partnerships with Reef industries and delivering strong marine park management.
- influence the reduction of international sources of impact to reduce marine debris entering the Reef from outside Australia and protect migratory species.
- protect, rehabilitate and restore Reef habitat, species and heritage sites by minimising impacts from disturbances and assisting with their recovery.
These are supported by collaboration, rigorous science, regular monitoring and reporting and $3 billion from the Australian and Queensland governments to deliver the Plan.
Working together
No one can single-handedly combat the threats facing the Great Barrier Reef. Building partnerships and fostering cooperation across various groups and people are at the heart of the Reef 2050 Plan including:
- communities who play a vital role in protecting the Reef
- Traditional Owners who manage their country through active engagement in on-country management, policy and planning programs
- scientists, industry experts and other leaders who provide cutting-edge science and knowledge to guide action and investment
- land managers who make changes to reduce pollutant run-off
- industries that develop and implement sustainable practices to protect the Reef.
A plan for action
The Reef 2050 Plan is based on scientific research, analysis and lessons learnt over four decades of management.
It is a flexible framework that is reviewed every five years. This ensures it remains current and addresses emerging issues informed by the latest knowledge and science.
What you can do
Find out more about what is being done to protect the Reef and how you can get involved: