Coastal areas play an important role in the broader ecosystem of the Great Barrier Reef.

Estuaries, wetlands, coastlines, forested floodplains and other habitats provide important linkages between land, freshwater and marine environments, as well as feeding and breeding grounds for many species with connections to the Great Barrier Reef.

The Great Barrier Reef Outlook Report 2009 identifies that the development of coastal areas has, in some cases, resulted in a serious decline in the extent and condition of key coastal habitats. This may increase into the future as populations and economic activity in north Queensland grows.

The primary responsibility for land and water management practices adjacent to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and World Heritage Area rests with Queensland and local government agencies. The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) works closely with agencies at all levels regarding activities associated with the management of Great Barrier Reef coastal ecosystems.

At the national level

The GBRMPA works with the Australian Government on Great Barrier Reef coastal ecosystem management issues.Under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, activities likely to have a significant impact on a matter of 'national environmental significance' require the approval of the Federal Environment Minister. Matters of national environmental significance include the World Heritage values of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

At the state level

To make sure the Great Barrier Reef coastal ecosystems and their functions are appropriately recognised, the GBRMPA works with key state agencies through regional natural resource planning.

At the local level

Through theReef Guardian Council program the GBRMPA works with local government agencies to effectively manage Great Barrier Reef coastal ecosystems.