Threats to the Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is a natural treasure and one of the world's best managed marine areas — overall, the system retains its outstanding universal value.
However our Great Barrier Reef Outlook Report 2014 and strategic assessment found the Reef is an icon under pressure from:
- Climate change
- Poor water quality from land-based run-off
- Impacts from coastal development
- Illegal fishing
In recent years, a series of major storms and floods have affected an ecosystem already under pressure. Crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks and marine debris are also affecting the area.
The Reef is facing a range of threats over time, scale and duration — the accumulation of all impacts on the Reef has the potential to further weaken its resilience.
This is likely to affect its ability to recover from serious disturbance, such as major coral bleaching events, which are predicted to become more frequent in the future.
Addressing key threats
The Australian and Queensland governments' Reef 2050 Long-Term Sustainability Plan provides an overarching framework for protecting the Reef.
It draws on our 25-year management plan and the findings of our Outlook Report which together provide the largest and up-to-date information on the Reef's health and management.
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Free zoning app
If you're heading out on the water, download and use the free zoning app so you know where you can go and what you can do.
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Important milestone
We're delighted to celebrate the 40 years of the managing the Great Barrier Reef.
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Visit the Reef
Visit our Great Barrier Reef and discover its amazing animals, plants, and habitats.
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What you can do
Everyone has a role to play in protecting our Great Barrier Reef. Find out what you can do to help protect this great Australian icon.
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Report marine strandings
If you see sick, dead or stranded marine animals please call RSPCA QLD 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625)
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Climate Change and the Great Barrier Reef
A Vulnerability Assessment: of the issues that could have far-reaching consequences for the Great Barrier Reef.
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Current Conditions
Current Conditions: Environmental and climatic forecasts for the Great Barrier Reef
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Climate Change Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan 2007-2012