A young Australian has scooped a prestigious international award for her dedication to protecting the nation's greatest natural asset, the Great Barrier Reef.

Melissa Cowlishaw from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) has been presented with the Tor Hundloe Young Environmental Professional Award from the Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand.

Melissa has been recognised for her dedication to improving management arrangements that protect the Great Barrier Reef and her impressive research and community achievements.

GBRMPA Chairman Russell Reichelt said the Great Barrier Reef was lucky to have people like Melissa committed to ensuring its long-term sustainability.

"The GBRMPA is regularly recognised as world's best-practice in marine park management, and Melissa has enhanced these practices through a number of programs," Dr Reichelt said.

"This includes ensuring the environmental impact assessment procedures for activities in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park are innovative and robust.

"Australia's natural attractions have an international reputation and contribute greatly to the nation's economy. We're proud that people like Melissa are rewarded for their passion and dedication."

Melissa was also recognised for strengthening relationships with the scientific community and tourism industry and developing knowledge sharing systems within marine park managers.

"She is currently completing her PhD studies in marine biology and has volunteered her knowledge and time to educating beach goers about marine wildlife."