The Management Tool Kit

A number of different management tools are used to ensure that the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and the Queensland Great Barrier Reef Coast Marine Park are protected and activities in the area are sustainable. The key aspect of management is working in partnership and cooperating with stakeholders and local communities to find common, mutually beneficial outcomes.

As a tourism operator it is useful to understand these tools and how they relate to your operation.

• The underlying tool is the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975 and its Regulations. It is through this legislation that the Marine Park was established, and ongoing tools such as permits and Plans of Management are provided for. The Queensland State Marine Parks Act 1982 applies to the adjacent State Great Barrier Reef Coast Marine Park (see Related Links).
• The Zoning Plans set out the overarching framework of what you may do and where you may go in the Marine Park (see also Related Links). Before you visit an area take the time to learn about the zoning for where you go.
• In the key tourism areas of Cairns, Hinchinbrook and the Whitsundays, Plans of Management further ensure sustainable use by setting out some broad arrangements for tourism activities. They are an overlay to zoning and help protect the specific natural and cultural values of the area.
• Site management arrangements address specific concerns at key tourism and recreation sites. They use a variety of management arrangements including mooring and anchoring strategies.
• Marine Park policy guides a consistent approach to an issue and helps the practical implementation of legislation and planning (see Related Links). It is a guide to both decision makers and operators.
• All tourism operators are required to have a permit to operate in the Marine Park. It describes the type of operation you may undertake and enables a tailored approach to individual business needs.
• The tourism industry is working closely with the GBRMPA to continue to achieve high standards, and help further protect the Marine Park.
• Well directed compliance and enforcement can help to protect the Marine Park. You can play an important role by reporting any incidents and marine sightings you may see while you are out on the Reef.

Often these management tools may use terms that have a specific meaning when used to describe things in the Marine Park. Please take the time to become familiar with these management 'buzz words'.

Click here to find out the key dates and management changes that have occurred since the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act was introduced in 1975.