Welcome to the online Tourism Operator’s Handbook for the Great Barrier Reef and to operating in one of the world’s most unique and treasured natural environments.
Hon Virginia Chadwick
Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is a ‘wonder’ of the natural world and every year millions of visitors from around the globe experience its beauty. We all have a responsibility to make sure the Reef is protected, its World Heritage values are presented and visitors are able to experience, appreciate and enjoy the Reef now and into the future.
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park provides many exciting and varied opportunities for tourism operators. So that this important industry has a sustainable future in the Marine Park, there are a number of rules, regulations and recommended practices for the area. This website will help you understand these important arrangements and show you ways you can improve your product and become involved in Marine Park management.
Where to begin
If you are just getting started with a tourism operation in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, there are some fundamental things you should learn about.
- Begin by learning about the Marine Park, what it is, what makes it special and how it is managed.
- You will need a Marine Parks permit and to pay the Environmental Management Charge.
- There may be important management arrangements for where you go and these may affect your planned operation.
- Check any specific arrangements for what you do.
- Aim to achieve high standards in your operation by following responsible reef practices, becoming certified and taking up training opportunities.
- There are rewards available for joining our partnership programs.
- There are people you can contact if you have any questions or ideas.
Using 'Onboard'
Please take your time to explore this website.
There are navigation bars at the very top of the page, down the left-hand side and above each page heading. These will help you find what you are looking for. There is also a search box to guide you to specific information.
Please contact the GBRMPA if you have any comments or questions about the website or your tourism operation.
Hon Virginia Chadwick
Chairman
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park
Authority
