The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority's (GBRMPA) Reef Guardian program recognises the good environmental work undertaken by communities and industries to protect the Great Barrier Reef.

The program involves working closely with those who use and rely on the Reef or its catchment for their recreation or business to help build a healthier and more resilient Reef.

The program demonstrates a hands-on, community-based approach can make a real difference to the health and resilience of the Reef.

Reef Guardians are taking on voluntary actions beyond what is required by law and sharing information.  These actions will help to improve the economic sustainability of industries operating in the Great Barrier Reef Region and ensure the environmental sustainability of the Marine Park.

The ongoing work of the Reef Guardian program to protect the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area will be strengthened with renewed funding for two years from the Australian Government.

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority's Reef Guardian stewardship program began with schools in 2003 to encourage the community to take action for a healthier Reef.

The Reef Guardian Schools initiative currently has 293 schools, over 114,900 students and 7280 teachers involved in building the Reef's resilience.

In 2007 the initiative was expanded to include local government councils along the Great Barrier Reef coast through the Reef Guardian Councils program.

The Reef Guardian Fishers and Reef Guardian Farmers and Graziers programs were launched in 2011 to engage with industries connected to the Reef.

 For more information on the program contact the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.