The Environmental Impact Management (EIM) team comprises of three main units:

1. Major Projects

Major projects often involve a high level of assessment of large complex projects that involve a higher level of risk. For example pipeline, pontoons, jetties and dredging. These more complex projects may require Public Environment Reports or Environmental Impact Statements. 

2. Permits

Routine permits generally involve lower risk activities such as research, vessel and shore based operations. The level of assessment is related to the potential risk of the activity. Routine activities (low risk) are generally dealt with using standard or class assessments.

3. Ports and Shipping

Ports

The coastline adjacent to the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area supports 10 of Queensland’s 12 major trading ports. Most large-scale dredging and spoil disposal activities in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area are associated with the operation of ports (such as Townsville, Mackay, Hay Point and Gladstone), who undertake such works to maintain port accessibility. There are however some significant risks to the environment from conducting these activities, consequently these activities are managed through policy, EIA, permits and industry workshops.

Shipping

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority works in partnership with the shipping industry and key stakeholders to ensure shipping activities occur in areas that minimise impact to the environment and other users. The shipping program is responsible for:

• Administering legislative provisions in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act and Regulations dealing with waste discharge and a range of policies relating to ship safety and pollution prevention measures
• Removal of property (wreck removal) and compulsory pilotage
• Zoning provisions relating to designated Shipping Areas and access to zones in emergencies.

Further information

The EIM vision

Staff publications

A selection of staff papers on a range of issues such as dredging, shipping accidents, Environmental Impact Management, monitoring, ESD, Defence, infrastructure as well as several specific projects available for downloading.

Smith, A., Monkivitch, J., Koloi, P., Hassall, J., Dunn, J., Gerhardt, K. and Brugmann, T. (2006) Challenges and successes of Environmental Impact Management in the world's largest Marine Park.

Contact

Phone (07) 4750 0700
Email permits@gbrmpa.gov.au