Having the best available information for decision making is essential to high quality, scientifically based management of the Marine Park. The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) has a strategic and coordinated approach to information acquisition, management, analysis, interpretation, dissemination and application.

The GBRMPA is a Registered Research Agency under the Australian Industry Research and Development Board and can conduct and manage research. However, as the GBRMPA is a management agency, the majority of research is carried out by other research institutions. 

Purpose of research

The GBRMPA uses scientific information in many ways, including:

• Measuring impacts to the Reef (including cumulative impacts)
• Identifying emerging risks to the Reef
• Defining objectives (including targets)
• Setting triggers for management intervention
• Developing policy and management strategies and assessing performance
• Providing expert advice
• Making decisions (for example permits and environmental impact assessments)
• Adaptive management
• Raising awareness (communication and education)
• State of the environment reporting (regional, state, national)
• Developing community partnerships based on shared understanding
• Preparation of the Outlook Report.
  

Related Links

• Other information links
  
• Research consultancy opportunities