Outlook Report

The Great Barrier Reef Outlook Report 2009 identifies climate change, continued declining water quality from catchment runoff, loss of coastal habitats from coastal development and remaining impacts from fishing and illegal fishing and poaching as the priority issues reducing the resilience of the Great Barrier Reef. It also highlights gaps in information required for a better understanding of ecosystem resilience.

Water Quality

The Great Barrier Reef continues to be exposed to increased levels of sediments, nutrients and pesticides, which are having significant effects inshore close to developed coasts, such as causing die-backs of mangroves and increasing algae on coral reefs. Substantial resources are being provided to improve water quality to the Great Barrier Reef, but progress is slow and patchy.

See the Outlook Report information sheet on catchment runoff.

See the actions that the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority are involved in to improve water quality.

Coastal Development

Coastal development is increasing the loss of coastal habitats that support the Great Barrier Reef. Human population increases within the Great Barrier Reef catchment are projected to be nearly two per cent per annum. This will place greater pressure on the ecosystem and increase use of the Great Barrier Reef Region. Integrated planning, knowledge and compliance in managing coastal development are areas highlighted in the Outlook Report as requiring improvement.

See the Outlook Report information sheet on coastal development.

See the actions the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority takes to minimise downstream effects of coastal development.

Wetlands

Freshwater and coastal wetlands support a diverse range of life, providing habitat, breeding and nursery areas for birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, insects and many fish species, such as barramundi and mangrove jack. Wetlands also perform a water retention role during heavy rainfall, protecting the Great Barrier Reef from excessive inputs of sediment and nutrients. Over 50 per cent of Australia's wetlands have been significantly effected through degradation or loss since European settlement.More information