Biodiversity Strategy

The Biodiversity Strategy aims to provide an over-arching framework to guide and coordinate management actions to protect and conserve biodiversity in the Great Barrier Reef Region.  

An independent review as part of the Great Barrier Reef Outlook Report 2009 identified that while there were many programs in place to conserve and manage biodiversity, there was no over-arching framework to guide and coordinate management actions.  The development of a Biodiversity Strategy for the Great Barrier Reef is therefore a priority task for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, and will assist all other users and industries that rely on this magnificent ecosystem.

 Find out more about the Biodiversity Strategy for the Great Barrier Reef [PDF 874KB]

Species Conservation 

The Species Conservation Unit monitors species conservation issues, with a focus on dugongs, marine turtles, whales and dolphins.  They also provide expert advice to reduce risks from human impacts on Protected Species in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

Find out how we look after Protected Species

Heritage

The Great Barrier Reef was designated a World Heritage Area in 1981, recognising its outstanding universal value.

There are numerous heritage values, including historic and Indigenous heritage, which are addressed in the Marine Park's Heritage Strategy.

 Find out how we manage and protect Heritage in the Great Barrier Reef

Indigenous Partnerships 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are the Traditional Owners of the Great Barrier Reef region. Their traditional cultural practices and knowledge of marine resource use is under increasing pressure from the activities of modern day society in both remote and urban areas. The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority works closely with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Traditional Owner groups to develop and maintain Sea Country Partnerships.

 Find out how we work with Traditional Owner groups in the Great Barrier Reef