Dr Poiner is a highly respected marine scientist with a long history of involvement in Great Barrier Reef science and conservation.

Dr Poiner is the current Chair of the Australian and New Zealand International Ocean Discovery Program Consortium, Chair CSIRO Oceans and Atmosphere Advisory Committee and a member of the board of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.  

His recent roles include, Chair of Australia’s Integrated Marine Observing System; Marine National Facility Steering Committee and the Reef and Rainforest Research Centre. Dr Poiner is also the Patron of the Australian Marine Sciences Association.

Following a successful research career at CSIRO (1985–2004), Dr Poiner served as the CEO of AIMS from 2004 to 2011. He was a member of the International Scientific Steering Committee of the Census of Marine Life from 2002 and its Chair from 2007 to 2013. From 2012 to 2016, he was Chair of the Gladstone Healthy Harbour Partnership Science Panel.

In 2008, Dr Poiner was appointed a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering in recognition of his leadership of research and development-based enterprises for the benefit of marine science, the conservation of some of the most iconic marine life and marine habitats on Earth including the Great Barrier Reef, and the development of the marine industry.

In 2013, JCU awarded Dr Poiner an Honorary Doctor of Science in recognition of his outstanding service and distinguished public contribution to the northern Queensland community and exceptional service rendered to the University, comprising of academic excellence and the exercise of outstanding leadership.

Dr Poiner holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) 1A Zoology and a PhD in Zoology from the University of Queensland.

On 25th May 2023 Dr. Poiner was re-appointed as Chairperson for five years. Dr Poiner replaced the previous Chairperson, Dr Russell Reichelt, who retired in 2018 after 11 years with the Authority.

Mr Thomas was reappointed as Chief Executive Officer of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority in December 2023 for a term of five years, following his initial five-year appointment in 2019. Mr Thomas has over 20 years’ experience in the public and private sector in Australia and overseas. He has helped shape and lead environmental policy and programs for the Great Barrier Reef and in terrestrial natural resource management.

Mr Thomas has worked in a number of senior public sector roles and across the environment, agriculture and finance portfolios, as well as in federal Ministerial offices. He has a strong track record of public engagement on matters affecting Australia’s World Heritage sites, and through major environmental programs such as the Biodiversity Fund and Caring for our Country.

Mr Thomas’ policy experience in the marine environment extends across the Great Barrier Reef and its catchments, migratory and endangered species, whaling matters, marine parks and Antarctica. He is committed to enhancing Australia’s natural environment and has been a strong advocate for incorporating both contemporary science and Indigenous traditional knowledge into environmental management throughout his career.

Mr Thomas lives in Townsville and holds a Master of Business Administration, Master of International Affairs, Bachelor of Science, and Bachelor of Arts (Honours).

Professor Emma Johnston AO FTSE FRSN is Dean of Science and Professor of Marine Ecology and Ecotoxicology at UNSW Sydney.  Professor Johnston studies the impacts of human activities in marine ecosystems and how we can build ecological resilience. Her research is conducted in diverse field environments; from Antarctica, to the Great Barrier Reef, and temperate Australian estuaries.

A highly awarded scientist, educator and communicator, Professor Johnston has published more than 160 peer-reviewed articles and supervised 25 successful PhD graduates. She is an elected fellow of the Australian Technological Society (ATSE) and her awards include the Australian Academy of Science’s inaugural Nancy Millis Medal and the Royal Society of New South Wales Clark Medal and the Eureka prize for Science Communication.

In 2018 she was made an Officer of the Order of Australia (OA) for “distinguished service to higher education, particularly to marine ecology and ecotoxicology, as an academic, researcher and administrator, and to scientific institutes”.

Professor Johnston is a national advocate for the Science and Technology sector and is a Director on the Board of the Antarctic Science Foundation and is immediate past-President of Science & Technology Australia.  

She consults with industry through the development and implementation of new biomonitoring and ecological engineering techniques and frequently contributes expert opinion to state, federal & international government agencies. Professor Johnston is also a highly sought-after science communicator and television presenter for the ongoing BBC/Foxtel series, Coast Australia and ABC Catalyst.

She was reappointed as a member of the Authority Board on 27 May 2021 for a five-year term concluding on 26 May 2026.

Ms Robbie Sefton AM brings a wealth of experience in stakeholder engagement, natural resource management, and strategic communications.

She is currently the Managing Director of Sefton & Associates Pty Ltd, a rural strategic communications company. She is also a partner in the Nangandie Pastoral Company farming enterprise producing wool, meat and grains.

She has extensive experience across a number of agricultural sectors and direct experience of the links between agriculture and natural resource management.

She is a member of numerous boards and advisory groups for governments, business and not-for-profits.

This includes Chair of the Panel for the Independent Assessment of Social and Economic Conditions in the Murray-Darling Basin, Deputy Chair of the National Australia Day Council and is a board member of the Cooperative Research Centre for High Performance Soils.

Ms Robbie Sefton has lived, worked and traveled all over regional, rural and remote Australia as rural leader and advocate.

She was appointed as a member of the Authority on 28 May 2020 for a five-year term concluding on 27 May 2025.

A passionate advocate for marine, environmental and wildlife conservation, Elissa is Chief Executive Officer of Ecotourism Australia, supporting more than 1800 Australian certified tourism operators who are committed to the four pillars of sustainability: protecting our natural environment, promoting our culture and heritage, creating socio-economic benefits for community, and implementing sustainable business practices. Building on the globally recognised ECO Certification for nature-based tourism operators, in late 2022 Ecotourism Australia launched the Sustainable Tourism Certification to support all visitor economy businesses meet global best practice standards.

Elissa is a non-executive Director of Reef Check Australia, an innovative citizen-science environmental charity dedicated to empowering people to take positive action for conserving reef and marine environments across Australia and was previously a Corporate Executive Board Member of Women in Aviation International (Australia).

She is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) and holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Southern Cross University, a Master of Business (Communication) and Bachelor of Business (Public Relations) from the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), and a Professional Certificate in Sustainable Tourism from the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). She is a judge in the international Green Destinations Top 100 Stories awards and has been a member of the Australian Tourism Awards Judging Panel and was a former Chair of the Queensland Tourism Awards Judging Panel.

Elissa has vast executive experience within the tourism, aviation, government, and peak body sectors including with Queensland Airports Limited, Airservices Australia, Virgin Australia, the Real Estate Institute of Queensland, and Surf Life Saving where she was awarded an International Citation of Merit by the International Lifesaving Federation for “contributing to the furtherance of lifesaving in a manner of enduring, global importance”.

She has a strong passion for and commitment to the tourism industry and has worked extensively in this sector during her career. She has a deep affection for authentic, awe-inspiring, nature-based and cultural experience-based travel.

Ms Keenan was appointed as a part-time member of the Marine Park Authority Board for five years from 7 February 2024.

 

Overview

The Board of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Reef Authority) held its 286th meeting virtually on 21 August 2024. 

The meeting provided Board members with an opportunity to approve the draft Take of Protected Species for public consultation and Reef Authority’s Annual Report for 2023-24. The Board discussed and provided advice in progressing a request from the Whitsunday Regional Council to create a new designated anchorage within the Whitsundays Plan of Management area. The Board also received updates on the Reef Advisory Committees and the permission system.

Reef Advisory Committees 

Decision MPA 286 (2024-286-01i on 21/8/2024). The Reef Authority: 

• NOTED an update on the Indigenous Reef Advisory Committee (IRAC) recruitment process has been supplied in a separate paper.
• NOTED the next Tourism Reef Advisory Committee (TRAC) meeting will be held on Tuesday 3 September 2024. 
• NOTED members have been selected for the next three-year term of the Local Marine Advisory Committees (LMAC), which started on 1 July 2024.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information.
   

Marine Park Policy Update

Decision MPA 286 (2024-286-04 on 21/8/2024): The Reef Authority: 

• APPROVED the draft Take of Protected Species Policy for public consultation for a one-month period.
• NOTED the other policy updates.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the decision.

Proposed Shute Harbour Anchorage

Decision MPA 286 (2024-286-05 on 21/8/2024): The Reef Authority: 

• NOTED the request from the Whitsunday Regional Council to create a new designated anchorage within the Whitsundays Plan of Management area. 
• APPROVED the Reef Authority undertake additional work to inform a decision on a new designated anchorage as per the Whitsunday Regional Council’s request. 
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the decision.

Annual Report 2023-24

Decision MPA 286 (2024-286-07 on 21/8/2024): The Reef Authority: 

• APPROVED the draft Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority Annual Report 2023-24, providing any amendments by 2 September, noting that Part 5 (Finances) will be circulated to the Board for information in September.
• NOTED the Chief Executive Officer, as the Accountable Authority, will approve the final Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority Annual Report 2023–24 before submission to the Australian Minister for the Environment and before publication. 
• CONFIRMS there is no objection to the publication of the information.

Permission system trends

Decision MPA 286 (2024-286-07 on 21/8/2024): The Reef Authority: 

• NOTED the permission system achievements for 2023-24 financial year.
• NOTED permission system priorities and challenges for 2024-25 financial year.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Members of the Authority

• Dr Ian Poiner [Chairperson]
• Mr Josh Thomas [Chief Executive Officer]
• Mr Duane Fraser
• Ms Elissa Keenan
• Professor Emma Johnston AO
• Dr Jamie Merrick
• Ms Robbie Sefton AM (Apology for MPA 286)

Overview

The Board of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Reef Authority) held its 285th meeting in Townsville on 19 and 20 June 2024. The meeting provided Board members an opportunity to approve the Great Barrier Reef Outlook Report 2024 and its submission to the Minister for the Environment and Water, The Hon Tanya Plibersek. The Board received an update on the Reef Authority’s engagement with Great Barrier Reef Traditional Owners. Mr Phil Rist, CEO, Girringun Aboriginal Corporation, presented to the Board work undertaken by the Corporation and the ‘Process Unite’ initiative. The Reef Authority’s Corporate Plan 2024-25 was approved by the Board, with the Board noting the Annual Operating Plan and approach to Performance Measures for 2024-25. The Board discussed the Reef Authority’s draft Communication Strategy for 2024-27. The Board also noted applications for the Indigenous Reef Advisory Committee (IRAC) and Local Marine Advisory Committees (LMAC) are currently being reviewed.

Reef Advisory Committees 

Decision MPA 285 (2024-285-01i on 19/6/2024). The Reef Authority: 

• NOTED applications for the Indigenous Reef Advisory Committee (IRAC) are being considered by the Reef Authority before review by the Board sub-committee and approval by the Board. 
• NOTED the first IRAC meeting for the new term will be held before the end of 2024.
• NOTED the review of applications for the Local Marine Advisory Committee (LMAC) are being finalised. 
• NOTED the LMAC summary from the last meeting of the current committee term.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information.

Great Barrier Reef Outlook Report 2024

Decision MPA 285 (2024-285-04 on 19/6/2024): The Reef Authority: 

• APPROVED the Great Barrier Reef Outlook Report 2024 and its subsequent submission to the Minister's office in accordance with s54(1) of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975.
• APPROVED the Chief Executive Officer, as Board delegate, giving final approval of minor layout and editorial changes.
• CONFIRMS there is no objection to the publication of the decision.

Traditional Owner Update

Decision MPA 285 (2024-285-06 on 19/6/2024): The Reef Authority: 

• NOTED the update on the Reef Authority’s programs and activities that involve or engage with Great Barrier Reef Traditional Owners. 
• NOTED how the Reef Authority’s programs and projects are addressing Strategic Risk 4: Unable to adapt to evolving aspirations of Traditional Owners.
• CONFIRMS there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Girringun Aboriginal Corporation – ‘Process Unite’ Initiative 

Decision MPA 285 (2024-285-07 on 20/6/2024): The Reef Authority: 

• NOTED the information contained in the presentation delivered by Girringun Aboriginal Corporation.
• CONFIRMS there is no objection to the publication of the information.

Strategic and Corporate Planning 2024-25

Decision MPA 285 (2024-285-08 on 20/6/2024): The Reef Authority: 

• APPROVED the pre-design, text-based Corporate Plan 2024–25.
• APPROVED the Accountable Authority giving final approval on the Corporate Plan 2024–25 including performance measure results and incorporating any Board feedback. 
• NOTED the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s (Reef Authority) Annual Operating Plan for 2024–25. 
• NOTED the Reef Authority’s approach to Performance Measures for 2024–25.
• CONFIRMS there is no objection to the publication of the information.

Communication Strategy 2024-27

Decision MPA 285 (2024-285-09 on 20/6/2024): The Reef Authority: 

• DISCUSSED the draft communications strategy 2024−27, which builds on the previous three-year strategy to strengthen the Reef Authority’s brand as the ‘authoritative voice of the Reef’. 
• CONFIRMS there is no objection to the publication of the information.

Members of the Authority

• Dr Ian Poiner [Chairperson]
• Mr Josh Thomas [Chief Executive Officer]
• Mr Duane Fraser
• Ms Elissa Keenan 
• Dr Jamie Merrick
• Ms Robbie Sefton
• Professor Emma Johnston AO (Apology for MPA 285)
  
  
   

Overview

The Board of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Reef Authority) held its 284th meeting virtually on 2 May 2024. The meeting provided Board members an opportunity to discuss Reef health conditions, noting the unfolding mass coral bleaching event across the Reef. The Board received a high-level update on survey efforts, results to date and welcomed the release of the Reef Snapshot. The Board provided minor feedback and approved the revised Reef Authority Position Statement on Sustainable Fisheries. The Board noted recruitment for the Indigenous Reef Advisory Committee (IRAC) and Local Marine Advisory Committees (LMAC) is underway. In principle approval was granted by the Board for the preparation of minor and technical amendments to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Regulations 2019 (Cth).
 

Actions Arising

Decision MPA 284 (2024-284-01e on 2/5/2024). The Reef Authority: 

• APPROVED the Sustainable Fisheries Position Statement, as an action arising from MPA283.
• APPROVED revoking of the Reef Authority’s ‘Fishing Position statement’ 2020 as a Section 7(4) policy of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975 (the Act), as it has been superseded.
   

Reef Advisory Committees

Decision MPA 284 (2024-284-01i on 2/5/2024). The Reef Authority: 

• NOTED the recruitment for the Indigenous Reef Advisory Committee (IRAC) and Local Marine Advisory Committees (LMAC) is underway. 
• NOTED the communique for the IRAC virtual meeting held on 20 February 2024.
• NOTED the communique for the Tourism Reef Advisory Committee (TRAC) virtual meeting held on 22 February 2024.
• NOTED the LMAC terms of reference are updated in preparation for the new term 2024-27.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information.
   

Reef health update

Decision MPA 284 (2024-284-03 on 2/5/2024): The Reef Authority: 

• NOTED the current conditions on the Reef, survey effort and results to date.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information.
   

Minor and technical amendments to the Regulations

Decision MPA 284 (2024-284-08 on 2/5/2024): The Reef Authority: 

• APPROVED, in principle, the preparation of minor and technical amendments to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Regulations 2019 (Cth) (the Regulations) in accordance with this paper.
• APPROVED, pursuant to section 47(1) of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975 (Cth) (the Act), the delegation of power to the Chief Executive Officer to recommend to the Minister, under section 7(1)(a)(ii) of the Act, the final amendments prepared consistently with Resolution 1(a).
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the decision.
   

Members of the Authority

• Dr Ian Poiner [Chairperson]
• Mr Josh Thomas [Chief Executive Officer]
• Mr Duane Fraser
• Ms Elissa Keenan
• Professor Emma Johnston AO
• Dr Jamie Merrick
• Ms Robbie Sefton

Overview

The Board of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Reef Authority) held its 283rd meeting in Cairns, Queensland on 5 and 6 March 2024. The meeting provided Board members an opportunity to discuss Reef health noting the unfolding mass coral bleaching event across the Reef. The Board noted the progress in developing a revised Reef Authority Position Statement on Sustainable Fisheries and advised on the Statement strategic statement to be included in 2024-25 Portfolio Budget Statements. The Board welcomed updates from AMSA CEO, Mr Mick Kinley on shipping in the Great Barrier Reef, and AMPTO Chairperson, Mr Tony Baker and CEO, Mr Gareth Phillips on the current state of Reef tourism.
 

Reef Advisory Committees 

• Decision MPA 283 (2023-283-01i on 5 and 6/03/2024): The Reef Authority: 
• APPROVED the recommended recruitment strategy, with a longer time for recruitment, for the next Indigenous Reef Advisory Committee, commencing 1 July 2024.
• DISCUSSED the IRAC Chair role — agreed to advertise for an independent Chair, however if there were no suitable appointees, the Board will consider other options to the current IRAC model. 
• NOTED the Indigenous Reef Advisory Committee Meeting No. 21 was held virtually on 20 February 2024.
• NOTED the Tourism Reef Advisory Committee Meeting No. 21 was held virtually on 22 February 2024.
• NOTED the commencement of the next Local Marine Advisory Committee term on 1 July 2024.
• NOTED the Local Marine Advisory Committee meetings were held in November 2023.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Reef Health Update

• Decision MPA 282 (2023-283-03 on 5/12/2023): The Reef Authority:
• NOTED the current and predicted conditions on the Reef this summer.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information.

Australian Maritime Safety Authority Briefing, Mr Mick Kinley, Chief Executive Officer

• Decision MPA 283 (2023-283-04 on 5/12/2023): The Reef Authority:
• NOTED the information contained in the update on shipping in the Great Barrier Reef provided by Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) Chief Executive Officer, Mr Mick Kinley.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information.

Sustainable Fisheries Position Statement

• Decision MPA 282 (2023-282-09 on 6/03/2024): The Reef Authority:
• NOTED the revised Position Statement on Sustainable Fisheries as a policy under Section 7(4) of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975(the Act).
• APPROVED the revocation of the Reef Authority’s ‘Fishing Position statement’ 2020 as a Section 7(4) policy of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975(the Act), as it has been superseded.
• NOTED the Minister for the Environment and Water will be briefed on Reef Authority concerns with fisheries sustainability and attach the approved Sustainable Fisheries Position Statement.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information.

Portfolio Budget Statement

• Decision MPA 283 (2023-283-11 on 6/03/2024): The Reef Authority:
• ADVISED on the Strategic direction statement for inclusion in the 2024-25 Portfolio Budget Statements.
• NOTED that the Chief Executive Officer, as the Accountable Authority under the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013, will approve the 2024-25 Portfolio Budget Statements.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information.

Association of Marine Park Tourism Operators (AMPTO) Briefing, Mr Tony Baker, Chairman AMPTO and Mr Gareth Phillips, CEO AMPTO

• Decision MPA 283 (2023-283-12 on 6/03/2024): The Reef Authority:
• NOTED the information contained in the update on Reef tourism in the Great Barrier Reef provided by Association of Marine Park Tourism (AMPTO) Chairman, Mr Tony Baker, and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Gareth Phillips.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information.

Members of the Authority

• Dr Ian Poiner [Chairperson]
• Mr Josh Thomas [Chief Executive Officer]
• Mr Duane Fraser
• Ms Elissa Keenan
• Professor Emma Johnston AO
• Dr Jamie Merrick
• Ms Robbie Sefton

Overview

The Board of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Reef Authority) held its 282nd meeting in Townsville, Queensland on 5 and 6 December 2023. The meeting provided Board members an opportunity to discuss the Reef Authority’s Integrated Communications Plan for 2023-24, note the extent of the Eye on the Reef Program and its value to the Reef Authority. The Board received an update on the Reef Authority’s approach to summer Reef health and approved the proposed bleaching event categorisation system. The Board received an update on the Reef Restoration and Adaptation Program (RRAP) from representatives of the RRAP.
 

Reef Advisory Committees 

• Decision MPA 282 (2023-282-01i on 5/12/2023): The Reef Authority:
• NOTED a Tourism Reef Advisory Committee (TRAC) out-of-session meeting was held virtually in September, and one person attended an IRAC discussion.
• NOTED the meeting minutes from IRAC No. 20A on 29 September 2023.
• NOTED the draft agenda for IRAC meeting to be held on 20 February 2024.
• NOTED the meeting minutes from TRAC No. 20A.
• NOTED the TRAC End-of-Term Report. 
• NOTED that the Local Marine Advisory Committee (LMAC) Chairs’ meeting was held on 7 October 2023.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information.

Integrated Communications Plan 2023-24

• Decision MPA 282 (2023-282-05 on 5/12/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• DISCUSSED the themed, integrated communication approach to amplify Reef Authority key messages and strengthen the brand as the ‘authoritative voice of the Reef’.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information.

Eye on the Reef Update

• Decision MPA 282 (2023-282-06 on 5/12/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED the extent of the Eye on the Reef program and its value to the Reef Authority as a key information and engagement resource.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information.

Reef Authority approach to summer Reef health – Bleaching event categorisation

• Decision MPA 282 (2023-282-07 on 6/12/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• APPROVED the proposed bleaching event categorisation system.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Reef Restoration and Adaptation Program Update

• Decision MPA 282 (2023-282-08 on 6/12/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED the information contained in the Reef Restoration and Adaptation Program update, presented by Dr Cedric Robillot, Executive Director, and Prof Rob Vertessy, Independent Chair, Reef Restoration and Adaptation Program.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information.

Members of the Authority

•    Dr Ian Poiner [Chairperson]
•    Mr Josh Thomas [Chief Executive Officer]
•    Mr Duane Fraser
•    Professor Emma Johnston AO
•    Dr Jamie Merrick
•    Ms Robbie Sefton
•    Ms Wendy Morris

Overview

The Board of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Reef Authority) held its 281st meeting in Gladstone, Queensland, on 17 and 18 October 2023.

The meeting provided Board members an opportunity to note progress in developing the Climate Change Position Statement and final Reef Blueprint.

The Board received an update on the Reef Authority's approach to summer Reef health and noted the process and priorities in the development of Marine Park policies.

The Board received a 'Sustainable Ocean Plan' presentation from the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).

Reef Advisory Committees 

• Decision MPA 281 (2023-281-01i on 17/10/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• APPROVED the recommended approach to recruiting Indigenous Reef Advisory Committee members and chair for a new three-year term commencing 1 July 2024.
• NOTED the meeting summaries for the Indigenous Reef Advisory Committee meeting and Tourism Reef Advisory Committee meeting held on 9 August 2023.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Climate Change Position Statement

• Decision MPA 281 (2023-281-04 on 17/10/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED: the Board will be provided an updated Climate Change Position Statement for review outside the session.
• NOTED that the Reef Authority position statements outline our position on threats outside our statutory control. 
• NOTED the Reef Authority's position on climate change is supported by actions in the Great Barrier Reef.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Approval of the final Reef Blueprint

• Decision MPA 281 (2023-281-05 on 17/10/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED the Board would receive an updated Great Barrier Reef Blueprint for Climate Resilience and Adaption for review out-of-session.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Developing a National Sustainable Ocean Plan

• Decision MPA 281 (2023-281-08 on 18/10/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED the information contained in the 'Developing a National Sustainable Ocean Plan' presentation, delivered by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
  • a)    CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information.

Reef Authority Approach to Summer Reef Health

• Decision MPA 281 (2023-281-09 on 18/10/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED the Reef Authority's approach to coordinating the understanding and communication of Reef health this summer.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Marine Park Policy Priorities

• Decision MPA 281 (2023-281-09 on 18/10/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED the priority policies in development in 2023-24.
• NOTED the prioritised list of new or existing policies requiring amendment across the Reef Authority.  
• NOTED the consolidated list of existing policies and other resources on the Planning and Policy external web and e-library.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Members of the Authority

• Dr Ian Poiner [Chairperson]
• Mr Josh Thomas [Chief Executive Officer]
• Mr Duane Fraser
• Professor Emma Johnston AO
• Ms Wendy Morris
• Ms Robbie Sefton

Overview

The Board of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Reef Authority) held its 280th meeting virtually on 23 August 2023.

The meeting provided Board members with an opportunity to note progress in developing the Great Barrier Reef Blueprint for Climate Resilience and Adaption approved the Policy on Fish Aggregating Devices and Artificial Reefs and, in principle, approval for associated amendments to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Regulations and approved release of public notice to commence development of a new Plan of Management for the Southern Great Barrier Reef.

Reef Advisory Committees 

• Decision MPA 280 (2023-280-01i on 23/08/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED new members of the Tourism Reef Advisory Committee and Indigenous Reef Advisory Committee were onboarded.
• NOTED the approach taken by the Reef Authority to ensure diversity in the committees.
• NOTED a Tourism Reef Advisory Committee Out-of-Session Meeting on the Reef Knowledge System was held in June.
• NOTED Reef Advisory Committee meetings were held in August 2023.
• AGREED on rotating Board attendance at Reef Advisory Committee meetings in 2024.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Reef Blueprint: Progress Update

• Decision MPA 280 (2023-280-03 on 23/08/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED the progress in developing the Great Barrier Reef Blueprint for Climate Resilience and Adaption.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Policy on Fish Aggregating Devices and Artificial Reefs

• Decision MPA 280 (2023-280-04 on 23/08/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• REVOKED the Interim Policy on Fish Aggregation Devices and Artificial Reefs (MPA-2020-263-07).
• APPROVED the Policy on Fish Aggregating Devices and Artificial Reefs to be published as a policy under section 7(4) of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975 (Cth).
• NOTED that supporting information outlining the lines of evidence that contributed to the policy position will be published separately. 
• APPROVED, in principle, for amendments to be prepared to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Regulations 2019 (Cth) to prohibit fish aggregating devices and artificial reefs in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the decision. 

Policy and Planning Strategic Roadmap, Southern Plan of Management, Part 5 Guideline, Cairns Commercial Guide

• Decision MPA 280 (2023-280-05 on 23/08/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• APPROVED release of the “public notice” to commence the development of a new Plan of Management for the Southern Great Barrier Reef, supporting the investment warning approach. 
• APPROVED delegating approval to the CEO on final edits to the public notice once the Board has considered out-of-session the final wording of the Traditional Owner statement. 
• NOTED publication of the ‘Guideline — Section 5.1, 5.2 and 5.3 of the Zoning Plan’ prepared under s7(4) of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975 (Cth).
• NOTED the publication of the ‘Guide to Tourism Operations and Commercial Activities in the Cairns Planning Area’.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Members of the Authority

• Dr Ian Poiner [Chairperson]
• Mr Josh Thomas [Chief Executive Officer]
• Mr Duane Fraser
• Professor Emma Johnston
• Ms Wendy Morris
• Ms Robbie Sefton

Overview

The Board of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Reef Authority) held its 279th meeting in Brisbane on 20 - 21 June 2023.

The meeting provided Board members with an opportunity to discuss and approve members of the Reef Authority’s Reef Advisory Committees, discuss the revision of the Sustainability Strategy Update, note the Secretary’s Briefing and note the development of the Corporate Plan.

Reef Advisory Committees 

• Decision MPA 279 (2023-279-01i on 20/06/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• APPROVED the appointment of the recommended Chairperson to the Indigenous Reef Advisory Committee.
• APPROVED the appointment of two new members to the Indigenous Reef Advisory Committee. 
• APPROVED seven existing Indigenous Reef Advisory Committee members being extended for another 12 months.
• APPROVED the appointment of the recommended Chairperson to the Tourism Reef Advisory Committee.
• APPROVED the appointment of the recommended members to the Tourism Reef Advisory Committee.
• NOTED possible agenda items for the next committee meetings and a joint meeting scheduled for August 2023.
• NOTES Board approval of the new Tourism Reef Advisory Committee Chairperson and Member will occur out-of-session.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information.

Sustainability Strategy Update

• Decision MPA 279 (2023-279-03 on 20/06/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED that the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Reef Authority) is revising its Sustainability Strategy.
• NOTED the revised Sustainability Strategy will include supplementary elements including:
  • a Renewable Marine Fuels Options Report
  • a Sustainable Procurement Framework
  • a Carbon Credits Options Report 
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 
• Secretary’s Briefing – Mr David Fredericks
• Decision MPA 277 (2023-279-08 on 21/06/2023):
• The Reef Authority: 
  • NOTED the update provided. 
  • CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Corporate Plan

• Decision MPA 279 (2023-279-11 on 21/06/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED the requirements and process to develop the 2023-24 Corporate Plan.
• APPROVED the pre-design, text-based 2023-24 Corporate Plan for the Accountable Authority approval.
• DELEGATED approval of amendments based on Board advice and the final designed version of the 2023-24 Corporate Plan to the Accountable Authority.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information.

Members of the Authority

• Dr Ian Poiner [Chairperson]
• Mr Josh Thomas [Chief Executive Officer]
• Mr Mark Cridland
• Mr Duane Fraser
• Professor Emma Johnston
• Ms Wendy Morris
• Ms Robbie Sefton
   

Overview

The Board of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Reef Authority) held its 278th meeting virtually on 27 April 2023.

The meeting provided Board members an opportunity to discuss and provide advice with respect to the Crown-of-Thorns Starfish (COTS) Program. 

Crown of Thorns Starfish Program Update

• Decision MPA 278 (2023-278-04 on 27/04/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED that the Reef Authority is preparing a Request for Tender to procure Crown-of-Thorns Starfish control vessel services from July 2024 to June 2030.
• NOTED that the Reef Authority is preparing a coral protection outcomes scientific paper based on the results of the COTS control work since 2012. The paper will be co-authored by all COTS Control

Program partners

• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Members of the Authority

• Dr Ian Poiner [Chairperson]
• Mr Josh Thomas [Chief Executive Officer]
• Mr Mark Cridland
• Mr Duane Fraser
• Professor Emma Johnston
• Ms Wendy Morris
• Ms Robbie Sefton
   

Overview

The Board of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Reef Authority) held its 277th meeting in Townsville on 21 - 22 February 2023.

The meeting provided Board members an opportunity to discuss and provide advice with respect to the Reef Authority’s approach to Strategic Planning, Reef Authority Communication Strategy Implementation together with an update on the 2024 Outlook Report Project, Traditional Use of Marine Resource Agreements (TUMRA) and the Local Marine Advisory Committees (LMAC’s). 

Reef Advisory Committees 

• Decision MPA 277 (2023-277-01i on 21/02/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED that Indigenous Reef Advisory Committee and Tourism Reef Advisory Committee out-of-session virtual meetings were held in February 2023. 
• NOTED that the IRAC Chairperson, Malcolm Mann, has confirmed he will stay on as Chairperson until the end of the term in June 2023 but will not reapply.
• NOTED that the unsuccessful applicant for the IRAC committee was notified.
• NOTED that the IRAC sponsoring Director is working with the Secretariat on an approach to seeking new committee members, which will include a Chair mid-year.  Given the most recent broadscale recruitment did not yield suitable candidates, the future approach will be more targeted.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Reef Authority Communication Strategy Implementation

• Decision MPA 277 (2023-277-07 on 22/02/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED that the Reef Authority would release the new Reef Authority program brand in 2023 and amplify the #SeeLoveProtect the Reef campaign as key activities under its corporate communications strategy 2021-24.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Local Marine Advisory Committee (LMAC) Program Update

• Decision MPA 277 (2023-277-08 on 22/02/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED the Local Marine Advisory Committees have provided advice to the Reef Authority on various Marine Park management matters and that the LMAC network provided an excellent conduit to Reef-dependent industries and community.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Reef Health Update

• Decision MPA 277 (2023-277-09 on 22/02/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED the current and predicted conditions on the Reef this summer.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 
• Traditional Use of Marine Resources Agreement 
• Decision MPA 277 (2023-277-10 on 22/02/2023): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED the Traditional Use of Marine Resources Program update.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Members of the Authority

• Dr Ian Poiner [Chairperson]
• Mr Josh Thomas [Chief Executive Officer]
• Mr Mark Cridland
• Mr Duane Fraser
• Professor Emma Johnston
• Ms Wendy Morris
• Ms Robbie Sefton

Overview

The Board of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Reef Authority) held its 276th meeting in Townsville on 12 - 13 December 2023.

The meeting provided Board members with an opportunity to discuss and provide advice with respect of the Reef Authority’s approach to preparations for the 2022-2023 summer, Performance Measures for 2023-2024, Policy and Planning definitions together with the Management Assessment of the Queensland Coral Fisheries.

Reef Advisory Committees 

• Decision MPA 276 (2022-276-01i on 12/12/2022): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED that the IRAC was scheduled to meet with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Reef Authority) before the end of the 2022 calendar year to workshop the Marine Charging Restructure; however, due to the availability of members, this workshop has been postponed to early 2023.
• NOTED that the Secretariat will seek the availability of Reef Advisory Committee members to meet during 2023 whilst ensuring good alignment with the Board’s Calendar.
• NOTED a letter of thanks and exit interview would be undertaken with the outgoing IRAC Chair. 
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Preparations for the 2022-23 Summer

• Decision MPA 276 (2022-276-04 on 12/12/2022): The Reef Authority: 
• DISCUSSED the Reef Authority’s approach to coordinating the understanding and communication of Reef health this summer.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Performance Measures

• Decision MPA 276 (2022-276-06 on 13/12/2022): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED a presentation by KPMG at MPA276 on the performance measures.
• DISCUSSED the draft performance measures.
• NOTED the draft measures would be circulated to the Board for further comment, and the final measures would be reviewed by the Board. 
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Traditional Owner Strategy to Include Principles and Co-Management Overview

• Decision MPA 276 (2022-276-07 on 13/12/2022): The Reef Authority: 
• APPROVED the co-management vision and principles as policy under s 7(4) of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975  and
• NOTED the principles cover only co-management. They are consistent with the continuum towards co-governance.
• NOTED the broader Traditional Owner Activities with the Authority.
• NOTED advancing co-management helps to address Strategic Risk 4.
• NOTED that these principles will be embedded into a co-management policy platform.
• NOTED that these principles will be communicated both internally and externally.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Policy Definitions

• Decision MPA 276 (2022-276-09 on 13/12/2022): The Reef Authority: 
• APPROVED that the policy and plan definitions regarding Marine Park management are:
• i.    To be published as a policy under section 7 (4)(a) of the Great Barrier Reef Park Act 1975 (Cth) (‘Marine Park Act’); and
• ii.    For immediate application.
• REVOKED the part of MPA 2018-251-04 decision, Recommendation 1 (a)) that refers to policy definition.
• APPROVED the process for policy development.
• NOTED that the policy and plan definitions form part of a broader body of work, specifically the development of a policy-making manual (relevant to section 7(4) of the Marine Park Act) and the policy rationalisation project.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Coral Fishery

• Decision MPA 276 (2022-276-11 on 13/12/2022): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED the most recent information on the Queensland Coral Fishery.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 
• Reef Guardian Schools – Future Expansion and 20-Year Celebration Plans
• Decision MPA 276 (2022-276-12 on 13/12/2022): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED that the Reef Authority is celebrating 20 years of the Reef Guardian Schools program in 2023.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Conferral of State Powers on Reef Authority Inspectors (Assistance to Queensland Parks & Wildlife Services)

• Decision MPA 276 (2022-276-13 on 13/12/2022): The Reef Authority: 
• NOTED the rationale for the conferral of certain State powers on Reef Authority employees appointed as inspectors.
• NOTED the request from Queensland Parks and Wildlife Services (QPWS) for assistance pursuant to s7A(1) of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975 (Cth) (the Act).
• APPROVED and signed the proposed delegation of the Board’s powers and functions to Reef Authority employees to provide the requested assistance to QPWS.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Members of the Authority

• Dr Ian Poiner [Chairperson]
• Mr Josh Thomas [Chief Executive Officer]
• Professor Emma Johnston AO
• Ms Wendy Morris
• Mr Duane Fraser
• Ms Robbie Sefton
• Mr Mark Cridland

Overview

The Board of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Reef Authority) held its 275th meeting virtually on 19 October 2022.

The meeting provided Board members with an opportunity to discuss and provide advice in respect of the performance measures of the 2023-2024 Corporate Plan, Great Barrier Reef Climate Resilience and Adaptation Strategy (updated Blueprint), Environmental Management Charge together with the policy on Fish Aggregating Devices and Articla Reefs. 

Reef Advisory Committees 

• Decision MPA 275 (2022-275-01i on 19/10/2022): The Authority: 
• NOTED the communique from the 17th meeting of the Indigenous Reef Advisory Committee (IRAC) (Attachment A) held virtually on 9-10 June 2022.
• NOTED the communique from the 18th meeting of the Indigenous Reef Advisory Committee (IRAC) (Attachment B) held virtually on 6 September 2022.
• NOTED the communique from the 18th meeting of the Tourism Reef Advisory Committee (TRAC) (Attachment C) held virtually on 8 September 2022.
• NOTED that the IRAC will meet with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Reef Authority) before the end of the 2022 calendar year to workshop the Marine Charging Restructure.
• NOTED that the Secretariat will seek the availability of Reef Advisory Committee members to meet during 2023 whilst ensuring good alignment with the Board’s Calendar.
• AGREED a response to the committees from the Board was needed prior to the next Board meeting.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 
• Reef Guadian Councils Climate Change Initiatives Snapshot
• Decision MPA 275 (2022-275-08 on 19/10/2022): The Authority: 
• NOTED the Reef Guardian Council's Climate Change Initiatives Snapshot.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 
• Review of Performance Measures and Corporate Plan 2023-24
• Decision MPA 275 (2022-275-04 on 19/10/2022): The Authority: 
• APPROVED the proposed process and timeline for developing performance measures for 2023-24 (Attachment A).
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Draft Policy on Fish Aggregating Devices and Artificial Reefs

• Decision MPA 275 (2022-275-07 on 19/10/2022): The Authority: 
• APPROVED the release of the draft Fish Aggregating Devices (FAD) and artificial reefs policy for at least three months of public consultation.
• CONFIRMED there is no objection to the publication of the information. 

Members of the Authority

• Dr Ian Poiner [Chairperson]
• Mr Josh Thomas [Chief Executive Officer]
• Professor Emma Johnston AO
• Ms Wendy Morris
• Mr Duane Fraser
• Ms Robbie Sefton
• Mr Mark Cridland