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National Education Centre

The Great Barrier Reef Aquarium (formerly Reef HQ Aquarium) is Australia’s National Education Centre for the Great Barrier Reef. 

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority is committed to redeveloping Aquarium and continue to offer people of all ages and abilities the opportunity to access the Reef on land with the world’s largest living tropical reef aquarium. Learn more www.greatbarrierreefaquairum.au

Redevelopment

The Great Barrier Reef Aquarium is on track to open in 2029. 

Redeveloping the Aquarium, first opened in 1987, will bring numerous benefits to Townsville North Queensland. The iconic facility will be a place maker in the heart of our CBD, serving as an enduring symbol of Townville’s rich history and international reputation for Reef education and source of great pride for the community. 

Visitors can look forward to world-class living exhibitions and immersive, interactive experiences that will educate and inspire action to protect the Reef.

The project is being designed with operational efficiency and sustainability in mind, ensuring a contemporary facility and strong return on investment for the Australian public.

Additionally, the project will enhance employment prospects, marine science education opportunities and various career pathways for the people of Townville and North Queensland.   

Procurement 

As the Reef Authority is a Commonwealth agency, it is subject to the Commonwealth Procurement Rules (CPRs) to conduct its procurement activities. The CPRs set out particular requirements to ensure that its procurement processes are appropriately competitive so the Reef Authority can achieve the best value for money outcome for the Commonwealth which includes ensuring all suppliers receive the same information. If you would like more information about the Great Barrier Reef Aquarium Redevelopment Project, please visit www.greatbarrierreefaquarium.au.

The Reef Authority uses AusTender to publish any relevant approaches to market inviting potential suppliers to participate in its procurements. For all enquiries please email procurement@gbrmpa.gov.au

Reef HQ Aquarium Concepts - Commonwealth of Australia (Reef Authority)
Great Barrier Reef Aquarium
Reef HQ Aquarium
Reef HQ Aquarium - Commonwealth of Australia (Reef Authority)
Great Barrier Reef Aquarium
Created
Updated 16 Sep 2025
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