National Education Centre

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority's Great Barrier Reef Aquarium (formerly Reef HQ Aquarium) has stood as the National Education Centre for the Great Barrier Reef since its opening in 1987.

Not only showcasing the Reef Authority's work, research and educational programs, the Great Barrier Reef Aquarium provided incredible economic value to the Townsville community through employment, education and tourism.

Redevelopment

• After 35 years of operation, the Great Barrier Reef Aquarium closed its doors in 2021, as the Australian Government $40.1 million to address much-needed upgrades to the Aquarium's facilities and exhibits: 
• At the same time, a 20-year Master Plan was developed for the Aquarium, setting the vision to transform the facility into a global destination of excellence in tropical reef education and an educational and cultural landmark for visitors to north Queensland.
• With this vision, the Australian Government, through the Townsville City Deal, provided an additional $40 million to implement the Master PlanThis funding intends to establish a globally significant Reef Education Hub, which includes career pathway and traineeship programs, hands-on experiential learning areas, advanced coral propagation facilities, increased sustainability measures, and enhanced technology to support learning throughout the new exhibits.
• Through the Great Barrier Reef HQ Aquarium, visitors can engage with the Reef, better understand the management in place to protect and conserve it, gain an insight into the Traditional Custodians of the Marine Park and learn about actions all individuals can take to help the Reef.