The Great Barrier Reef Intergovernmental Agreement 2015, signed by the Prime Minister and Queensland Premier, provides a framework for the Australian and Queensland governments to work together to protect the Great Barrier Reef.

The 2015 Agreement reflects the shared vision for the future outlined in the Reef 2050 Plan and renews the Australian and Queensland government's commitment to protecting the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, including its Outstanding Universal Value.

The Ministerial Council met 32 times under the 1979 Emerald Agreement. The Ministerial Council held its first meeting under the new Intergovernmental Agreement on 3 July 2009. The Ministerial Forum held its first meeting on 12 August 2011. Meeting outcomes are reported in the Great Barrier Reef Ministerial Council Communiqué.