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The Great Barrier Reef makes up 10 per cent of the world's coral reef ecosystems, and is one of most complex systems on Earth. Discover key facts about the Reef.

As Australia’s lead management agency for the Great Barrier Reef, we monitor Reef conditions throughout the year and from May to November each year, issue regular Reef health updates.

The Great Barrier Reef is home to a stunning array of animals, from microscopic plankton to whales weighing more than 100 tonnes.

There are approximately 70 Traditional Owner groups whose Sea Country includes the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park with connections dating back 60,000 years.

Like all reefs around the world, the Great Barrier Reef is under pressure, particularly from climate change, coastal development, land-based run-off and illegal fishing.

The Great Barrier Reef was World Heritage listed in 1981, recognising it as one of the most remarkable places on Earth. It extends from Cape York to Bundaberg.

The Great Barrier Reef is internationally recognised for its outstanding biodiversity. The World Heritage status of the Reef recognises its great diversity of species and habitats. 

There are 14 coastal ecosystems that are important to the function of the Great Barrier Reef. Some remain in their natural state while others have changed over time due to land use.

Master Reef Guides are world-leading interpreters sharing the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. There are currently 82 Master Reef Guides located across the Reef.

The Reef Authority and its national education centre for the Great Barrier Reef, Reef HQ Aquarium, offer an extensive range of educational resources and programs.

A package of educational resources to assist teachers, tourism operators and reef guides to deliver experiential learning excursions for students visiting the Reef.

The Reef Education team delivers learning experiences, aligned to the Australian curriculum which allow participants to interact with experienced marine educators.

A range of valuable resources about the Great Barrier Reef and the Reef’s health and management that are suitable for school students to marine managers.

The Reef Beat education series explores the amazing Great Barrier Reef, threats to the Reef, and ways to protect the health and resilience of the Reef.

The heritage of the Great Barrier Reef, including its places, values and experiences dates back tens of thousands of years, and shapes this precious ecosystem.

With the help of our Chief Scientist, we’ve put together some information on coral bleaching to separate fact from fiction regarding Reef health.

The Great Barrier Reef hosts a rich and diverse maritime cultural heritage. Nearly 800 recorded ship and plane wrecks are resting at the bottom of the Reef.

The Reef Authority manages three Commonwealth Heritage listed sites in the Marine Park: Dent Island Lightstation, Lady Elliot Island Lightstation and Low Isles.