The Great Barrier Reef makes up about 10 per cent of the world's coral reef ecosystems, and is one of the best known and most complex natural systems on Earth. Reef in Focus Podcast Our new podcast, Reef in Focus, delves into some of the brightest minds managing the Reef. You'll hear from marine biologists, chief scientists and other industry leaders tackling the big topics. Learn more Reef health 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. Learn more Reef facts 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. Learn more Animals The Great Barrier Reef is home to a stunning array of animals, from microscopic plankton to whales weighing more than 100 tonnes. Learn more Traditional Owners There are approximately 70 Traditional Owner groups whose Sea Country includes the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park with connections dating back 60,000 years. Learn more Threats 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. Learn more World Heritage Area 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. Learn more Biodiversity 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. Learn more Coastal ecosystems 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. Learn more Master Reef Guides 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. Learn more Reef education 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. learn more Be a marine biologist for a day A package of educational resources to assist teachers, tourism operators and reef guides to deliver experiential learning excursions for students visiting the Reef. Learn more Virtual learning experiences The Reef Education team delivers learning experiences, aligned to the Australian curriculum which allow participants to interact with experienced marine educators. Learn more Resources and publications 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. Learn more Reef Beat series 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. Learn more Heritage 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. Learn more Maritime heritage – diving into history 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. Learn more Commonwealth Heritage places The Reef Authority manages three Commonwealth Heritage listed sites in the Marine Park: Dent Island Lightstation, Lady Elliot Island Lightstation and Low Isles. Learn more