Registrations are now open for the 2026 Reef Guardian School Eco Challenge, where students are encouraged to use emerging technologies and think like designers to explore innovative solutions to threats to the Great Barrier Reef.

The Reef Guardian School program engages schools in activities that promote the protection and sustainability of the Great Barrier Reef. Each year, the program hosts an Eco Challenge, inviting students in participating schools to explore the conservation of the Great Barrier Reef through their own creativity.

This year, the program has partnered with digital learning technology company Makers Empire to create a series of digital challenges, encouraging students to utilise 3D modelling techniques to explore solutions to environmental issues on the Great Barrier Reef.

Reef Authority Assistant Director of Education Elizabeth Hickman said the collaboration is an exciting opportunity for students to explore design thinking.

“I am always amazed at the creativity the students demonstrate through our Eco Challenges, and this year is an exciting opportunity for students to use new technologies to explore threats to the Reef.

“Students will be able to design, create and act for the Reef in a whole new way with the Makers Empire platform.”

The curriculum-linked Eco Challenge is designed for Australian primary school students in years 3 through to year 6, however, the challenge can be adapted for older learners and international students.

All participating schools will receive a free trial to the Makers Empire platform for the duration of the challenge.  

The challenge is open for registrations now, with program activities to be completed during Term 3. The challenge will close 12 December 2026.

To register for the 2026 Reef Guardian School Eco Challenge click here.