Social Science for the Great Barrier Reef

Social science for the Great Barrier Reef is about understanding and managing people’s relationship with the Reef for the health of both the Reef and the people.

Inshore seagrass health

Pressures affecting inshore Reef seagrass habitats were low in 2022–23, but variable among regions and habitats. There was no significant cyclone activity affecting the inshore Reef.

Reef snapshot

The Reef snapshot: summer 2023-24 provides a concise, easy-to-understand summary of how the Reef has fared over the past summer, what this means for

Restoration of Reef Islands Project

The Restoration of Reef Islands Project collaborates with Traditional Owners to enhance the resilience of our Great Barrier Reef’s islands, which provide crucial ecosystem services.

Reef Beat series

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority's Reef Beat education series encourages teachers and students to explore the amazing Great Barrier Reef, threats to the Reef, ways to protect the health

Coastal development

The Great Barrier Reef catchment is used for agriculture, urban and industrial development, mining, port activities and island development.

Remaining impacts from fishing

These practices help to protect the natural environment, maintain the ecological balance of the Reef and contribute to improving its general health.

New study reveals benefits of crown-of-thorns starfish control on the Great Barrier Reef

New research has revealed that years of targeted crown-of-thorns starfish control on the Great Barrier Reef has protected coral and supported reef health and resilience. 

New research has revealed that years of targeted crown-of-thorns starfish control on the Great Barrier Reef has protected coral and supported reef health and resilience.

Coastal ecosystems

There are 14 coastal ecosystems that are important to the function of the Reef: coral reefs, lagoon floors, islands, open water, seagrass, coastline, estuaries, freshwater wetlands, forested floodp