Activities and use

The Great Barrier Reef has long been an important resource and a valued place for people to visit, share and enjoy.

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.

Land-based run-off

Land-based run-off remains the greatest contributor to poor water quality in the inshore areas of the Great Barrier Reef and is a major contributor to the current poor state of many inshore marine

Great Barrier Reef Outlook Report 2024: an ecosystem under pressure

A report released today by the Reef Authority has concluded the overall outlook for the Great Barrier Reef remains one of future deterioration due largely to climate change.

A report released today by the Reef Authority has concluded the overall outlook for the Great Barrier Reef remains one of future deterioration due largely to climate change.

Threats to the Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is a natural treasure and one of the world's best managed marine areas, but like all tropical coral reefs around the world it’s facing serious threats.

Play is the way for eco-entrepreneurs

Entries are now open for the Reef Guardian Schools Global Eco-Challenge, where students are encouraged to use emerging technologies to explore the Great Barrier Reef and its connected ecosystems.

Entries are now open for the Reef Guardian Schools Global Eco-Challenge, where students are encouraged to use emerging technologies to explore the Great Barrier Reef and its connected ecosystems.

How to apply for a permit

Any proposed activity in the Marine Parks that requires a permission is subject to an assessment and a decision on whether the permission is granted.

Outlook Report 2024

Every five years, we publish an Outlook Report that examines the Great Barrier Reef’s health, pressures, and likely future.

Look out for those below as heavy traffic hits the ‘humpback highway’

It’s the time of year for extravagant tail-slapping displays and breathtaking breaches, as thousands of nature’s majestic giants hit the ‘humpback highway’ on their annual journey along Australia’s East coast.

It’s the time of year for extravagant tail-slapping displays and breathtaking breaches, as thousands of nature’s majestic giants hit the ‘humpback highway’ on their annual journey along Australia’s