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$91.8 million for continued protection of Great Barrier Reef
The Australian Government has announced an additional $91.8 million in the May Federal Budget to strengthen protection and management of the iconic Great Barrier Reef.
The funding will strengthen Australia’s world-leading Marine Park management through expanded on-water operations, enhanced monitoring and scientific capability, and continued efforts to build Reef resilience in the face of a changing climate.
Of the new funding announced, the Reef Authority will receive $34.9 million over the next two years to support key Reef protection programs, including: $18.9 million for the Crown-of-thorns Starfish (COTS) Control Program, $6.6 million for the Eye on the Reef Program, $5 million for the Tourism Reef Protection Initiative, and $3.5 million for the Reef Joint Field Management Program.
Sea Country Connections
Rangers bring Reef education to life
Reef education resources are helping Traditional Use of Marine Resources Agreements (TUMRA) groups inspire young people to care for Sea Country and the Great Barrier Reef. At the recent Coen Muster in remote Cape York, Lama Lama Rangers used new interactive turtle resources from the Reef Authority to engage families in learning about turtles, marine ecosystems and Sea Country.
Committees collaborate for Reef management
The Reef Authority recently hosted meetings with the Indigenous Reef Advisory Committee (IRAC) and Tourism Reef Advisory Committee (TRAC) in Townsville, bringing together committee members and the Reef Authority Board to discuss the management of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The IRAC also welcomed two new members, Ms Leah Gardiner, and Mr Wahtjah Johnson to the committee.
All in for connection and understanding
Following National Reconciliation Week 2026 (27 May – 3 June), the Reef Authority reflects on a week grounded in connection, learning and shared understanding. The theme, All In, is a call for all Australians to commit wholeheartedly to reconciliation every single day. Across the organisation, this commitment continues to grow — shaped by the voices, knowledge and leadership of Traditional Owners.
Relocated turtle eggs provide hope
More than 9,100 green turtle hatchlings have emerged after eggs were relocated from Raine Island to the Sir Charles Hardy Islands as part of the Raine Island Recovery Project. The innovative relocation and shading trial aims to help produce more male hatchlings in response to rising sand temperatures linked to climate change. Watch the video to see how we are working together to support the future of northern Great Barrier Reef green turtles.
Operators trained to keep eyes on the Reef
More than 40 tourism staff were trained to help monitor the Great Barrier Reef during the latest Eye on the Reef training events held in May in Airlie Beach and Cairns. Tourism operators from across the Marine Park were trained to conduct surveys that provide vital real-time data on Reef health through the Reef Authority’s Eye on the Reef network.
Watch for whales
As we move into the cooler months, the 'humpback highway' reopens as the annual whale migration passes through the Great Barrier Reef. From May until September, whales migrate from Antarctica to the Marine Park to court, mate, give birth or rear their calves. During this time, it's critical that visitors to the Marine Park look out for whales, keep a safe distance, and adhere to the whale protection rules.
Management plan progresses
Following months of desktop analysis and stakeholder engagement, potential future management strategy concepts have been developed for the Southern Planning Area. The concepts draw on recognised conservation standards, western science and cultural knowledge. Next steps include further targeted engagement with government, industry and other stakeholders. A second round of public consultation is expected in 2029 before the final Southern Plan of Management is completed.
Meet Sarah
Few people can say they knew exactly what they wanted to do for a career at age 13. For Reef Manager Sarah Salmon, the decision was easy: she wanted to become a marine biologist. “I was a very nature-focused kid. Marine science was something that met all of my values and I could love work if I had to go to work every day,” Sarah said. Almost three decades into her career at the Reef Authority, she said she wouldn't change a thing.
Caretakers wanted for remote paradise
We're seeking new caretakers for Low Isles, off Port Douglas. The remote, hands-on role involves maintaining island buildings, supporting visitors and protecting important environmental and heritage values. Previous caretaking or property maintenance experience, along with proven handyperson or trade skills are essential. Tender submissions close 6 July 2026.
#LovetheReef highlights
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority acknowledges the continuing Sea Country management and custodianship of the Great Barrier Reef by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Traditional Owners whose rich cultures, heritage values, enduring connections and shared efforts protect the Reef for future generations.
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