- Queensland Government commits $330.5 million to improve Great Barrier Reef water quality
- Funding includes implementation of the Reef 2050 Wetlands Strategy
- Queensland now needs a clear investment plan showing how the funding will help achieve the new 2032 water quality targets
The Australian Marine Conservation Society (AMCS) has welcomed the Queensland Government’s $330.5 million investment in Great Barrier Reef water quality.
The funding package, announced as part of the Queensland Budget on Tuesday, represents a significant investment in Reef water quality and follows the release of updated water quality targets and the new Reef 2050 Catchment Water Quality Strategy.
AMCS Great Barrier Reef Campaign Manager Dr Lissa Schindler said: “This funding commitment is a significant step forward and demonstrates recognition of the important role clean water plays in the Reef’s long-term health.
“Water pollution continues to place significant pressure on the Great Barrier Reef, damaging corals and seagrasses, and reducing their ability to cope with climate change, marine heatwaves, floods and cyclones.
“We welcome the inclusion of funding to implement the Reef 2050 Wetlands Strategy and recognition of the important role wetlands can play in filtering sediment and nutrients before they reach Reef waterways.
“Wetlands are nature’s filters and a powerful natural solution for reducing nitrogen and sediment pollution entering the Reef. It is encouraging to see growing recognition of the role they can play alongside other measures to reduce pollution entering the Reef.
“The challenge now is turning this investment into measurable reductions in pollution and real improvements in Reef health.
“We need a clear investment plan that shows where funding will be invested, what outcomes are expected, and how progress will be measured and reported.
“This is the third time Queensland has pushed back its water quality targets. This funding is an important step, but transparency, accountability and targeted delivery will be critical if the new targets are to be met.
“The Great Barrier Reef supports more than 77,000 jobs and contributes around $9 billion annually to the Australian economy. Tackling water pollution is critical to maintaining the health of the Reef and the communities and industries that depend upon it.”
