There is still time to put in an application for a share of $5.6 million in funding for projects to support the long-term health and future of Australian Marine Parks.
Grants of between $50,000 and $500,000 are available through the fifth round of the Australian Government’s Our Marine Parks Grants program.
Since 2018, the grants have contributed $28.2 million in funding for 91 projects nation-wide, including increasing First Nations peoples’ involvement in managing, protecting and restoring Sea Country, and supporting scientific research on and monitoring of a range of important marine species.
Minister for the Environment and Water, Murray Watt said the grants were designed to support activities that enhance the understanding, protection and sustainability of Australia’s ocean estate.
“There have been some incredibly valuable and interesting projects over the past 8 years,” Minister Watt said.
“We would like to encourage First Nations groups, regional communities and other marine park users and stakeholders to apply for this latest round of grants, to help shape projects that reflect the unique values, challenges and opportunities for them and for Australian Marine Parks.
“First Nations peoples have always cared for Sea Country, and all regional communities see firsthand how these special places contribute to a feeling of belonging and support for local livelihoods.
“Other marine park user groups and stakeholders also have valuable knowledge of our marine parks and can help make a contribution through this grants program to the way they are managed, now and into the future.”
Parks Australia manages 60 Commonwealth marine parks covering 3.8 million km2.
Applications close at 9pm AEDT on Tuesday, 27 October 2026.
