Today, the Australian Government welcomed a draft decision from UNESCO World Heritage Centre that recognises Australia’s ongoing commitment to the protection and management of the Great Barrier Reef.
The draft decision acknowledges Australia’s comprehensive efforts to protect and manage the Reef, reinforcing its status as one of the world’s best managed reef ecosystems and World Heritage properties.
It highlights Australia’s ongoing commitment and collaborative efforts towards addressing impacts to the Reef including climate change, water quality, sustainable fisheries and Crown of Thorns Starfish control.
This recognition follows a decade of strong collaboration between the Australian and Queensland Governments, with investment of more than $5.3 billion since 2014 in Reef protection and conservation initiatives.
Australia’s actions that are ensuring the Reef maintains its Outstanding Universal Value, include:
- strengthening the Reef’s resilience to the cumulative impacts of climate change and other threats
- managing the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area in line with world’s best practice
- improving water quality, managing the impact of crown-of-thorns starfish and advancing sustainable fishing practices
- amending our national environmental laws to introduce new land clearing restrictions in the Reef catchment to build on efforts to improve water quality
- delivering one of the world’s largest programs to develop and deploy large-scale climate adaptation projects on the Reef.
The Australian Government remains committed to working alongside Traditional Owners, local communities, natural resource management groups and scientists to ensure the Reef remains healthy, resilient and protected.
While challenges like climate change remain significant, today’s recognition demonstrates that Australia’s long-term investments, strong management framework and collaborative approach are delivering tangible results.
Minister for the Environment and Water, Murray Watt said Australia will continue to support the World Heritage system, and engage constructively with UNESCO, the World Heritage Advisory Bodies and the Committee on the long-term health of the Reef.
“The Australian Government understands this responsibility. And we also know the world is watching us,” Minister Watt said.
“Australia is doing more than ever to better protect and manage the Outstanding Universal Value of the Reef. Our efforts are making a difference – but we know there is more work to do.
“That’s why we announced a further $91.8 million in this year’s Federal Budget to bolster our world-leading management of the Great Barrier Reef.
“We will continue to build on our actions, leverage strong partnerships, and utilise our world‑leading Reef management to support the Great Barrier Reef’s resilience into the future.
“We are extremely lucky to be home to one of the most beautiful and precious places on earth – and we’re determined to protect it.”
