- The Crisafulli Government welcomes UNESCO’s draft decision not to list the Great Barrier Reef as “in danger”, recognising strong progress to protect this global icon.
- The decision follows the Crisafulli Government’s recent announcement of a record $330.5 million investment in the 2026-27 Budget to improve reef health
- The Great Barrier Reef supports around 77,000 jobs and contributes $9 billion annually to the national economy.
- The Crisafulli Government is restoring Queensland’s environmental leadership after years of decline under the former State Labor Government.
The Crisafulli Government has welcomed UNESCO’s draft decision not to recommend listing the Great Barrier Reef as a World Heritage site “in danger”, recognising the progress being made to protect one of the world’s most important natural assets.
The decision acknowledges the sustained efforts of the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments to safeguard the Reef’s Outstanding Universal Value.
It confirms both governments are delivering on all of UNESCO’s agreed recommendations, including improved water quality, restored wetlands, and stronger management of runoff and fisheries.
The Great Barrier Reef is one of Queensland’s greatest assets, supporting communities, businesses and around 77,000 jobs across Queensland.
While the draft decision is a positive recognition of progress, the Crisafulli Government remains focused on the work still required to protect the Reef for future generations.
That work is being supported through a record $330.5 million investment in the 2026–27 Budget, which will improve water quality, support practical action across Reef catchments and deliver the Reef 2050 Catchment Water Quality Strategy.
The investment reflects the importance of the Reef to Queensland’s environment, economy and regional communities, with thousands of families relying on a healthy Reef for their livelihoods.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the draft decision recognised the efforts of Queenslanders working to protect the Reef for future generations
“Queenslanders care deeply about the Reef and we welcome the draft decision because it recognises the progress being made to conserve it,” Minister Powell said.
“Our focus remains on practical action and delivering outcomes that protect the Reef and support the regional communities and jobs that depend on it.
“That’s why we’re continuing to invest in practical action that protects the Reef and the communities and businesses that rely on it.”
