The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s (GBRMPA) Reef Guardian program recognises the good environmental work undertaken by communities and industries to protect the Great Barrier Reef.
The program involves working closely with those who use and rely on the reef and its catchment for recreation or business, to help build a healthier and more resilient reef.
The Great Barrier Reef catchment area lies adjacent to the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area and comprises approximately 25% of the land area of Queensland. Forty drainage basins make up the catchment area, which drain directly into the Great Barrier Reef lagoon. This connection from the land to the reef is recognised by Reef Guardian participants and their actions help to reduce their impacts on the catchment.
The program demonstrates that a hands-on, community-based approach can make a real difference to the health and resilience of the reef. Reef Guardians take on voluntary actions beyond what is required by law. These actions help to improve the economic sustainability of industries operating in the Great Barrier Reef Region and ensure the environmental sustainability of the Marine Park.
We are a Reef Guardian Council
The Reef Guardian Council program showcases environmentally sustainable practices undertaken by councils in the Great Barrier Reef catchment.
The program recognises the effective management and protection of the reef requires a coordinated effort from industries, communities and all levels of government.
There are 17 councils between Bundaberg and Cooktown in the Reef Guardian Councils program undertaking a range of projects. This covers a 300,000km2 area and a population of almost 900,000 people.
These councils are working together to protect and conserve the Marine Park through activities that improve the health and resilience of the reef.
See our Reef Guardian Council Action Plan.