The Hon Tanya Plibersek MP, Minister for the Environment and Water
Senator Nita Green, Special Envoy for the Great Barrier Reef and Senator for Queensland
The Albanese Labor Government is investing $4.9 million to support three community projects that will help protect the Great Barrier Reef.
Three organisations will deliver projects protecting key habitat, ecosystems and species through on ground monitoring, habitat restoration, water quality improvement, education and enhanced stewardship of the Great Barrier Reef.
OzFish Unlimited will receive $1.9 million to work with recreational fishers and the broader community to restore oyster reefs and mangroves in Townsville, Innisfail, Cairns, Mackay and Gladstone. This includes establishing shellfish recycling centres which manufacture products that place used oyster shells back in the water to help attract more shellfish and boost their survival - while also keeping shells out of landfill.
The Great Barrier Reef Foundation will receive $1.6 million for restoration, protection and monitoring activities to improve key coastal habitats on Yunbenun-Magnetic Island.
Reef Catchments will receive $1.4 million to enhance the health and resilience of seagrass within the Great Barrier Reef. This includes restoring seagrass meadows at Cape Gloucester, improving seagrass nursery capacity, and working with local communities and Traditional Owners to better understand how to protect and restore seagrass.
These projects are part of round one of our $12.5 million Protecting the Great Barrier Reef - Community Stewardship Program, which is committed to long-lasting protection and care for the Reef. Funding for round 2 of the program will become available from 2026-27.
