Coasts and Oceans

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975: New Frameworks for Protection

In 2006, following a review of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975 , a series of measures was proposed to strengthen legal, governance and policy frameworks relating to management and long-term protection of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Further information on the review can be found in the report titled Review of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975. Public submissions to the review can be found by clicking on this link: Public submissions.

A body of measures was implemented during 2007, principally via the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Amendment Act 2007 which commenced on 1 July 2007 and implemented amendments to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975 related to governance, accountability and transparency in the management of the Great Barrier Reef.

In particular, the amendments provided for:

• A five-yearly, peer-reviewed 'Outlook Report' to be tabled in Parliament and published, documenting the overall condition of the Marine Park, effectiveness of management, and risks and pressures on the ecosystem
• An enhanced process and requirements for engaging stakeholders in the development of zoning plans for the Marine Park
• Zoning plans to be 'locked down' for a minimum of seven years from the date they come into force to provide stability for business, communities and biological systems
• The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (the Authority) to be subject to the financial management framework of the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997 instead of the Commonwealth Authorities and Companies Act 1997
• The Great Barrier Reef Consultative Committee to cease operation

A second amendment Act was introduced into Parliament on 18 June 2008 — the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2008. Amendments to the Act were passed by Parliament on 12 November 2008. The Act will put in place a modern, future-focused regulatory framework for securing the long-term protection and ecologically sustainable management of the Great Barrier Reef.

• Amendments to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975 - An overview fact sheet

In addition, a new intergovernmental agreement for the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area is being developed between the Australian and Queensland governments to enhance coordinated, collaborative approaches between the State and Commonwealth jurisdictions to the long-term conservation and protection of the Great Barrier Reef.