Three Queensland organisations will share almost $5 million in funding from the initial round of a new Great Barrier Reef protection program.
Federal Environment minister Tanya Plibersek said $4.9 million would be provided to three North Queensland community projects.
Minister Plibersek said the projects would protect key habitat, ecosystems and species through on ground monitoring, deliver habitat restoration, water quality improvement, education and enhanced stewardship of the Great Barrier Reef.
She said OzFish Unlimited would 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.”
Minister Plibersek said the Great Barrier Reef Foundation would receive $1.6 million for restoration, protection and monitoring activities to improve key coastal habitats on Yunbenun-Magnetic Island.
She said Reef Catchments would 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.”
Minister Plibersek said the projects were part of round one of the $12.5 million Protecting the Great Barrier Reef – Community Stewardship Program, with funding for round 2 of the program to become available from 2026-27.
Learn more about the Community Stewardship Program.
