Federal funding available for projects to reduce impact of marine debris on Reef

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Federal funding available for projects to reduce impact of marine debris on Reef

July 6, 2023

Environment /

Australian Government funding of $3.5 million is now available to be allocated among activites and projects that aim to tackle marine debris entering the Great Barrier Reef.

Marine debris is one the key threats facing the Reef. Debris, such as plastics, can threaten the biodiversity of the Reef, impact on its tourism appeal and be fatal for its marine life.

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Debris Management and Mitigation program will support debris removal and prevention activities.

This includes community engagement, targeted education and awareness raising, to prevent litter from entering Reef waterways.

By encouraging greater community participation and involvement, including with First Nations peoples, the program will establish networks and key partnerships to support the management and mitigation of debris in the Great Barrier Reef.

It will reduce the threat marine debris poses for coral, turtles, dugongs and seabirds. It will also mitigate the impact marine debris can have on tourism, recreation and fishing activities.

Funding is available from 2023‒24 to 2026‒27 through the first round of the program.

This funding is part of the Australian Government’s $1.2 billion investment to protect and restore the Great Barrier Reef.

Applications close on 11th August 2023. Apply at the business.gov.au website.

14th June 2023 - $7.4 million to support island restoration on Great Barrier Reef

21st March 2023 - Latest IPCC report shows Australia must do more to protect Great Barrier Reef

17th February 2023 - $20.75 million investment to help Queensland farmers protect Great Barrier Reef

29th November 2022 - AMCS and Queensland Government respond to Reef “In Danger” list recommendation

21st October 2022 - Additional $204 million allocated in Federal Budget for protection of Great Barrier Reef

31st August 2022 - Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek urged to consider impact on the Reef and wetlands from coal and gas projects

25th March 2022 - Severe coral bleaching revealed on Great Barrier Reef as UNESCO/IUCN considers whether to recommend ‘in danger’ listing

18th March 2022 - Great Barrier Reef suffers another bleaching event ahead of United Nations assessment visit

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