Three organizations will deliver projects protecting key habitats, 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 centers that 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 landfills.
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.
