The Australian Government released its 3rd Great Barrier Reef report in 2019, and whilst it acknowledged that since 2014, management initiatives and local actions have demonstrated positive outcomes for less complex and small scale activities, much more needs to be done.

The following is an extract of the Executive Summary:

“The Great Barrier Reef is a vast and spectacular ecosystem and one of the most complex natural systems on Earth. The Great Barrier Reef Region’s natural beauty and natural phenomena endure, but they are showing signs of deterioration in several areas. In 2009, the Reef was considered to be at a crossroads between a positive, well-managed future and a less certain one. In 2014, it was seen as an icon under pressure, with continued efforts needed to address key threats.

Since then, the Region has further deteriorated and, in 2019, Australia is caring for a changed and less resilient Reef. The challenge to restore Reef resilience is big, but not insurmountable. However, it requires mitigation of climate change and effective implementation of the Reef 2050 Long-Term Sustainability Plan (Reef 2050 Plan).

The scientific evidence is clear: initiatives that will halt and reverse the effects of climate change at a global level and effectively improve water quality at a regional scale are the most urgent to improve the Region’s long-term outlook. More than ever before, uses of the Region must be sustainable and effectively managed. To protect and restore habitats, species and heritage values, management agencies must complement proven techniques with innovative approaches that are targeted, science-based and risk-managed.”

Their full report can be found here.

Source : Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority 2019, Great Barrier Reef Outlook Report 2019: In Brief, GBRMPA, Townsville