The 2015 State Party Report on the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area that was released yesterday highlights improvements in the management, protection and health of the iconic Great Barrier Reef.
According to the report, the iconic reef remains the best managed marine ecosystem in the world. The report has been submitted for consideration by the World Heritage Committee.
“ We know the reef is facing challenges but we are making significant progress. There is strong evidence that our efforts are working ,” said Federal Member for Flinders and Minister for the Environment, Greg Hunt in a press release. “ The report demonstrates that we have heard the concerns of the committee and we have comprehensively addressed every one of them. We have also listened to the concerns of the community.”
“ The Australian Government continues to make strong decisions in managing this majestic estate and, along with Queensland, is investing $2 billion for its protection over the next decade ,” added Hunt. “ Our Reef 2050 Long-Term Sustainability Plan is the most complex and comprehensive analysis of environmental management arrangements ever undertaken in Australia. It has been developed in partnership with stakeholders including environmental representatives, industry tourism and fishing. ”
Since the release of the 2014 State Party Report, both federal and state governments have:
In the past 12 months governments have also:
“ The 2015 State Party Report on the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area demonstrates we have a clear plan and a strong commitment to ensure the reef is healthy and resilient – and we are making strong progress ,” said Hunt.