Working together

The Reef 2050 Catchment Water Quality Strategy is a joint commitment of the Australian and Queensland governments to improve the quality of water flowing into the Great Barrier Reef. Together, the governments have invested almost $1.8 billion between 2015 and 2030 to protect the Reef. This includes the Queensland Reef Water Quality Program and the Australian Government’s Reef Trust.

A shared responsibility

Protecting the Great Barrier Reef is a shared responsibility. Everyone has a role to play in delivering actions outlined in the Strategy. Working together through strong partnerships is crucial to achieving the Strategy’s vision and outcomes.

Over the past 20 years, significant progress has already been made by landholders and communities across Reef catchments. The progress has been supported by investment in science and on-ground action. The Strategy builds on the strong foundation, by fostering and strengthening partnerships that connect local aspirations with regional priorities. These collaborative efforts will drive transformative projects including:

  • The development and implementation of catchment management plans.
  • Restoring coastal and wetland habitats.
  • Addressing pollutant hotspots.

By working together, we can achieve long-term environmental and economic benefits for the Reef and the communities that depend on it.

Partnerships are key

Partnerships across all sectors at all levels are the key to making progress towards the water quality targets. Communities, landholders and industries are dedicating their time and resources to make the on the ground changes that have a real impact.

Traditional Owners

Traditional Owners are vital as they hold deep cultural, spiritual, and custodial connections to the Reef and its catchments, along with valuable ecological knowledge and skills. Strengthening these partnerships involves resourcing and supporting Traditional Owner-led programs, integrating their knowledge into sustainable land management, amplifying their voices in governance, and empowering them through employment, training, and the development of Healthy Country Plans. This will ensure they can actively lead and influence water quality and conservation efforts.

Natural Resource Management Groups

These groups play a vital role for coordinating and guiding on groundwork to make long-lasting changes.

Scientists and Researchers

Research groups are helping identify areas for improvement, monitor progress to allow us to pivot when needed.

Non-government organisations

Non-government organisations provide much needed community support and being a voice for change or celebration when needed.

Governance and coordination

A governance framework has been established to help ensure a coordinated and cohesive approach to implementing the Strategy. This framework helps allocate resources effectively and ensures all partners are working together towards shared goals.

Government

Regional Natural Resource Management bodies

Industry

Research groups

Conservation and community groups

Charities