Governance

The Reef 2050 Catchment Water Quality Strategy is supported by a robust governance framework designed to ensure effective management of the protection of the Great Barrier Reef. This framework brings together key advisory and decision-making bodies, government agencies and stakeholders to guide the implementation of actions that improve water quality and protect the Reef.

Key governance bodies

Governance is guided by the following groups:

• Reef 2050 Advisory Committee provides stakeholder advice on implementation of the Reef 2050 Long-Term Sustainability Plan and the Reef 2050 Catchment Water Quality Strategy .
• Reef 2050 Plan Independent Expert Panel provides independent scientific expert advice on implementation of the Reef 2050 Long-Term Sustainability Plan and advice on expenditure under the Australian Government’s Reef Trust.
• Reef Water Quality Independent Science Panel forms a working group of the Reef 2050 Plan Independent Expert Panel and provides independent science-based and technical advice on Reef water quality science needs including water quality monitoring and reporting programs.
• Reef 2050 Executive Steering Committee provides implementation direction and comprises senior officers of the principal Australian and Queensland governments involved in the Reef 2050 program, including the Reef 2050 Catchment Water Quality Strategy.

The Strategy emphasises shared decision-making, fostering partnerships with communities, landholders, Traditional Owners, researchers, industry stakeholder to collectively protect the Reef and its catchments.

Collaboration between governments

The Australian and Queensland governments work together to protect the Outstanding Universal Value of the Great Barrier Reef through the joint Reef 2050 Catchment Water Quality Strategy. This includes:

• A joint commitment to net zero emissions by 2050.
• Shared responsibilities for a Reef Joint Field Management program, fisheries management and biosecurity under legislative frameworks to ensure the Reef’s long-term sustainability.

Governance structure

The governance framework is built on the Great Barrier Reef Intergovernmental Agreement between the Australian and Queensland governments. The diagram below outlines the key governance bodies.