The Albanese Government is backing the Great Barrier Reef tourism industry with the first of three significant grants under the $10 million Reef Educational Experience Fund (REEF) announced today.
This funding is the first stage of delivering on the commitment that we made at the 2025 election to invest in bringing more tourists to the Great Barrier Reef, supporting jobs and businesses in Tropical North Queensland.
The $3 million grant will enable Tourism Tropical North Queensland to conduct an international education campaign promoting the Reef in key overseas markets.
The campaign will amplify the important message that visiting the Great Barrier Reef is not only a breathtaking experience, but a vital way to help protect it.
Other funding to be delivered under the REEF over the next three years includes:
- $6 million for a "Kids for the Reef" rebate program for schools across Australia to subsidise excursions to the Great Barrier Reef - making it easier for students to experience the Reef first-hand and understand its ecological significance.
- $1 million in support for local Reef tourism operators, covering up to 50 per cent of the cost of necessary upgrades, checks or clearances to accommodate school groups.
The $10m Reef Educational Experience Fund is part of $18.5m in targeted funding by the Albanese government to support tourism in both Far North Queensland and Central Australia.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell
"This program will help protect and promote the Great Barrier Reef as one of Australia's greatest natural assets.
"Seeing the Reef up close is an unforgettable experience for Australians, attracting millions of visitors from around the world each year.
"By educating international visitors on the importance of sustainable tourism we can preserve this natural wonder and the thousands of jobs it supports.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Tourism Nita Green
"The Great Barrier Reef is an important environmental and economic asset for Australia, contributing over $9 billion to the economy annually and supporting 77 thousand jobs.
"While the Reef faces new challenges, it's important that we protect both the delicate ecosystem and the communities who rely on it.
"That's why we're working with industry, like TTNQ, to deliver support for sustainable tourism that will safeguard the Reef for future generations."
Quotes attributable to Matt Smith MP, Member for Leichhardt
"The Great Barrier Reef is more than a global icon for Far North Queenslanders - it's part of our identity.
"When we protect the Reef, we protect jobs in the local community.
"This targeted funding is an investment in the future of Far North Queensland.
