The Australian and Queensland governments have announced a further $2.8 million to protect threatened turtle species in the Great Barrier Reef through the Nest to Ocean Turtle Protection Program.
The Program supports turtle nest protection and predator control efforts to reduce the threat posed by feral pigs and other predator species.
Since 2014, the Program has consistently achieved greater than 90% nest survival as a result of the predator control activities and direct nest protection.
In total, it is estimated that approximately 2.5 million hatchlings have been protected since the inception of the program.
The funding will enhance existing programs and support innovative ideas such as the use of thermal imaging and drones to control feral pigs and other predators, to increase the survivorship of marine turtle eggs and hatchlings.
All species of marine turtle that occur within the Reef are migratory species and actions to support nesting success will ensure their ongoing contribution to the outstanding universal value of the Reef.
Since 2014, the Australian and Queensland government have invested over $9.5 million to support the program.
Through joint funding and collaboration, we are boosting Australia's efforts to ensure the Reef's marine life is protected now and into the future.
