What does the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) do?
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority is the most important integral authority in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, a huge area that spans 344,400 km2.
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority - or GBRMPA - is responsible for the protection and care of the reef. They work with a wide variety of partners, supporters and advisors with the aim of conserving the reef for future generations. They are responsible for pretty much all of the comings and goings in the park as well as its maintenance.
GBRMPA is not only responsible for ensuring the reef stays healthy by preventing damaging activities but it is much more than that! It is a very diverse and intricate management program that works to protect the balance of life in the park. This means it works with a wide range of activities that include commercial use, fishing, shipping and recreation, plus more. The park itself is multi-use, meaning different parts of the marine park have different uses, each of which is zoned out with definite rules. It is up to the GBRMPA to not only decide what activities can be done and where, but also to enforce these rules and restrictions.
GBRMPA uses zoning, partnerships, education, research and other tools to maintain the care of the protection of the marine park. It is funded by the Commonwealth government and has representatives and employees throughout the entirety of the park. While it has only been active for 40 years, the management of the park is known as the best in the world. They strive to maintain the best possible care for the Great Barrier Reef and continue to fight for its future and well-being.
