**Australian Government Commits $15M to Restore Coastal Habitats on Great Barrier Reef**
The Australian government has announced a funding boost of AUD 15 million (USD 9.5 million) to protect the coastal habitats of the Great Barrier Reef, according to official sources. The Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek, and Nita Green, federal government’s Special Envoy for the Great Barrier Reef, have jointly committed this amount for a new program aimed at restoring coastal ecosystems on the world’s largest coral reef.
Under the program, projects will be eligible to seek funding for the rehabilitation and restoration of seagrass, mangrove, saltmarsh, and wetland ecosystems. These ecosystems, also known as blue carbon ecosystems, play a crucial role in improving water quality on the Great Barrier Reef by filtering nutrients and sediments.
In a joint statement, Minister Plibersek emphasized the value of the Great Barrier Reef as one of Australia’s most precious natural assets. She also highlighted the critical importance of blue carbon ecosystems in protecting the reef from run-off and providing essential habitats for protected species such as dugongs, migratory shorebirds, and marine turtles.
Projects that aim to rebuild previously damaged coastal ecosystems, enhance community involvement in reef protection, and improve the resilience of coastal habitats will be eligible to apply for funding of up to AUD 2 million (USD 1.2 million).
A 2021 report published by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, a government agency, underscored the significant threat posed to the reef’s long-term health by poor water quality. Therefore, improving the quality of water entering the area is of utmost importance.
The Australian government’s commitment to investing in the restoration of coastal habitats on the Great Barrier Reef highlights its dedication to protecting this iconic natural wonder. By safeguarding these blue carbon ecosystems, the government aims to ensure the preservation and resilience of the reef’s invaluable marine life.
Overall, this funding boost aims to drive conservation efforts, enhance community engagement, and mitigate the impact of run-off on the Great Barrier Reef. By restoring and protecting coastal habitats, Australia is taking significant steps toward the long-term health and sustainability of this globally significant ecological marvel.
