Commonwealth Consolidated Acts Commonwealth Consolidated Acts(1) The main object of this Act is to provide for the long term protection and conservation of the environment, biodiversity and heritage values of the Great Barrier Reef Region.
(2) The other objects of this Act are to do the following, so far as is consistent with the main object:
(a) allow ecologically sustainable use of the Great Barrier Reef Region for purposes including the following:
(i) public enjoyment and appreciation;
(ii) public education about and understanding of the Region;
(iii) recreational, economic and cultural activities;
(iv) research in relation to the natural, social, economic and cultural systems and value of the Great Barrier Reef Region;
(b) encourage engagement in the protection and management of the Great Barrier Reef Region by interested persons and groups, including Queensland and local governments, communities, Indigenous persons, business and industry;
(c) assist in meeting Australia's international responsibilities in relation to the environment and protection of world heritage (especially Australia's responsibilities under the World Heritage Convention).
(3) In order to achieve its objects, this Act:
(a) provides for the establishment, control, care and development of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park; and
(b) establishes the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority; and
(c) provides for zoning plans and plans of management; and
(d) regulates, including by a system of permissions, use of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park in ways consistent with ecosystem - based management and the principles of ecologically sustainable use; and
(e) facilitates partnership with traditional owners in management of marine resources; and
(f) facilitates a collaborative approach to management of the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage area with the Queensland government.