Reef Snapshot

About this Snapshot

Summer is a critical time for the health of coral with increased likelihood of exposure to stressors. This snapshot provides a summary of conditions on the Great Barrier Reef (the Reef) from December 2025 to March 2026, how these conditions impact coral, and actions underway to help coral reefs. The snapshot focuses on coral and does not present information on the health of other habitats or species.

Each year, towards the end of summer, the snapshot is prepared by the three main Australian Government agencies responsible for Reef management and science: the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Reef Authority), Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), and CSIRO.

This snapshot is based on the latest available science and information available at the time of writing.

It sets the scene for the more comprehensive reports released later in the year, such as the mid‑year Long‑Term Monitoring Program reports by AIMS, and reports from the Marine Monitoring Program managed by the Reef Authority.

Download the Reef Snapshot 2025-26 document by clicking this link.

Learn more about how we assess coral bleaching events on the Great Barrier Reef

Science used in this Snapshot

Monitoring the health of the Reef is a joint effort with our monitoring partners. This snapshot draws on results from multiple monitoring programs and other sources. 

AIMS Long‑Term Monitoring Program monitors the Great Barrier Reef focusing on the status and trends in indicators of reef condition. Researchers examine between 80 and 130 representative coral reefs annually.

A further 30 inshore reefs are monitored as part of the Reef Authority’s Marine Monitoring Program.

Additional observations are gathered by the multiple organisations and people contributing to the Eye on the Reef program, including through the Reef Joint Field Management Program, Crown‑of‑thorns Starfish Control Program, and by Traditional Owners and the Reef‑based tourism industry.