Human use

Human use of the Reef encompasses a wide range of activities, including commercial marine tourism, defence, fishing, recreation, research and education, ports, shipping and the traditional use of marine resources by First Nations peoples. 

Human use can have direct and indirect impacts on the Reef’s ecological, economic, heritage, and social values. For example, if not appropriately managed, fishing (whether recreational or commercial) may impact species populations and food chains, shipping may increase the risk of pollution, and port development may alter habitats for species. Human use when coupled with other pressures leads to cumulative impacts that can disrupt the health of the Reef ecosystem.

Resilience-based and adaptive management approaches, supported by ongoing monitoring of human use, are essential to ensuring the Reef continues to provide economic, cultural, and social benefits while maintaining its ecological resilience.