Matt Smith MP, Member for Leichhardt
The Albanese Government is backing the Great Barrier Reef tourism industry to continue showcasing Australia's natural wonders through our $10 million Reef Educational Experience Fund (REEF).
REEF is part of the $18.5 million targeted regional support package by the Albanese Government to support tourism in two of Australia's most iconic tourism regions – Far North Queensland and Central Australia.
The funding delivers on an election commitment to invest in bringing more tourists to the Great Barrier Reef, supporting thousands of regional Queensland jobs and businesses.
Two grant programs, the $480,000 Tourism Operator Support Grants and the $520,000 Tourism Operator Training Program are helping operators to access the training, upgrades, checks and clearances they need to engage with school groups visiting as part of the 'Kids for the Reef' program.
The 'Kids for the Reef' excursion program will open later this year, providing $6 million for Australian primary-school aged students to experience the Great Barrier Reef firsthand.
A $3 million grant to Tourism Tropical North Queensland was also delivered as part of REEF in January this year, funding international education campaigns about the Reef in key overseas markets. Campaigns are in development in Europe, the United Kingdom, North America, China and Japan.
Quotes attributable to the Assistant Minister for Tourism Nita Green
"The Great Barrier Reef is a cornerstone of Australia's national identity and our tourism industry, contributing more than $9 billion to the economy annually."
"It's essential that we support our Reef tourism industry, so that Australians and visitors from around the world can enjoy it for years to come."
"When visitors come to the Reef, they see it, love it and leave wanting to protect it, and this funding will help our local businesses to deliver experiences that will leave a lasting impression and protect the industry into the future."
Quotes attributable to the Member for Leichhardt Matt Smith
"The Great Barrier Reef is one of the greatest natural wonders and we are extremely fortunate to be the custodians of its welfare.
We often talk about protecting the Reef for generations to come, and part of that responsibility is to ensure those generations appreciate the beauty and significance of this biodiverse wonder.
The Reef Educational Experience Fund will bring an influx of primary school students to witness the Great Barrier Reef first-hand with educational and memorable experiences, while spreading awareness of just how unique and vital the Reef is.
The funding also showcases our region to the rest of the world, boosting tourism and showing kids everywhere that there's more to the Reef than just Finding Nemo."