$820,000 boost to safeguard turtle nests along Queensland coastline

The Australian and Queensland Governments have committed more than $820,000 to support conservation efforts aimed at protecting marine turtle populations across the state.

Seven organisations, operating from Cairns through to the Wide Bay region, will share in the funding under the Nest to Ocean Turtle Protection Program. The initiative focuses on strengthening nest protection and predator control at key nesting sites.

The program, jointly funded by the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments as part of a broader $12 million investment, offers grants of up to $120,000 to enhance and expand existing conservation efforts.

Queensland is home to six of the world's seven marine turtle species, all of which are under threat from climate change, habitat degradation and predation. Since the program began in 2014, more than 40,000 nests have been monitored, with around 90 per cent of eggs successfully hatching due to targeted protection measures.

These efforts have helped an estimated 2.5 million hatchlings make their way to the ocean, significantly improving survival rates.

Federal Environment and Water Minister Murray Watt said the initiative plays a key role in broader efforts to protect the Great Barrier Reef and its wildlife.

"The Albanese Government is committed to safeguarding the Reef and the species that depend on it," he said.

"We recognise the vital role Traditional Owners have played in caring for these environments for thousands of years and continue to support their involvement in conservation.

"By investing in advanced predator control and nest protection strategies, we are giving turtle hatchlings the strongest chance of survival."

Queensland Environment and Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the program was delivering measurable outcomes on the ground.

"Protecting nests from threats such as feral pigs and foxes has enabled millions of hatchlings to safely reach the ocean," he said.

"Maintaining healthy turtle populations is critical for biodiversity and also supports tourism in regional Queensland.

"We remain committed to practical conservation measures that protect these iconic species for the future."