$2 million Boost to Protect The Great Barrier Reef

Critical habitats for threatened species in Queensland's Mary River are being strengthened through more than $2 million in joint investment from the Albanese Government and the Crisafulli Government, delivering tangible improvements to water quality and environmental resilience.

The funding supports a suite of integrated, locally driven projects across the Mary River catchment, focused on protecting threatened species while reducing sediment and nutrient runoff that impacts the Great Barrier Reef.

More than $2 million has been awarded to the Mary River Catchment Coordination Committee (MRCCC) to deliver the Mary River Integrated Project, a collaborative program bringing together researchers, Traditional Owners, landholders, councils and community groups.

As part of the program, MRCCC received over $550,000 through joint Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements to improve and expand habitat for threatened species including the Australian lungfish, Mary River turtle, white-throated snapping turtle and Mary River cod. An additional $1.5 million was secured through the Queensland Government's Reef Place-Based Integrated Projects initiative, which supports locally tailored solutions to improve water quality and reduce pollution.

Key outcomes from the projects include increased spawning activity for Mary River cod, rehabilitation of aquatic plant beds critical for lungfish breeding, protection of turtle nesting sites, and reduced sediment and pollutant runoff entering waterways from surrounding land uses.

The recovery program is being delivered in partnership with organisations including Griffith University, Tiaro Landcare, Burnett Mary Regional Group, Kabi Kabi Traditional Owners, Jinibara People Aboriginal Corporation, local councils and industry stakeholders.

On-ground works include the installation of submerged "cod logs" to support fish breeding, restoration of riparian zones along riverbanks, predator management and hatchling habitat structures for turtles, and targeted programs with dairy farmers and small graziers to improve land and water management practices.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the projects were a vital step in long-term recovery for the Mary River and its catchments.

"The Albanese Government is working closely with the Crisafulli Government to ensure recovery efforts improve both water quality and the habitats relied on by threatened species," Minister McBain said.

Queensland Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said community-led initiatives were central to protecting Queensland's biodiversity and strengthening resilience for the Reef.

"These projects demonstrate genuine environmental action - reducing nutrient and sediment pollution while delivering real conservation outcomes for threatened fish and turtles," Minister Powell said.

"With more than 25 years of conservation experience, MRCCC's community-driven approach shows the power of partnerships to deliver lasting benefits for the environment and local communities alike."