In 1975, the Government of Australia enacted the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975, which created the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, and defined what acts were prohibited on the Reef. The Australian Government also has recognised the ecological significance of this Park by its inclusion in the nation's Biodiversity Action Plan. The Australian Government manages the reef through the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and in partnership with the Queensland Government, to ensure that it is widely understood and used in a sustainable manner. A combination of zoning, management plans, permits, education and incentives (such as eco-tourism certification) are used in the effort to conserve the Great Barrier Reef.

From "Russell Reichelt Chairman and Chief Executive GBRMPA " In the three decades since the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park was created there have been many changes. The number of visitors to the region has steadily escalated, as has the number of people living and working along the coastal region. We have seen waves of crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks, and a rise in the frequency and extent of coral bleaching caused by increasing peak summer temperatures. The Authority aims to achieve its goals through a number of vitally important relationships. Most important is the link to public communities through our local marine advisory committees, Reef Guardian programmes and publications. The Queensland Government is a key partner in delivering the operational management of the Marine Park through its environment and fisheries portfolios. The head of the Queensland Premier's Department is a member of the Authority. The Authority operates cooperatively and is closely linked with other important Australian Government departments and agencies. We are grateful for the support and advice we receive from the industry peak bodies, especially in tourism and fisheries, and the Reef Advisory Committees working on critical issues. We also value the cooperative relationships with the scientific research community, particularly through joint ventures with umbrella consortiums, such as the Reef and Rainforest Research Centre comprised of nine important research and academic members."