Coastal development pressure on the Great Barrier Reef

Key Finding

The Great Barrier Reef’s ecosystem remains vulnerable to the effects of past, current and future coastal development, as well as cumulative impacts. The extent of new coastal development has been minor, although the impact of past development remains high. Projected future populations will increase development pressure.

Urban and industrial development occupies a small proportion of the catchment (less than 0.7%); minimal expansion has occurred since 2014. Urban run-off is a lower threat to than run-off from other major land uses such as agriculture, which covers about 72% of the catchment. Agriculture is the main pollutant source affecting the condition of the inshore marine ecosystem, via land-based run-off.

New and pre-existing barriers to flow and modification of coastal ecosystems continue to affect Reef health. Barriers to flow, such as tidal barrages and tidal works, have historically been installed to prevent the ingress of saline tidal waters and often to provide road access to the foreshore. Modifying coastal ecosystems for coastal development limits their ability to provide ecosystem function and services that support the Reef’s values.

More information:

• Great Barrier Reef Outlook Report 2019, and references therein

Relevant Sustainable Development Goals’ targets

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