Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders  are Australia’s First People, who for 60,000 years have cared for their land and sea Country.

They are the first scientists, farmers, engineers, innovators, and conservationists. They have successfully nurtured and protected their environment through changing seasons and climates, guided by traditional knowledge and customs passed down through generations.

As there are 70 Traditional Owner groups that span the length of the Great Barrier Reef, who have ongoing connection and custodial responsibilities, working closely with Traditional Owner groups on Reef restoration activities is essential.

Today, in partnership with the Great Barrier Reef Foundation, Traditional Owners are at the forefront of the largest ever co-designed Reef protection effort. By weaving traditional knowledge with western science, they’re developing and applying innovative solutions to the challenges threatening coral reefs.

Genuine co-design and co-delivery partnerships with Traditional Owners and Reef communities   result in better, stronger and more enduring outcomes for the Great Barrier Reef.

The Great Barrier Reef Foundation acknowledges the Traditional Owners of all lands on which we work, and we pay our respects to their Elders, past and present. We recognise the position of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the traditional custodians  of this continent and additionally, acknowledge the important contributions made by both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in contributing to a strong and vibrant Australian society. We recognise the enduring connection that land, sea and sky have to the identity, strength and wellbeing of First Nations  individuals, families, and communities. We extend our gratitude and acknowledgement to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals who are employees of the Great Barrier Reef Foundation.

We also acknowledge the Traditional Owners of all the lands on which Great Barrier Reef Foundation sites are located as well as the many nations in which our on-Country work takes place.