Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have had a deep connection to the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) for thousands of years, with cultural practices and knowledge passed down across generations. Prior to the end of the last ice age, these peoples inhabited what is now the sea floor. Despite historical events of dispossession, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people continue to maintain a strong connection to their land and sea Country. There are around 70 Traditional Owner groups with authority for managing Sea Country within the GBR Marine Park.

The GBR Authority is actively working with Traditional Owners through several initiatives, such as Traditional Use of Marine Resources Agreements (TUMRAs), the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Strategy, and Indigenous ranger programs.

The Alluvium Group was engaged to support the Reef Authority in Phase 1 of a project aimed at developing a strategic pathway for co-management, co-governance, and co-design with Traditional Owners. NCC facilitated an internal review of the Reef Authority’s management processes, policies, and strategies to enhance these partnerships. This work aligns with the Reef 2050 objectives and informs phases 2 and 3 actions and consultations under the initiative.