Great Barrier Reef: Federal Government announces fund boost to protect it

New Delhi : The Federal Government has announced a grant of 60-million dollar to ensure the protection of Great Barrier Reef, which had been under severe threat of extinction with large sections decimated by coral bleaching and outbreaks of the coral-eating starfish.

Michaelia Cash, Minister for Jobs and Innovation, said $10 million would be spent on an "all-out assault" on the crown-of-thorns starfish, with the number of culling vessels increased from three to eight.

A major chunk of the fund will be pushed to ensure clean water at the Great Barrier Reef in coming 18 months.

"This builds on our success with farmers reducing soil erosion, improving on-farm nutrient, management and restoring coastal and riparian vegetation in the reef catchments," Ms Cash said.

A fund of 6 million dollars will be provided to Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) and the CSIRIO for their research to "develop new ways for the reef to adapt and recover".

5 million dollars will be spent on officers who will alert researchers about bleaching at the Great Barrier Reef.

Ms Cash said the funding showed the Federal Government's commitment to protecting the reef's future.

"The Great Barrier Reef is a critical national asset — we want to ensure its future for the benefits of all Australians, particularly those whose livelihoods depend on the reef," she said.

"This is all about investing in the future of the reef itself — this is all about looking at how technology can assist us in terms of new ways to help the reef adapt and recover."

Ms Cash said the Government would work closely with CSIRO chief executive Dr Larry Marshall and the country's chief scientist Dr Alan Finkel to deliver the $60 million program.