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The Great Barrier Reef Experience

Great Barrier Reef Education Experience

APPLY FOR A SUBSIDY

Learn on the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system and home to some of the richest biodiversity on the planet. Recognised globally as one of the most iconic tourism experiences, it remains Australia’s greatest natural attraction.

The reef isn’t just a destination – it offers students and young people a chance to step into a living classroom and experience learning like never before.

Great Barrier Reef Education Experience Program

The Queensland Government’s Great Barrier Reef Education Experience Program supports primary, secondary, and home educators to undertake eligible excursions to the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. Schools can apply for subsidies of up to $150 per student/learner to help make these unique learning opportunities more accessible.

Queensland schools will need to submit their application at least four weeks prior to the departure date of their school excursion.

All applications will be processed in order of receipt and schools are encouraged to submit applications as early as possible.

Subsidies available for school excursions completed by 31 December 2029, or until funding is fully allocated.

Program objectives

The program is designed to:

  • Enable more students/ young people to experience the reef through school and learning-linked excursions.
  • Facilitate place-based activities aligned to the Australian and Queensland curriculum (where required), helping students/ young people learn in an engaging and meaningful way.
  • Provide opportunities for students/ young people to participate in reef restoration and conservation projects.
  • Build greater awareness and understanding of the reef’s natural habitats and the challenges it faces.
  • Support reef tourism operators by helping them develop and refresh educational products.
  • Stimulate sustainable tourism and visitation to the reef region, supporting local businesses and encouraging repeat visits.

Download the Great Barrier Reef Education Experience Guidelines (PDF).

Supporting the Reef and its Future

Has your school / home educator been approved for the subsidy and has now
completed the excursion to the Great Barrier Reef?

Be sure to complete the Post Trip Report within six weeks
of your return to receive the subsidy payment!

This program not only enriches students’/ young people’s education but also supports the Great Barrier Reef tourism industry, which has been impacted by natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic. By fostering new, sustainable market opportunities, the initiative contributes to the reef’s conservation and the region’s economic growth.