A looming fee increase for operators on the Great Barrier Reef could force many Cairns-based tourism businesses to shut down, industry leaders have warned. The proposed hike, which would see fees rise by up to 300 percent, is intended to fund reef management and conservation efforts, but operators say it will be devastating for the local economy.
Industry concerns over fee hike
The Association of Marine Park Tourism Operators (AMPTO) has expressed alarm over the proposed increase, which could see the daily fee per passenger rise from $6.50 to $19.50. AMPTO executive officer Col McKenzie said the increase would be catastrophic for many small operators already struggling with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and recent natural disasters.
“This is an extreme measure that will put many operators out of business,” McKenzie said. “We understand the need for funding reef management, but this increase is unsustainable for our industry.”
Impact on local economy
The Great Barrier Reef is a major economic driver for the Cairns region, supporting thousands of jobs and generating billions of dollars annually. The proposed fee increase could lead to job losses and reduced visitor numbers, as operators pass on the costs to tourists.
“If these fees go ahead, we will see a significant drop in visitation,” said one local operator. “Tourists are already price-sensitive, and this will make reef trips unaffordable for many.”
Calls for alternative funding
Industry representatives are calling on the government to consider alternative funding models, such as a levy on tourists or a contribution from the federal budget. They argue that the current proposal places an unfair burden on operators who are already facing significant challenges.
“We need a sustainable solution that protects both the reef and the businesses that rely on it,” McKenzie said. “We are willing to work with the government to find a better way forward.”
Government response
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) has defended the proposed fee increase, stating that it is necessary to ensure the long-term health of the reef. A spokesperson said the authority is committed to working with stakeholders to minimize the impact on operators.
“The reef faces significant threats from climate change, and we need to invest in its protection,” the spokesperson said. “We are open to discussions with the industry to find a balanced approach.”
The proposed fee increase is currently under consultation, with a decision expected later this year. Operators are urging the government to reconsider the scale of the increase to avoid widespread closures.
