Great Barrier Reef end-of-basin loads water quality objectives
As part of the Reef protection regulations, the Great Barrier Reef End-of-Basin Load Water Quality Objectives are in place for all Great Barrier Reef catchments (PDF, 1.3MB). The Reef Water Quality Objectives (WQOs) are derived from the end-of-catchment anthropogenic water quality targets set out under the Reef 2050 Water Quality Improvement Plan.
The Reef WQOs address requirements under chapter 4A of the Environmental Protection Act 1994 to establish annual loads for sediments and dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN). The objectives are to be achieved and maintained as per s11 of the Environmental Protection (Water and Wetland Biodiversity) Policy 2019, through consideration when assessing new and expanding development within the Great Barrier Reef catchment.