Reef industries worth $6b to Australian economy

The Great Barrier Reef has netted the Australian economy almost $6 billion over the past financial year, according to a new report.

The report by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority shows reef industries employ about 63,000 people, with tourism accounting for 54,000 jobs.

Federal Environment Minister Ian Campbell says it all comes down to good management.

"This economic performance linked to a world renowned environment icon shows an intrinsic link between good environmental management," he said.

Marine Park Tourism Operators managing director Col McKenzie says the far north relies heavily on environmental tourism.

"The engine room for the far north's economy is tourism," he said.

"[Mr] Campbell's figures show that and the biggest component of tourism is environmental tourism."

The report is the first of a series to be produced over coming years to monitor the reef's economic contribution.

Source: www.abc.net.au