What’s Happening?
Registrations are open for the Great Barrier Reef Clean-up 2026, giving communities another way to care for local waterways.
People across the Great Barrier Reef region and connected catchments are invited to remove and record marine debris. Together, their work can stop debris before it continues through waterways and into the Reef.
Why It Matters
Every item removed and recorded improves the immediate clean-up while also contributing useful evidence.
That information enters the Australian Marine Debris Initiative Database and helps identify where debris comes from. It can then support long-term solutions across the wider region.
Local Impact
People do not need to live beside the coast to take part, because inland communities are also included.
Connected waterways mean a clean-up further inland can still reduce debris moving towards the Reef. This gives local people a practical way to support a shared community effort.
By the Numbers
- The Great Barrier Reef Clean-up will bring communities together throughout October 2026.
- Participants have two choices, organise their own local clean-up or join an event near them.
- Five types of groups can organise events, workplaces, schools, community groups, friends and families.
Zoom In
Organisers can bring together their workplace, school, community group, friends or family for a local clean-up.
Those who do not want to organise can find an existing event nearby and join. Both options involve removing debris and recording what is collected.
Zoom Out
Each record becomes part of the Australian Marine Debris Initiative Database. The shared data connects local clean-ups with evidence about debris sources and long-term solutions.
The campaign captures that shared purpose: “From catchment to coastline to the Great Barrier Reef, every clean-up makes an impact.”
What To Look For Next?
With registrations open, groups can begin arranging local events while individuals search for a clean-up near them.
When October arrives, each collected and recorded item will contribute to the shared evidence.
