Partnering for Coral Biodiversity Conservation
The Next Economy is proud to partner with Great Barrier Reef Legacy on the Forever Reef Project. Our contribution will support the co-design, launch and operation of the project’s First Nations Living Coral Biobank Hub Network—an ambitious initiative to protect coral biodiversity and strengthen regional economies through First Peoples leadership and innovation.
A New Chapter in Reef Conservation
As the climate crisis intensifies, the need for bold, collaborative action to protect the Great Barrier Reef has never been more urgent. Coral reefs are among the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth, yet they are also among the most vulnerable. The Forever Reef Project, led by Great Barrier Reef Legacy (GBR Legacy), offers a powerful response: a living “Coral Ark” of coral species, safeguarded for future generations.
There is a clear window of opportunity to act immediately to secure the biodiversity of corals for all reefs, now and into the future. The Forever Reef Project will preserve the genetic biodiversity of hard coral species by collecting and maintaining living samples of over 400 species from the Great Barrier Reef and supporting reef-dependent communities to care for their corals around the world.
Dr Dean Miller, Founder and Managing Director, GBRL Legacy
At the heart of this effort is a commitment to First Peoples leadership. The Forever Reef Hub Network will be a series of purpose-built coral care facilities, managed by Reef Traditional Custodians across
the Reef’s expanse — from Bundaberg to the Torres Strait. These hubs will not only preserve coral biodiversity but also create jobs, support cultural knowledge sharing and education initiatives, and strengthen Sea Country stewardship.
The Next Economy’s Role
The Next Economy (TNE) is proud to support the delivery of Stage 2 of the Forever Reef First Nations Living Coral Biobank Hub Network. Our role focuses on supporting the establishment of the pilot Hub in partnership with Dawul Wuru Aboriginal Corporation (DWAC); and laying the groundwork for development the broader network.
This work builds on the successful completion of Stage 1, which developed the business model for the Hub Network. Stage 2 is now underway, transitioning the project from concept to reality.
We’re excited to be making a difference by preserving and nurturing the coral biodiversity of Yirrganydji Sea Country through our cultural lens for our current and future generations.
DWAC Team
Project Phases and Outcomes
The Forever Reef Hub Network is being developed in three key stages:
Stage 1: Design (Complete)
- Development of the First Nations Living Coral Biobank Hub Network Business Model
- Engagement, planning, and analysis (Sept 2022 – June 2023)
Stage 2: Demonstration (Underway)
- Establishment of the Pilot Hub with Dawul Wuru Aboriginal Corporation
- Collection and preservation of hard coral species from Yirrganydji Country
- Creation of new jobs in aquaculture, facility management, and education
- Generation of new revenue from biodiversity conservation and education
- Demonstration of education and engagement experiences
GBR Legacy and Dawul Wuru have completed site planning, ranger training has commenced, educational material is being developed, and revenue raising options are being scoped. Construction is due to commence in August and operations shortly afterwards.
TNE is supporting the project team to develop opportunities for sustainable revenue generation like access to biodiversity markets and assisting with the co-design of collaboration and agreement making protocols that are culturally appropriate and reflect the team’s aspiration for strong, long-term collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Stage 3: Scaling (Future)
- Establishment of multiple First Nations Living Coral Biobank Hubs across the Reef
- Preservation of all 400+ hard coral species from the Great Barrier Reef
- Creation of sustainable jobs and regional economic opportunities
- Deepened cultural connection and stewardship of sea country
More About GBR Legacy and Forever Reef
GBR Legacy is a not-for-profit social enterprise with over 35 years of experience in reef expeditions, science, and education. The Forever Reef Project is their flagship initiative to preserve the genetic diversity of hard coral species—starting with the Great Barrier Reef and expanding globally.
Their parent facility in Port Douglas already houses over one third of the Great Barrier Reef’s hard coral species making it the most biodiverse collection of living corals in the world. The goal is to collect and care for all remaining species in collaboration with Traditional Owners, ensuring their survival in the face of climate change.
To find out more visit: https://www.foreverreef.org
TNE’s 2025–2030 Strategy
For the next five years, The Next Economy will prioritise partnerships within critical regions: those that hold the key to Australia achieving net zero by 2035. This includes regions with significant levels of First Nations land and sea stewardship, particularly across Northern Australia.
TNE’s role working with GBR Legacy aims to support First Nations leadership and participation in coral biodiversity conservation along the Great Barrier Reef, within a model that facilitates economic sovereignty. This project will generate new insights into how First Nations communities can be better resourced to protect and regenerate nature and achieve Australia’s biodiversity and climate goals.