Fees · Destination Guide
Cairns & Great Barrier Reef
Tropical gateway to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, minke whales, and rainforest-to-reef adventures
Updated Oct 29, 2025 • 13 sources
Fees And Permits
Confirm these fees before you book so your operator plan and day budget match what you will pay onsite.
Fees You Can't Skip
- Environmental Management Charge (EMC) - AUD $8.00 full day, AUD $4.00 part day
- Typical payment pattern: Tickets on commercial reef trips include the Environmental Management Charge that funds park management.
What people usually pay
Tickets on commercial reef trips include the Environmental Management Charge that funds park management. Private boating must comply with zoning and anchoring rules.
| Fee | Amount | Applies to | Where to pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Management Charge (EMC) | AUD $8.00 full day, AUD $4.00 part day per person per day with commercial operator | Most paying visitors on permitted trips | Included in reef operator ticket | Collected by permit holders for the Reef Authority. Scheduled to increase to AUD $8.50 full day from 1 April 2026. |