Fees · Destination Guide
Fly-in manta ray sanctuary at the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef
Key fee: Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Environmental Management Charge (EMC)
AUD $8.50 (full day) or AUD $4.25 (part day) from 1 April 2026
Updated Jan 23, 2026 • 15 sources
Confirm these fees before you book so your operator plan and day budget match what you will pay onsite.
Lady Elliot Island sits inside the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The main marine park fee most visitors encounter is the Environmental Management Charge (EMC), collected by commercial operators. Additional costs depend on your Australian visa type and whether you add diving or guided activities.
| Fee | Amount | Applies to | Where to pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Environmental Management Charge (EMC) | AUD $8.50 (full day) or AUD $4.25 (part day) from 1 April 2026 |
Per day in the marine park (as defined by your operator booking type)
| Visitors on commercial tours and services operating in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park |
| Collected by your commercial operator (often bundled into your booking) |
Operators collect the EMC on behalf of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. Confirm whether it is itemized or included in your package price. |
| Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or Visitor Visa | Varies by visa type (ETA app includes an AUD $20 service fee) Varies by visa grant | Most non-Australian passport holders | Australian Government (Home Affairs) online channels | Visa rules depend on nationality and trip purpose. Apply well in advance during peak seasons. |
Fee
Per day in the marine park (as defined by your operator booking type)
Operators collect the EMC on behalf of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. Confirm whether it is itemized or included in your package price.
Varies by visa grant
Visa rules depend on nationality and trip purpose. Apply well in advance during peak seasons.