Fees · Destination Guide
A Southern Great Barrier Reef lagoon day trip with manta bommies, turtle encounters, and a wild coral cay walk
Key fee: Great Barrier Reef Environmental Management Charge (EMC)
AUD $8.00 full-day / AUD $4.00 part-day (rising to AUD $8.50 / AUD $4.25 from 1 Apr 2026)
Updated Jan 23, 2026 • 13 sources
Confirm these fees before you book so your operator plan and day budget match what you will pay onsite.
Most visitors only encounter two categories of fees: the Great Barrier Reef Environmental Management Charge (EMC) collected by your tour operator, and (if you camp) a Queensland Parks camping permit and nightly fees. There is no separate island "reef tag" to buy for day tours, and there is no destination-specific tourism levy beyond standard Australian entry and visa costs. Always confirm what is included in your booking confirmation, because some operators bundle charges while others itemize them.
| Fee | Amount | Applies to | Where to pay | Notes |
|---|
| Great Barrier Reef Environmental Management Charge (EMC) | AUD $8.00 full-day / AUD $4.00 part-day (rising to AUD $8.50 / AUD $4.25 from 1 Apr 2026) per person per day | Most visitors joining a permitted reef tour | Operator collects (see GBRMPA EMC guidance) | The EMC funds management of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Your operator typically includes or itemizes it in the booking flow. |
| Capricornia Cays National Park camping permit (Lady Musgrave Island) | AUD $7.50 per person per night (AUD $30 family per night) per night (permit required) | Overnight campers on Lady Musgrave Island | Where to pay | Camping is capped (limited sites) and is closed in February and March each year to protect turtle hatchlings. Open fires and generators are not permitted, and you must carry out all waste. |
Fee
per person per day
The EMC funds management of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Your operator typically includes or itemizes it in the booking flow.
per night (permit required)
Camping is capped (limited sites) and is closed in February and March each year to protect turtle hatchlings. Open fires and generators are not permitted, and you must carry out all waste.