Wetlands and reefs are of critical importance to the environment in Australia, providing a range of ecological, economic, and social benefits. In Australia, wetlands are found in various forms, including marshes, swamps, billabongs, and floodplains, and cover approximately 6% of the continent's landmass. Wetlands in Australia are vital for water regulation, acting as natural filters that remove pollutants and nutrients, and playing a key role in water storage and flood control. They are also critical habitats for a range of bird species, including migratory birds, and support many fish and aquatic species. Australian wetlands also have significant cultural and spiritual importance to Indigenous communities, who have been managing them sustainably for thousands of years.

Similarly, reefs are essential to the Australian marine environment, with the Great Barrier Reef being the world's largest coral reef system, covering an area of approximately 344,000 square kilometers. The reef provides a unique habitat for a diverse range of marine species, including over 1,500 fish species, six of the world's seven species of marine turtle, and a range of sharks, rays, and dolphins. The reef also plays an important role in protecting the Australian coastline from storm surges and provides a range of ecosystem services, such as carbon sequestration and nutrient cycling. The Great Barrier Reef supports a vibrant tourism industry, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the economy of Queensland. However, the reef is under threat from climate change, pollution, and overfishing, and it is critical that we work to protect it for future generations.