Federal Environment Minister Tony Burke has reiterated the Federal Government’s ‘commitment to protecting the Great Barrier Reef’ following the release of the State Party Report on the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area.

Mr Burke said the management and protection of the reef was of the utmost importance for the Government, saying it remained a top priority for the Commonwealth.

"The Great Barrier Reef is an iconic Australian environmental asset, the Gillard Government is absolutely committed to the protection of the Reef and our oceans," Mr Burke said.

The State Party Report, presented to the World Heritage Committee, addresses the 2012 decision of the World Heritage Committee and the recommendations of the 2012 joint World Heritage Centre/International Union for the Conservation of Nature monitoring mission.

The World Heritage Committee’s report included a number of decisions for Australia to strengthen arrangements to protect and manage the reef system.

"This Report highlights the government's actions so far including by conducting a comprehensive strategic assessment, and progressing the independent Review of the Port of Gladstone.

The State Party Report can be found here