Our vision
To protect the values of the Wet Tropics through collaboration, culture, knowledge and passion.
Our mission
To lead, inspire, advise and support the Australian and global community to protect and share the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area in perpetuity.
The Wet Tropics Management Authority (WTMA) provides strategic leadership, bringing people together to protect and manage one of the world's most remarkable landscapes.
Established after the Wet Tropics of Queensland was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1988, we help Australia meet its international responsibility to protect, conserve and present the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area (the Area). We also work to ensure people can experience, appreciate and care for this globally significant place.
In 1990, the Australian and Queensland governments committed to jointly funding and managing the Area. That partnership led to the creation of dedicated legislation and the establishment of WTMA.
Today, we operate under the Wet Tropics World Heritage Protection and Management Act 1993, providing strategic leadership and administering the legislation that guides activities and land use within the Area. An independent Board of Directors governs our work, supported by advisory committees.
We recognise Rainforest Aboriginal Peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the Wet Tropics and acknowledge their enduring connection to Country. We support an indigenous rights-based approach that respects their cultural authority, knowledge and leadership in caring for this landscape.
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© WTMAWTMA at Ecofiesta, Gimuy Walubara Yidinji Country -
© Queensland GovernmentJindalba Boardwalk upgrade opening, Eastern Kuku Yalanji Country
What sets us apart
For more than 30 years, we’ve worked alongside Rainforest Aboriginal Peoples, governments, land managers, researchers, industry and community organisations to protect the Outstanding Universal Value of the Wet Tropics.
Our role is unique. We combine legislative responsibility with deep regional knowledge and trusted partnerships to connect people, coordinate action and achieve lasting outcomes for the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.
What we do
We provide strategic leadership for protecting and managing of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area by:
- developing policies, plans and programs
- coordinating management across agencies and partners
- supporting conservation, rehabilitation and research
- monitoring the condition of the Area
- promoting understanding of its World Heritage values
- supporting education and community engagement
- facilitating cooperative management
- helping Australia meet its national and international obligations under the World Heritage Convention.
Our work is guided by long-term planning, including the Wet Tropics Strategic Plan.
How the World Heritage Area is managed
Protecting the Wet Tropics takes a shared effort. The Area spans diverse landscapes, land tenures and management responsibilities, so no single organisation can do it alone.
WTMA sets strategic direction and coordinates management across the Area. Day-to-day management is carried out by land managers, including Rainforest Aboriginal Peoples, private landholders, local government and Queensland Government agencies.
We work closely with these partners, as well as researchers, community groups, natural resource management organisations, the tourism industry, agriculture and the conservation sector. By working together, we help protect the Wet Tropics while balancing environmental, cultural and community values for future generations.
Last updated: 13 Oct 2026