The Commonwealth of Australia as represented by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Reef Authority) is seeking Responses to this Expressions of Interest (EOI) from suitably qualified respondents (Respondents) to carry out one or a number of Service Packages as set out in this EOI documentation to assist in achieving the objectives of the Great Barrier Reef Aquarium Redevelopment (the Project).

This process will assist in the construction of the Great Barrier Reef Aquarium (Aquarium) owned by the Reef Authority. This expression of interest process provides an opportunity for interested entities to demonstrate their skills, capabilities and capacity to contribute to the final Detailed Design through completion of the Requirements as set out in the EOI documentation. Participation in this EOI process does not automatically entitle a Respondent to participate in any subsequent process.

The Aquarium is the Commonwealth’s National Education Centre for the Great Barrier Reef (the Reef). The Project will stay true to this purpose by delivering a state-of-the-art facility that prioritises safe, inclusive, and equitable access for all visitors. Delivering a world-class contemporary education and tourism facility to educate visitors on the importance of protecting the Reef will not only have a positive impact on the Reef’s sustainable future but also have a positive social and economic impact on the community. It will deliver a national asset for the government to continue to promote Australia’s world-leading reef management initiatives and cultivate lifelong learning opportunities vital for the conservation of one of the world's most iconic ecosystems.

The Project will prioritise and implement re-use or refurbishment based on feasibility, usability, remaining life and compliance with current Australian Standards and legislation, and to maximise sustainability outcomes and cost savings. The building will target a Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) 5 or 6 Star Green Star rating. It will see an improvement in the quality of exhibits previously offered.

The redeveloped Aquarium will continue to place living reef exhibits at the heart of the experience, complemented by innovative technologies and immersive digital experiences that enhance learning and engagement. This balance will ensure the facility remains a powerful platform for reef education, conservation messaging, and community connection. Above all, the design will ensure the Coral Reef Exhibit (the very large reef aquarium ecosystem) remains the centrepiece of the experience, showcasing the living reef in a way that inspires learning, wonder, and action.

A preliminary concept design has been developed by the Reef Authority and is required to be developed into a Detailed Design suite of documents for building approval, for construction tender and for construction. Following the tender for construction, and throughout the construction phase, Services Providers will be required to prepare designs for construction and provide Services and support the Project to completion.

The time and date specified in the Timeline that the EOI closes being 5pm AEST, Monday 01 December 2025.

EOI Contact Officer for submissions and enquiries via AquariumTenders@gbrmpa.gov.au

The time and date specified in the Timetable being: 5pm AEST, Monday 24 November 2025.

Respondents may submit queries in writing via email to the Contact Officer any time up to seven calendar days before the Closing Time.

The Microsoft Teams online briefing to be held at 11am AEST, Wednesday 12 November 2025, for registered Respondents.

Respondents must register via email to the Contact Officer by 5pm AEST, Tuesday 11 November 2025.

Please refer to the EOI information on AusTender.

Please visit AusTender for further information.

PROC-2025-0558