The Cairns and Far North Environment Centre (CAFNEC) is a not-for-profit incorporated association which acts as conservation council for the region from Cardwell north to Torres Strait and from the east coast to the Gulf of Carpentaria. The Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics World Heritage Areas are included. Collaboration with other conservation organisations on environmental issues of state and national importance has become increasingly important.

CAFNEC also plays an important role within the broader environmental movement, collaborating with other organisations focusing on environmental issues of state and national importance.