The Coastal Management Plan is prepared under the Coastal Protection and Management Act 1995 (Coastal Act) to describe how the coastal zone of Queensland is to be managed. The objects of the Coastal Act related to coastal management are to: provide for the protection, conservation, rehabilitation and management of the coastal zone, including its resources and biological diversity; and, encourage the enhancement of knowledge of coastal resources and the effect of human activities on the coastal zone. This plan provides direction and guidance for the use of Queensland's coastal resources to achieve coastal management outcomes. It is primarily aimed at local government, which is responsible for managing large areas of public coastal land and beaches. However, State Government, Traditional Owners, national and state marine park managers, port authorities, and operators who manage specialist areas of the coast and tidal water, will also find the policies and supporting information useful in guiding management decisions on the coast.