The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority's (GBRMPA) sustainable tourism initiative scored a top accolade at the World Travel and Tourism Council's Tourism for Tomorrow Awards.

The Destination Award recognised the value of working with the tourism industry to manage and protect one of the most internationally recognised natural icons.

GBRMPA Tourism and Recreation Group Director Lisha Mulqueeny said the award was an excellent achievement for the agency and industry.

"We are all working together to care for the Great Barrier Reef so future generations can continue to enjoy this precious natural treasure," she said.

"The support and cooperation of tourism operators has been exceptional.

"They are some of our greatest environmentalists on behalf of the Great Barrier Reef because their business depends on it."

Tourism based around the Great Barrier Reef generates 54 000 full-time jobs and contributes $5.1 billion to the Australian economy each year.

The Great Barrier Reef also attracts nearly two million tourists and 4.9 million recreational visitors each year.

Ms Mulqueeny said the agency and tourism industry had secured a well-managed, sustainable industry over the last five years.

"By working together we have significantly improved environmental, cultural and business outcomes," she said.

"We reward high standard tourism operations and work hard to increase visitor understanding of the Marine Park by improving the quality of information presented to them.

"Tourism operators actively participate in monitoring and reporting on the health of the Reef - this helps build their understanding and appreciation of the Reef."

The Tourism for Tomorrow Awards were set up in 1989 by the Federation of Tour Operators to encourage action from all sectors of the industry to protect the environment.

This year there were 130 applications from more than 40 countries in four categories.

For more information on the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority tourism industry partnership visit www.gbrmpa.gov.au.