Despite growing scientific understanding of Australia's Great Southern Reef system, translating this knowledge into effective conservation action remains challenging. Through the Great Southern Reef Research Partnership, we examine innovative approaches to bridge this knowledge-action gap. This speed talk showcases evidence-based strategies that transform community engagement across the 8,000 km temperate reef system. By identifying barriers to conservation behaviour and testing targeted interventions, we aim reveal practical pathways for fostering sustainable reef stewardship. Our findings demonstrate how behavioural science principles can enhance marine conservation outcomes, providing marine managers with actionable tools for achieving lasting positive change in temperate reef protection.