A TASKFORCE predicts it will cost $8.2 billion to achieve the maximum reduction in runoff into the Great Barrier Reef.

The findings come on the back of the release of the final report from the Great Barrier Reef Water Science Taskforce with the final cost lower than previous estimates.

Whitsunday dive operator Tony Fontes said it would still require a massive commitment from government to fix water quality but it was a step in the right direction.

"In regard to protecting the reef, this is a great starting point," he said.

"$8.2 billion seems like a lot of money and it is a lot of money but given the condition of the reef, every cent is required, in fact I wouldn't be surprised to see if it blows out more than that."

Mr Fontes said that although stopping the damage should still be the priority, it was better late than never.

"They've recognised the need to protect the reef," he said.

"Government in the past have failed. If we tried (to fix it) long ago it wouldn't be so costly.

"Up to this date governments have said it would be in the millions, finally someone has recognised the need for more than that."

Mr Fontes said water quality was a "real Whitsunday problem".

It was Thursday that Environment Minister Steven Miles on Thursday received the final report and said it was a positive result in regards to the current level of government investment.

"Taking into account our existing expenditure and new commitments, the Queensland Government will spend at least $450 million on reef water quality initiatives over the next 10 years. This complements the investment by the Australian Government," he said.

"Together with private investment, I am confident we can make real progress towards our targets and deliver on our promise to protect the Great Barrier Reef for future generations to enjoy."

Economist and peer review panel member John Rolfe said $8.2 billion was lower than the figures discussed in a draft report.

"Those early figures did not take into account the already achieved reductions in pollutants from 2009 to 2013," he said.

"The modelling now gives a more accurate estimate of what it would cost to deliver the targets using the knowledge and technology we have available today."

Dr Miles also said the government had agreed in principle to 10 recommendations from the taskforce including to review the reef water quality targets, better communicate how everyone could improve reef water quality, use incentives to drive water quality improvements, pursue targeted regulatory approaches, develop a strategic investment plan and simplify and strengthen governance arrangements.