Efforts to restore shellfish reefs and saltmarshes are vital to the health of Australia's bays and estuaries, and they rely on the support of governments, businesses and the community. Hub research has developed the knowledge base and fostered the participation required to accelerate coastal habitat restoration. We have reviewed the history, status and economic value of Australia's shellfish reefs and saltmarshes, established national networks, and shown how restoration aligns with national policies for conservation.