Leading scientist calls for Great Barrier Reef coral bleaching report to be released before election

We're not supposed to live in a secret society,' expert says after agency delays publishing maps of damage

• Follow our Australia news live blog for the latest updates
• Get our free news app; get our morning email briefing

One of the world's leading coral reef scientists has called on the agency responsible for managing the Great Barrier Reef to release maps showing the extent of coral bleaching, after a key report was delayed with no reason given.

Aerial surveys of the sixth mass bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef were completed in March and are yet to be released. Previous events have been published within two weeks of completion.

Sign up to receive an email with the top stories from Guardian Australia every morning