Northern Territory Government launches 30-year masterplan for its parks

Mindful that its parks attract millions of visitors each and of the need to maintain them into the future, the Northern Territory Government is to develop a new Masterplan to provide a clear vision for the future of its parks and reserves from 2022 - 2052.

With preserving the Territory’s natural landscapes and cultural values a key focus of the Masterplan, the Northern Territory Government expects it to map out ways to enhance visitor enjoyment and community engagement, as well as exploring new business and economic opportunities.

The Territory Economic Reconstruction’s recent final report recognises the Northern Territory’s parks as the backbone of its tourism industry, and a key component for the Territory’s economic comeback.

Recommending implementing a 10 year plan to further activate the Territory parks estate, the Masterplan will build upon this, and provide a clear pathway for the future management of Territory parks and reserves for the next three decades.

Feedback from Territorians is encouraged, with a discussion paper to gather information about what locals want from their parks, and how the Northern Territory Government Government can work to meet these aspirations.

Commenting on the Masterplan, Northern Territory Minister for Parks and Rangers, Selena Uibo stated “Territorians love getting out and about in our many parks and reserves - and this is what makes our lifestyle so unique.

“It is important for the Territory’s future that we protect and preserve our parks, which are home to more than 65,000 years of cultural heritage.

“This Masterplan will allow us to conserve and protect our pristine environments, while building upon our tourism strengths, and exploring new opportunities for economic development.

“I encourage Territorians to share their thoughts on this important project.”

The Territory’s protected area estate encompasses 85 parks, reserves and other areas managed for conservation.

On average, there are around 3.5 million visits to these areas annually. 

A draft Masterplan will be released in November, with the final publication due for July 2022.

Image: The Northern Territory’s Litchfield National Park.