Parks Pass to be introduced in Northern Territory in 2023

Most Northern Territory parks and reserves will require all interstate and international visitors from April 2023, to have a Parks Pass. Territorians are exempt from requiring a Parks Pass.

Visitors will need to purchase their pass through the Online Booking System for entry to parks and reserves from 3rd April.

The Parks Pass will help protect, modernise and improve NT’s parks and reserves by providing valuable information about visitation to parks and reserves and through the generation of new revenue for their care, management and development.  

The NT Government manages 85 parks, reserves and protected areas across the Northern Territory with 33 of these areas formally joint managed with Aboriginal Traditional Owners.

A percentage of fees on jointly managed parks will be paid to governing land councils on behalf of Traditional Owners.

Further details about the Parks Pass, including the rates that apply to free and independent travellers and the parks and reserves that are included, can be found at Parks Pass | Department of Environment, Parks and Water Security.

NT Parks and Wildlife Executive Director Sally Egan notes “Our parks and reserves contribute greatly to our wonderful lifestyle and economy.

“The Parks Pass will be supported by the Online Booking System and provide an important revenue stream for the care of the Territory’s parks and reserves.

“Revenue from fees will be invested back into the protection, maintenance and safety of our parks, and the creation of new visitor experiences.”

“These changes mean our parks and reserves are maintained and developed for generations to come, so Territorians and visitors can continue to enjoy the amazing landscapes and native wildlife.

“All Territorians will continue to have free day access to Territory parks.

“Tourism Operators will have a further six months to adjust to the introduction of the Parks Pass with a moratorium in place until 31st October 2023.

“Tourism Operators will also purchase passes through the Online Booking System and Parks and Wildlife has committed to developing a process that is as simple as possible for operators.