South Australia launches new National Parks and Wildlife Service

The South Australian Government has relaunched the newly branded National Parks and Wildlife Service South Australia at a community event at Belair.

South Australian Premier Steven Marshall said the change is about adopting a back-to-basics approach to the environment noting “the National Parks and Wildlife Service is about having boots on the ground to look after the state’s parks and wildlife.”

“South Australia has some of the best natural landscapes in the world and our government has renewed focus on building environmentally sustainable recreation areas for all South Australian families and communities to enjoy.

“This is highlighted by our recently delivered State Budget which has an $11.8 million commitment to breathe new life into South Australia’s parks and improve nature-based tourism.

Premier Marshall added "by investing more money in our parks we will make these natural environments more accessible for everyday South Australians and tourists alike.

“It’s fantastic to be able to officially launch the new service at a community event in the state’s first national park here at Belair.”

South Australian Minister for Environment and Water David Speirs said the change is about committed to increasing ranger numbers by 20% by 2021, stating “18 new rangers have been appointed since March, 2018, bringing the total to 103 across the state.

“On top of more rangers on the ground, the National Parks and Wildlife Service is about a focus on the management and care of South Australia’s wildlife.

“It is also about more community events in parks, the rolling out of a 100-person volunteer ranger program and improvements to park facilities.

“Together these initiatives will not only enhance our environment but will improve social wellbeing by encouraging more people to get outside and enjoy what our state has to offer.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service is a division in the Department for Environment and Water.

Image shows the Belair National Park.