NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service has received a significant funding boost to upgrade facilities, supporting jobs and improving access to the state's national parks.
As part of the NSW Government's Economic Recovery Strategy an additional $91.5 million will be invested into shovel-ready projects in our national parks in a significant boost to our nature-based tourism industry.
Treasurer and Environment Minister Matt Kean said this investment will support jobs by creating better facilities – such as walking trails and family-friendly amenities – across the State's vast network of national parks.
"From Western Sydney to the Far West of New South Wales, families are flocking to national parks and we want to make sure facilities are up to scratch and able to meet this increased need," Mr Kean said.
"Before COVID we had more than 60 million visits every year, national parks were already a key driver of the visitor economy, generating $18 billion in economic activity and supporting over 74,000 jobs.
"Since COVID visitation levels have skyrocketed, highlighting the role parks play in supporting the physical and mental health of the community. Put simply – national parks are good for the soul."
This funding is part of the largest ever investment in national park visitor infrastructure, enhancing our natural environment and supporting regional economies with over $14 million will be invested in critical conservation projects.
Visitor infrastructure projects include:
- $3.45 million upgrade to the elevated rainforest boardwalk in Budderoo National Park
- $3 million in visitor precincts including in Georges River National Park
- $3 million for better visitor infrastructure at Ebor Falls in Guy Fawkes River National Park
- $1.5 million to improve public roads access to the Royal coastline in Royal National Park
- $795,000 for short stay accommodation at Kinchega and Paroo Darling national parks in the Far West
- $600,000 for enhancements to the mountain bike track network at Glenrock State Conservation Area.
