If you’re planning to visit the Northern Territory this year, you may have to pay to visit its national parks.
From April 2023, tourists visiting many of the NT’s most breathtaking sites will need to purchase a Parks Pass or pay an entry fee.
NT government minister Selena Uibo said the revenue from entry fees would be vital to protecting the region’s natural wonders.
“It is imperative that we are able to care for, maintain and improve our parks. Camping and walking fees for Territory parks have not been increased in more than 20 years, and increasing fees will help to generate some of the funds required to support our parks,” Ms Uibo said.
“The revenue from fees that will flow to traditional owners in 33 of our parks will provide the opportunity to create jobs on country and develop Aboriginal tourism opportunities.
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“These changes to our parks will protect our spectacular natural landscapes, whilst creating new opportunities to enhance visitor experiences and attract tourists from across the country and the globe.”
The Parks Pass will cost families $25 per day, $75 for two weeks or $150 for an ‘open pass’. Locals will be exempt, but any guests visiting with them will need to purchase a pass.
Read: Top 10 things to do in the Northern Territory
The Litchfield, Djukbinj and Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) National Parks are among 50 sites that will require an entry fee.
The NT Department of Environment, Parks and Water Security said “options are still being explored” for an easy way for locals to prove Territorian residency and gain free entry.
Park passes are already in place at Uluru and Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, both managed by the federal government.
Travellers will be able to book passes in advance via the NT government’s online booking system.
What do you think of national parks implementing entry fees? Why not share your thoughts in the comments section below?
It is moves like this that make holidaying in Australia so expensive. A trip to the NT and Uluru is already so expensive I know many people who simply will not go because of the costs involved. If the idea is to curb visitor numbers, then this is the best way to do it.
Hi, when my wife and I planned our caravan trip around Australia 2 years ago, I commented on Facebook, do it now, in 2 years it will be too late.you will no longer be able to travel around the country you were born in and afford it, no body believed it.
Our government has given millions of acres freehold back to the aboriginal community.and the first they will do is to place fees on visiting. The national parks are part of the rip off, even though they already receive government funding. Wake up Australia you are being exploited.
The Voice hasn’t even been voted on and already the rip off begins! Let’s hope the traditional owners spend it wisely?! Once again its the taxpayers and retirees that have to pay while the government does nothing; pity some of the 33 billion per annum can’t be put to better use.