TOURISM CASH SPLASH
● Feds throw millions at Uluru-Kata Tjuta and Kakadu National Parks
● Unofficial NT tourism campaign kicks off
HUNDREDS of millions of dollars will be poured into Australia’s national parks, including into Kakadu and Uluru-Kata Tjuta, to entice holiday-makers who would usually spend up big overseas.
As the Territory’s borders prepare to reopen this Friday, and other states begin to open, the Morrison government will inject $233 million to upgrade campsites, walking tracks, lookouts and boat ramps at regional tourism hot spots.
The multi-million funding boost is also expected to generate more than 1000 jobs in regional Australia.
With the Northern Territory reopening its borders to Australians – except Victorians – this week, the federal government will pour millions of dollars into the Uluru-Kata Tjuta and Kakadu National Parks.
The money will see two cultural centres upgraded and improve walking tracks, staff housing as well as fuel and water storage facilities.
A new visitors centre will also be built at Mary River, home to some of Kakadu’s most picturesque plunge pools and waterfalls.
Voyages Indigenous Tourism chief executive Grant Hunt said the funding “could not have come at a better time”.
“In particular, renewal of the cultural centre, the cultural heart of the national park, is great news for visitors and for the Anangu artists and businesses who base themselves there,” he said.
More than $50 million will also go towards improving essential services, including power and water, for the Mutitjulu community.
Environment Minister Sussan Ley said the new infrastructure would mean more tourism and more jobs for Australians in regional and remote Australia.
“This is an unprecedented funding injection for Parks Australia that will help attract more visitors while providing jobs, improved accommodation and better facilities for staff and Traditional Owners,” Ms Ley said.
The new funding is on top of the $216 million already announced for Kakadu upgrades, and separate to the Cahills Crossing viewing platform upgrade announced in the NT News this week.
“These parks are the greatest showcase of our unique natural environment – from the red rocks of the top end to the crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches in Booderee – the world adores the Australian landscape because of these icons,” Ms Ley said.
The announcement includes funding for parks in NSW, the ACT and Christmas Island as well.