$233m parks lifeline

AUSTRALIA’S national parks are set for a makeover, with $233m in federal funding being invested to lure families forced to holiday at home during the pandemic.

The move is expected to create more than 1000 jobs in regional and remote communities.

In the Northern Territory, Uluru-Kata Tjuta will receive $51m for major upgrades to its cultural centre, viewing platforms and walking tracks.

Millions will also be splashed at Kakadu National Park’s Aboriginal cultural centre and campgrounds, including better fresh water storage.

Roads will also be repaired, staff housing refreshed, fuel storage and supply facilities improved.

“New and improved infrastructure means more tourism, more jobs and better outcomes for Australians living in regional and remote areas, which is vital as we move through the economic challenges of COVID,” Environment Minister Sussan Ley said.

Holidaymakers heading to Jervis Bay in New South Wales, will benefit from a new visitor centre, campground amenities, and upgrades to Murrays Beach Boardwalk and a boat ramp planned at Booderee National Park.

The funding will enable a new viewing platform for bird watching at Christmas Island’s Margaret Knoll Lookout, and projects at the Australian National Botanic Gardens in Canberra.

Tourism Minister Simon Birmingham said more than half of all domestic overnight holidays made by Australians involved outdoor or naturebased activities. “We also shouldn’t underestimate the huge positive flow-on effects increased visitation to the parks could have on the surrounding regions,” he said.

“Every extra visitor has the potential to inject more tourism dollars into these regions by visiting other attractions, sleeping in local hotels and dining in local restaurants.”