VISITORS to some of the Hunter and MidCoast region’s most popular national parks could benefit from improved facilities and infrastructure under a new $130 million funding commitment announced in the NSW Budget.
The NSW Government says the funding will be used to upgrade and maintain national park infrastructure across the state, including walking tracks, campgrounds, picnic areas, visitor amenities, lookouts, roads and visitor centres.
For residents of Port Stephens, the Myall Coast, Dungog and Gloucester, the investment could help support visitor experiences at popular destinations including Myall Lakes National Park, Barrington Tops National Park, Tomaree National Park and other parks that attract thousands of visitors each year.
The funding will also be directed towards repairing and strengthening infrastructure damaged by floods, storms and landslips, an issue familiar to many regional communities following several years of severe weather events.
According to the government, NSW’s network of around 900 national parks and reserves recorded more than 65 million visits during the past year, highlighting the growing popularity of nature-based recreation and affordable outdoor holidays.
National parks play an important role in the regional visitor economy, drawing tourists to local towns and supporting accommodation providers, cafes, tour operators and other small businesses.
The government says the investment forms part of a broader strategy to improve visitor experiences while protecting natural assets and supporting regional tourism growth.
Environment Minister Penny Sharpe said the funding would help ensure parks remained safe, accessible and enjoyable for visitors.
“NSW national parks are booming and it’s easy to see why. They are some of the most beautiful, accessible and affordable places for families to spend time together,” Ms Sharpe said.
She said the investment would help deliver the facilities visitors want while ensuring parks remain attractive destinations for future generations.
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