Great Koala National Park: A Win for Conservation, Communities, and Outdoor Adventure
- Outdoors NSW & ACT
- 7 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
The long-anticipated Great Koala National Park has officially been given the green light by the NSW Government – a landmark step forward for both conservation and regional communities. Outdoors NSW & ACT (ONSWACT) is celebrating the announcement, which not only protects critical habitat but also unlocks enormous potential for outdoor recreation and tourism across the Mid North Coast.
Protecting Nature, Supporting Communities
Spanning 476,000 hectares, including 176,000 hectares of state forest, the new national park represents one of the most significant conservation outcomes in recent history. A moratorium on logging within the park’s boundaries takes effect immediately, supported by a “JobKeeper-style” transition package for timber workers impacted by the change.
But what makes this announcement particularly encouraging for the outdoor sector is the assurance that there will be no immediate change to existing licences or access arrangements in state forests. That means recreation providers, outdoor educators, and tourism operators can continue to deliver programs and adventures while long-term park management plans are developed.
A Boost for Adventure Tourism and Regional Economies
The NSW Government estimates the park will inject $163 million in tourism-led economic growth into the region. With $60 million dedicated to establishing the park and a further $6 million for tourism development, the Great Koala National Park is poised to become a premier destination, sitting alongside the Blue Mountains and other iconic landscapes.
For Outdoors NSW & ACT, this is a golden opportunity. The park is predicted to generate 85,000 extra visitor nights each year, driving demand for adventure experiences, guided outdoor education, and eco-tourism activities that connect people to nature.
Working Together on the Next Chapter
ONSWACT is ready to work hand-in-hand with the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS), Traditional Owners, and local communities as the park moves towards gazettal. Ensuring sustainable access, cultural respect, and vibrant tourism offerings will be key to balancing conservation with the growing demand for outdoor adventure.
As CEO Lori Modde explains:
“This is a landmark announcement for conservation, recreation, and regional economies. We celebrate the establishment of the Great Koala National Park and the opportunities it brings for more people to enjoy and learn from nature. We also appreciate the assurance that existing access and licensing remain unchanged—allowing our industry to continue serving communities while planning together for the park’s future.”
For the outdoor industry, the Great Koala National Park is more than a new protected area that will serve future generations and educate on the importance of conservation – it’s an opportunity for more school camps, guided walks, adventure tours and nature play, that get people outdoors for their health and wellbeing. The park has the potential to be a world-class backdrop for outdoor experiences.
Stay connected with ONSWACT as we work with government and community to shape the future of this exciting new destination.
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