This survey is another opportunity for members of the community to be able to have their say on the future management of the proposed Great Koala National Park. NPWS want to learn what you value about the State forests and current park reserves within the Great Koala National Park footprint, how you use these areas for recreational purposes and/or other activities, and what your vision and aspirations are for a future Great Koala National Park.

During this pre-establishment phase, we cannot make any definitive commitments. However, your opinions are valued, and your ideas will be considered and used to help shape and inform future park management decisions including reserve categories.

Following the survey, the outcomes will be shared by NPWS in a ‘what we heard’ report which will be made publicly available.

Your participation is welcomed and appreciated. NPWS thanks you for your interest in the proposed Great Koala National Park.

There are no changes to recreational uses in State forests during the temporary timber harvesting moratorium. A large number of recreational activities are permitted in national parks across the state, and many will be accommodated in the Great Koala National Park.

NPWS recognise the importance of natural areas including the national park estate as a place for the community to connect with nature and undertake outdoor recreation and other activities that are beneficial for health and wellbeing.

The National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 is a key piece of legislation in NSW aimed at conserving the natural and cultural heritage of the state, managing national parks and protecting wildlife.

Permissible activities within NSW national parks are legislated under the NPW Act. NPWS has guidelines and policies in place that aim to balance recreational opportunities with the protection of park values and deliver economic benefits to regional communities. For more information about NPWS park activities visit: NPWS Park activities | Park management | Environment and Heritage

There are different categories of protected areas which guide the management of each area according to its different natural, cultural and social values (not all of the below will apply to the Great Koala National Park).

• National Parks
• Nature Reserves
• Regional Parks
• State Conservation Areas
• Aboriginal Areas
• Historic Sites
• Karst Conservation Reserve

For more information about the types of protected areas in NSW, visit the NPWS website: Types of NSW national parks | NSW National Parks.

The Great Koala National Park is an umbrella term that will be used to refer to the entire area within the proposed boundary. Within this footprint, there will be a range of different reserve types.

Management decisions that will inform reserve types for the proposed Great Koala National Park will be determined following further consultation with Aboriginal custodians, special interest groups and the broader community.

There is a temporary moratorium on timber harvesting allowing time for the NSW Government to undertake the work required to register a carbon project and then put a Bill to Parliament to reserve the Great Koala National Park under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. Subject to progress on these matters, the Government expects to introduce legislation to establish the Great Koala National Park in late 2026.

Forestry Corporation of NSW (FCNSW) continues to be the land manager for this area during the moratorium and will continue to carry out activities like road maintenance and fire management.

Hardwood plantations are not subject to the moratorium. Private Native Forestry is still permitted with appropriate approvals from Local Land Services.

If you would like further information about the Great Koala National Park, please email: gknp@environment.nsw.gov.au

If you have not already registered to receive updates, you can do so on the project webpage: Great Koala National Park | Establishing new parks | Environment and Heritage.