South Australia is set to expand its network of national and conservation parks by nearly 725 hectares, enhancing both the protection of natural habitats and access for the public to experience the state’s unique attractions. This expansion, approximately the size of 450 Adelaide Ovals, includes notable extensions to Murray River National Park, Maize Island Conservation Park, and Sceale Bay Conservation Park, located in key regions such as the Riverland and Eyre Peninsula.
The increase in protected areas is designed to improve the management and conservation of ecosystems that support diverse biodiversity. These areas also include culturally significant and sensitive sites that are essential for preserving the region’s environmental heritage. The newly expanded parks will not only safeguard habitats for native wildlife but also provide enhanced recreational opportunities for visitors.
Murray River National Park, a popular site for outdoor activities and camping, offers visitors the chance to explore the floodplains of the River Murray. Maize Island Conservation Park holds historical significance, with remnants of one of the state’s earliest village settlements along the river. Sceale Bay Conservation Park plays a vital role in protecting several species of wading birds, including the Australian pied oystercatcher, Sanderling, and fairy tern, which are covered by international conservation agreements with Japan and China.
The expansion is supported by an additional $30 million in funding allocated in the 2024/25 State Budget, reinforcing the joint efforts of both state and federal governments to meet the goal of protecting 30 percent of Australia’s land and marine areas by 2030.
Currently, South Australia manages approximately 23 million hectares of national parks and wilderness protection areas, which constitute around 22 percent of the state’s landmass. These areas contribute significantly to the state’s economy, with research indicating that approximately $70 billion in economic activity and $11 billion in exports are linked to the state’s natural resources.
Susan Close MP, Deputy Premier and Minister for Climate, Environment and Water, emphasized the importance of this expansion in conserving threatened species and increasing public access to nature. “This expansion will provide enhanced protection for species such as the regent parrot, southern bell frog, and blue-faced honeyeater,” Close said. “South Australia’s national and conservation parks are home to a wealth of native flora and fauna, and they play a crucial role in ensuring these species remain sustainable for future generations.”
Close also noted the popularity of the parks, stating that seven out of 10 South Australians visit them annually. The state’s efforts to expand its parks align with a growing demand for eco-tourism and outdoor recreation, both from local residents and international visitors.
This strategic initiative aims not only to protect South Australia’s diverse wildlife but also to meet the rising interest in eco-tourism, ensuring that the state’s natural heritage remains preserved for future generations.
