$250 Million Boost Can Improve Conservation, Support Farmers and Open Up Parts of Australia Few Have Seen
MEDIA RELEASE
Today’s $250 million federal funding announcement for protected areas has the potential to expand public access to nature, strengthen conservation efforts, and bolster Australia’s ecotourism credentials ahead of the 2032 Olympic Games.
With less than 9% of Queensland protected—despite being the most biodiverse state—expanding protected areas should be a priority. This funding is an opportunity to showcase more of Australia while ensuring these areas are managed for conservation and sustainable recreation.
Protect Beautiful Queensland (PBQ)—a non-partisan alliance of conservation, land management, tourism, and recreation groups—is advocating for Queensland’s protected areas to double before the 2032 Games. Australia’s most naturally diverse state should take this opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the national pledge to conserve 30 percent of its land and waters by 2030.
By committing to park expansion, identifying priority areas, and strengthening ranger resources to keep them well-managed, healthy, and accessible, the Queensland Government can better position itself to secure its share of funding.
Quotes from PBQ Alliance Members:
Dom Courtny, Executive Officer of Outdoors Queensland:
“This is excellent news for hikers, mountain bikers, kayakers, and nature lovers. Expanding protected areas means more opportunities to experience some of Australia’s most spectacular landscapes.”
“Increasing protection is the first step, then ensuring the right facilities are in place will help more people access and appreciate these places while supporting a thriving ecotourism industry.”
Chris Norman, CEO of NRM Regions Queensland:
“Healthy water, soil, and land are at the heart of Australia’s future prosperity. Much of Queensland is privately owned or managed and farmers are often some of the best stewards of nature. A world-class protected area network must include support for landholders taking care of important ecosystems on private property.”
Terry Piper, Chief Operating Officer of Balkanu Cape York Development Corporation:
“We’ve seen how federal funding has delivered real results in Northern Australia, particularly through the Cape York Tenure Resolution Program. If the government is serious about returning land to Traditional Owners, boosting economic and tourism opportunities, and protecting cultural assets, this is where funding should be directed.”
About Protect Beautiful Queensland
Protect Beautiful Queensland (PBQ) is a non-partisan, evidence-based alliance providing decision-makers with policy and delivery solutions to support the protection of Queensland’s natural places.
