Key Points:
A strong legislative framework which balances investment in
conservation and park management with the need for fundamental
tourism infrastructure is needed.
National parks are created to preserve our natural capital for
the future, but that shouldn't preclude us from enjoying
them now. However, some conservation groups believe national parks
should be virtually off-limits to all but hard-core bushwalking
enthusiasts. This attitude effectively excludes the vast majority
of the population who want to experience the great outdoors, but
don't have the desire or the wherewithal to trek or
camp.
Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF) has been promoting a
partnership between industry and national parks agencies around the
nation since signing a Sustainable Tourism Protocol with the
Australian Conservation Foundation in August 2004. However, this
remains a contentious subject involving complex legal and political
issues and requiring a legislative framework that puts
