Northern Territory to introduce entry fees to most parks
The Northern Territory Government is introducing entry fees for most parks across the region, rolling out in April 2023.
By Steven Hill,
March 8, 2023
Changes to come in April 2023
Tourists can expect to pay a little more to visit the Northern Territory starting the 3rd of April 2023. Why? Well, that’s when the Northern Territory Government is introducing entry fees for most parks across the region.
The new pay-to-visit system 50 of the 85 parks, reserves and protected areas in the territory. These include the popular hot springs at Elsey National Park, Nitmiluk National Park, the Devils Marbles Conservation Reserve, Karlu Karlu, and the Shoal Bay Coastal Reserve. Interstate and international visitors will be required to purchase a Parks Pass to enter these sites. NT residents will be exempt.
Why are these changes happening?
These new fees are being implemented to help safeguard and enhance the region’s natural wonders for future generations.
Parks and Wildlife executive director Sally Egan said revenue from fees would be invested into the “protection, maintenance and safety of our parks and the creation of new visitor experiences.”
How much is a Parks Pass?
The price of a Parks Pass depends on how long you’re visiting a particular park or reserve, and how many people are in your group.
For individual adults, a single-day Parks Pass will set you back $10, and $5 for children. Families will have to fork over $25. A two-week Parks Pass costs adults $30, kids $15 and $75 for the family. There is also an “open pass” available ($60 for an individual adult, $30 for children and $150 for families) which doesn’t have a specific timeframe.
You may also have to pay some additional fees for camping, and for some of the region’s longer, more iconic walks, such as the Jatbula and Larapinta trails.
The good news for Northern Territory residents is they won’t be required to pay for entry to their parks.
How do I get a Parks Pass?
You can purchase your Parks Pass through the Northern Territory’s new online booking system. There you can buy your Parks Pass, and book campsites or walks.
Once you decide on which park or reserve in the NT you want to visit, you’ll need to create an account in the booking system using a valid email address. You’ll also need a credit card or Parks and Wildlife gift card to pay for your pass, site and/or walks.
Once your booking is complete, they’ll email you a confirmation, park information and a camping tag to display on your vehicle or tent.
No internet service? You can also call the Parks and Wildlife customer service team at 1300 281 121.
