A new era for our parks – Parks 2025 is a collection of investment initiatives designed to help build the capacity of parks across our state to conserve our natural landscapes and wildlife, boost the state economy and strengthen local communities.This investment at a statewide level will also help build resilience for nature-based tourism and broaden the attraction of South Australia to visitors from around the globe. In addition to initiatives outlined in the Parks 2025 brochure, as part of Parks 2025 and in response to bushfires, projects on Kangaroo Island have been brought forward
Investment in regional parks has a direct impact on local economies – most immediately through procurement of local materials and labour. The flow-on effects – through increased visitation and related spending – can be many times greater. All of this helps create and sustain regional jobs.
Parks 2025 will take a similar approach in key locations across the state. Working closely with the industry and tapping into its market knowledge and experiences will see our money go further with greater impact. A central plank of Parks 2025 will be to connect experiences thematically, within particular geographies or precincts, to ensure visitor experiences are compelling, diverse, sustainable and immersive. We want to create destinations that attract people to stay longer and spend more. As part of this, we will also seek to identify opportunities to activate heritage sites. A major emphasis will be placed on identifying the infrastructure required in regional areas to stimulate private sector investment in, and the operation of, guest services, including food, beverage, accommodation, tours and other value-added experiences.