First look: $276 million Kakadu master plan revealed to restore Territory icon to its former glory

ECO-LODGES, a family holiday park and safari camps, new trails and viewing platforms are all just a small part of the $276 million vision to restore Kakadu National Park to its former glory and a must-visit destination. ALL THE DETAILS here

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ECO-LODGES, a family holiday park and safari camps, new mountain bike trails, new viewing platforms at the base of the Jim Jim Falls plunge pool and at Cahills Crossing are just part of the vision to breathe new life into tourism in Kakadu National Park.

They are among a suite of refreshing initiatives contained in the Kakadu Tourism Master Plan, which will be released today by Environment Minister Sussan Ley for public comment.

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Ms Ley said the master plan contained bold and creative ideas to support Indigenous employment and businesses, new and upgraded visitor infrastructure and opportunities for private investment in new accommodation.

The plan, central to the Federal Government’s $276 million spend in Kakadu over the next 10 years, has been developed in consultation with Traditional Owners.

The Kakadu Tourism Master Plan is set to transform the region. Picture: Supplied

It includes proposals for:

New visitor services hubs

A World Heritage Visitor Centre

Ecolodges, a family holiday park and safari camps

Adventure tourism, wellness retreats and luxury river cruises

Cultural Centre facilities

New mountain biking trails

Upgrades to viewing boardwalks, platforms and amenities at world-class sites Burrungkuy and Ubirr

New viewing platforms at the base of the Jim Jim Falls plunge pool and at Cahills Crossing

Upgrades to campgrounds including major upgrades to popular visitor sites Maguk and

Karnamarr, plus upgrades to facilities, roads and access to key sites

Greater connectivity to improve mobile coverage and provide WiFi services

An expanded major events calendar focusing on increasing cultural events.

The Kakadu Tourism Master Plan is set to transform the region. Picture: Supplied

“This is a landmark strategy to reinvigorate one of Australia’s national treasures and we welcome public comment,” Minister Ley said.

“This year’s budget also provides an additional $60 million for park improvements to create jobs and maximise domestic tourism as we invest in Australia’s COVID recovery.”

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Senator Sam McMahon said the plan underlined the importance of Kakadu on the national and world stage.

“Kakadu is an amazing place and it plays a key role in the local and national economy,” she said. Submissions close November 6.

The NT News first campaigned to “Save Kakadu” two years ago.