Investing in intergenerational infrastructure for our national parks
12 November, 2020
Roger Jaensch MP
Minister for Environment and Parks
2020-21 Budget: Investing in intergenerational infrastructure for our national parks
The 2020-21 State Budget locks in over $80 million in funding across the Forward Estimates on projects across Tasmania to ensure our natural assets are protected for generations to come while providing world-class experiences for visitors and locals alike.
Across the Forward Estimates, this includes $10.3 million to continue our investment in iconic experiences as part of our Improved Statewide Visitor Infrastructure program and Maintenance Boost funding. This will future-proof our parks as visitation continues to recover and grow.
We are taking action to address wastewater and critical infrastructure issues at Freycinet National Park, with $8.4 million to fund the Sewerage Treatment Plant upgrade and a pipeline from the Wineglass Bay Trailhead to the treatment plant.
We are also protecting our natural areas from the threat of uncontrolled bushfires, with $2.1 million over four years to establish a ‘winch capable’ PWS fire crew ready to be deployed by helicopter to combat fires in remote areas before they become a threat to vulnerable natural areas, communities and infrastructure.
Other initiatives funded across the Forward Estimates in the 2020-21 State Budget include:
Almost $20 million to deliver Tasmania’s next iconic multi-day, hut-based experience at Tyndall Ranges on the West Coast;
- $610,000 to progress land management works at the Okines/Lewisham Foreshore to address the impacts of foreshore erosion;
- $40,000 each winter to provide ongoing funding for the delivery of ski patrol and emergency medical assistance to recreational skiers at Ben Lomond National Park and alpine area; and
- Continuing the successful Free Parks Pass for Seniors initiative that saw around 20,000 passes provided in the 2018 19 year, to the value of approximately $1.5 million.
Our national parks and reserves make a huge contribution to Tasmania’s identity and economy, particularly in regional areas, and the Budget is investing in these assets as we continue to rebuild a stronger Tasmania.