Parks Australia has today announced that the recent closures to Booderee, Kakadu and Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Parks, and the Australian National Botanic Gardens will be extended.

“The health and wellbeing of visitors, staff, and local communities continues to be our first priority. Our national parks and botanic gardens are treasured places for both locals and visitors alike, however, this is the right decision to make,” said Director of National Parks, Dr James Findlay.

“The decision to enact these extensions has been made in consultation with key stakeholders for each site. We are continuing to work with Traditional Owners represented by the joint Boards of Management, Central Land Council, Northern Land Councils, and the Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community Council, to make choices for the good of our communities.

“We will continue to monitor the advice of medical authorities and the government. Australia is working hard to protect its people, and the situation is changing on a daily basis. We will keep visitors updated about further changes.”

The extensions will continue as follows:

• Booderee National Park, Jervis Bay Territory, until 30 April 2020
• Kakadu and Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Parks, Northern Territory, until 11.59 pm 18 June 2020, in line with measures enacted under the Biosecurity Act.
• Australian National Botanic Gardens, Canberra, until 18 June 2020.

These closure dates reflect individual requirements following consultation for each site.

At Booderee National Park, camping remains cancelled until 30 April 2020, and no forward bookings will be taken until further notice.

Key operational staff will continue with vital work to maintain these significant protected natural and cultural environments. Staff are continuing recommended hygiene practices and practicing social distancing while performing their tasks, and cleaning measures have been increased.

Parks Australia will continue to enable access to Booderee, Kakadu and Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park for residents of the park and surrounding Aboriginal communities, essential services, and those working in the community.