COVID-19 National: Business, Non-Profits – Commonwealth National Parks Support for Tourism (Fee Waivers)

This program aims to support the tourism industry through COVID-19 and to support businesses to rebuild their operations. It forms part of the Australian Government's $1 billion COVID-19 Relief and Recovery Fund which aims to support regions, communities and industry sectors that have been disproportionately affected by the Coronavirus crisis.

From 16 March to 31 December, 2020, the Australian Government is waiving up to $11.2 million in entry fees to the following national parks managed by Parks Australia:
- Booderee National Park
- Kakadu National Park
- Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

In addition, up to $772,000 is available to assist businesses operating in Commonwealth National Parks by providing:
- Temporary relief from licence fees and permit charges levied by the Director of National Parks for the period of 1 January 2020 to 31 March 2021. Aside from the immediate respite from some ongoing operating costs, this will also allow business to re-commence operations without having to pay for licences and permits.
- Rent relief to tenants of the Australian National Botanic Gardens in accordance with the Australian Government's Rent Relief Policy.

Commercial tourism businesses will still be required to hold a valid licence or permit to resume operations when the national parks re-open, however these fees will be waived through to 31 March 2021.

Parks Australia will contact all eligible operators with information on receiving their reimbursement.

Please refer to the website for more information.