New parks and park additions
In South Australia, DEW currently manages 390 national parks, conservation parks,regional reserves, conservation reserves, game reserves, recreation parks, and wilderness protection areas.
We are continually assessing and acquiring new land to add to South Australia's reserve system under the National Reserve System (NRS) Program. Many of these new parks have been purchased with the assistance of grants and donations. All additions are carefully targeted to improve the long-term sustainability of South Australia’s environment.
See the summary of protected areas in South Australia.
Developing South Australia’s Land-based Protected and Conserved Area Strategy 2025
The department has been working closely with the Parks and Wilderness Council and other key stakeholders to develop South Australia’s Land-based Protected and Conserved Area Strategy. This strategy will drive the expansion and enhancement of South Australia’s protected and conserved areas, so that biodiversity can thrive and places of special value are protected.
As part of this process, the department is seeking feedback on the draft strategy, to ensure a range of ideas and interests are considered in the final strategy document. Visit South Australia’s Land-Based Protected and Conserved Area Strategy | YourSAy to have your say and contribute. The consultation is open until 31 August 2025.
National Reserve System (NRS) Program
The National Reserve System (NRS) represents the collective efforts of the states, territories, Commonwealth and non-government organisations to achieve an Australian protected area system.
The NRS program was established in 1996 and provides funding, initially through the Natural Heritage Trust, presently via Caring for our Country. This funding assists with the purchase and establishment of protected areas. The goal of the NRS is to establish a comprehensive, adequate and representative reserve system of protected areas which will contribute to the conservation of Australia's native biodiversity.
For more information regarding the National Reserve System visit the Environment Australia website.
