Strategy for Protected and Conserved Land Areas in South Australia
DEW has worked with the Parks and Wilderness Council to develop a Strategy for Protected and Conserved Land Areas in South Australia.
The strategy can be read in its entirety here, and is summarised in the strategy on a page.
How will this strategy be used?
The document provides strategic direction to the government and conservation partners, including First Nations groups, landholders, environmental organisations and philanthropic organisations. It will be used to drive the strategic expansion and enhancement of South Australia’s protected and conserved areas, so that biodiversity can thrive, and that places of special value are protected.
How was this strategy developed?
This strategy was developed in partnership with the Parks and Wilderness Council, using the latest scientific findings, and shaped by subject matter experts and the South Australian community.
Using the best available science
DEW used four conservation measures to survey South Australia's land, to understand how well it is protected and where we should focus future efforts. Data was assessed using long-term existing methods, plus new methods developed specifically for this strategy. Five maps were produced from the outcomes, showing different conservation priorities including planning for the impacts of climate change.
These scientific assessments will guide more strategic additions to our protected areas, helping to achieve stronger biodiversity and conservation outcomes.
All the scientific data gathered for the report is publicly available, enabling coordination of efforts between government and conservation partners.
Want to find out more about these assessments? Comprehensive, Adequate and Representative Reserve System (CARRS) outcomes approach
Wilderness assessment
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Leveraging sector expertise
DEW held three workshops in 2024 to co-design key elements of the draft strategy. Workshop attendees included Landscape Boards, Friends of Parks and Nature, Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation, various eNGOs and private conservation partners, and internal DEW subject matter experts. Their knowledge and expertise played a vital role in shaping the direction and content of this strategy.
Consulting the broader community
A draft strategy was released for public consultation in August 2025, to ensure the community’s opinions, needs and ideas were considered and included. Community feedback was used in the development of the final strategy. For more information, visit South Australia’s Land-Based Protected and Conserved Area Strategy | YourSAy or view the YourSAy Consultation Report.
