The strategy will set out the long‑term direction and priorities for the protection, management and use of Parks Victoria managed land.
It will outline how the management and resourcing of Victoria’s parks will change and adapt over time and will be used to guide planning and decision-making.
“Parks Victoria is committed to ensuring parks are healthy and resilient for current and future generations,”
“This is the first time Parks Victoria has embarked on developing a Land Management Strategy which will guide Park Management Plans, Conservation Actions Plans, Visitor Plans and a number of other specialised planning documents.” Chief Operating Officer, Parks Victoria Simon Talbot said.
“We are seeking input and involvement from our partners, staff and stakeholders is a key part of developing the Strategy.
“This is an important opportunity to contribute your views and help inform the long-term future of Victoria’s natural landscapes.”
Development of the Strategy aims to involve Parks Victoria employees, Traditional Owners, key stakeholders and the broader public.
People can share their input on the draft Aspiration Statement and Guiding Principles that will form the basis of the Land Management Strategy through an Engage Victoria online survey.
Directed by the Parks Victoria Act (2018), Parks Victoria commenced developing the foundations of the strategy in early 2019 and it will be completed by the end of 2020.
The strategy themes include protecting natural and cultural values, connecting with community and preparing for the future.
It will be used to respond to key challenges - including climate change, population growth, changing community needs, increased visitation, invasive pest species and accessibility requirements.
The strategy will cover all of the Parks Victoria estate; of more than 3,000 land and marine parks and reserves making up 18 per cent of Victoria’s landmass, 75 per cent of Victoria’s wetlands and 70 per cent of Victoria’s coastline.
The area is home to more than 4,300 native plants and around 1,000 native animal species and attracts more than 100 million visits every year.
People can provide feedback online until Sunday, September 29 at: https://engage.vic.gov.au/lms.
For more information, members of the community can contact: parkstrategymailbox@parks.vic.gov.au.
