After nearly six years behind locked gates, one of the most iconic swimming holes in Kakadu is set to reopen. But with it comes fresh debate about who controls access to some of Australia’s best-known public places, and who’s footing the bill.
Gunlom Falls, known for its natural infinity pool and panoramic views, has been closed since 2019. That closure followed a serious misstep by Parks Australia, who constructed a walking track through a sacred men’s site. The fallout was big. A $200,000 fine and fractured relationships between Traditional Owners and the federal government.
Now, the government and Traditional Owners have signed a new lease agreement, and Gunlom is expected to welcome travellers again in May.
New Deal, Old Questions
Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek announced the new deal during a visit to Jabiru. She described it as a reset. A way to return control to Traditional Owners and invest in the park’s future. The agreement includes an economic development fund controlled by local Indigenous groups, who’ll decide how the money is spent.
The government has committed $55.2 million over four years to Kakadu, Uluru-Kata Tjuta, and Booderee national parks. That’s on top of the $250 million promised last year.
On paper, it sounds like progress. But many in the 4X4 and touring community are asking a different question: if Kakadu is public land, why are taxpayers being asked to pay for it again?
Taxpayer Funding, Restricted Access
Over the years, 4X4ers have seen more permits, more red tape, and more closures in places once freely accessible. And while joint management between Traditional Owners and Parks Australia is the official setup, the outcome often feels far from “joint.”
Several key attractions have remained closed for years. Maintenance has slipped. Rangers and local voices have raised concerns about weed control, feral animal impacts, and failing infrastructure. Yet, millions are being poured into management arrangements and political repair work.
Tourism operators and outback travellers are watching closely. Many support cultural preservation and respect Indigenous ownership. But there’s growing frustration around accountability. Who’s managing the park? Where is the money going? And when do we, the public, get to benefit from the investment?
A Path Forward Or a Slippery Slope?
There’s no question Kakadu is a special place. Its cultural importance and natural beauty are unmatched. But public parks should serve all Australians. That includes the people who tour them, maintain them, and fund them through taxes.
The reopening of Gunlom is a win. But it’s also a chance to reassess the future of park access across Australia. Will the new agreement improve access and infrastructure, or will it lead to more closures and confusion?
4WDers, campers, and outback travellers have always been willing to do their part. We buy the park passes, fill the fuel tanks, and spend in the small towns. But we deserve clarity. If access is changing, the reasons should be clear, and the outcomes should benefit everyone.
The Bottom Line
Gunlom is back. Twin Falls is on its way. Kakadu is finally getting some attention, and serious funding. But the public’s patience isn’t endless. If we’re heading toward more restrictive access and higher costs, the government and Parks Australia owe it to travellers to be honest about that.
Respect for Traditional Owners and access for all Australians don’t need to be opposing goals. But it’ll take more than announcements and funding promises to find the right balance.
