National Reserve System
The National Reserve System is Australia's network of protected areas, conserving examples of our natural landscapes and native plants and animals for future generations. Based on a scientific framework, it is the nation's natural safety net against our biggest environmental challenges.
The reserve system includes more than 9,000 protected areas covering more than 13 per cent of the country. It is made up Commonwealth, state and territory reserves, Indigenous lands and protected areas run by non-profit conservation organisations, through to ecosystems protected by farmers on their private working properties.
News: Huge new conservation reserve for South Australia
4 June 2010
On the eve of World Environment Day, Environment Protection Minister Peter Garrett launched Witchelina reserve. At more than 4,200 square kilometres, it is the largest property ever purchased for the National Reserve System through Caring for our Country.
Witchelina reserve | Media Release | See more news
About the National Reserve System
Building the National Reserve System is one of six national priorities under the Australian Government's Caring for our Country environmental initiative. The National Reserve System is underpinned by a scientific framework.
About the system | News | Science, maps and data | The Caring for our Country initiative
Funding and getting involved
The National Reserve System is one of the world's great conservation partnerships. Under Caring for our Country, the Australian Government has committed $180 million to build the National Reserve System over five years.
Applications for funding 2010-2011 have now closed.