Royal National Park, Heathcote National Park and Garawarra State Conservation Area draft amendment to plan of management

The National Parks and Wildlife Service is seeking public submissions on a draft amendment to the plan of management for Royal and Heathcote national parks and Garawarra State Conservation Area. By making a submission on the draft amendment, members of the community can have a say in the future management of these parks.

Plans of management explained

Parks and reserves established under the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 need to have a plan of management. The plan includes information on important park values and provides directions for future management.

Once the plan is adopted, no management operations can be undertaken in the park unless they are consistent with the plan.

Plans of management may be amended to support changes to park management or proposed works.

Reasons for amendment

An amendment to the 2022 plan of management is needed to makes changes to accommodation options for the Great Southern Walk and reflect track changes to support visitor outcomes including safety.

The draft amendment includes:

• a proposal to enable hard-roofed/hiker hut accommodation at Garawarra Farm and to remove it as a permissible activity at Garie Beach
• updated maps to reflect track realignments and recent additions to the parks.

The draft amendment does not propose changes to the management of Heathcote National Park or Garawarra State Conservation Area.

Finalising the plan

After the public exhibition period ends, the Greater Sydney Regional Advisory Committee will review this draft amendment and all submissions. The committee may provide advice to the Minister for the Environment.

The Minister considers the amendment, submissions and advice, makes any necessary changes and decides whether to adopt the amendment under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974.

If adopted by the Minister, the plan of management will be updated to reflect the amended text. All operations undertaken in the parks must be consistent with the amended plan of management.

Have your say

Submissions must be lodged before 5:00 pm on 20 February 2026. 

You can provide your written submission in any of the following ways:

• Use the online submission form below.
• Email your submission to  [email protected].
• Post your submission to –
  Manager, NPWS Planning and Assessment
  Locked Bag 5022
  Parramatta NSW 2124.

Our response to your submission will be based on the merits of the ideas and issues you raise rather than how many submissions make similar points. Submissions are most effective when we understand your ideas and the outcomes you want for park management.

Some suggestions to help you write your submissions are:

• write clearly and be specific about the issues that concern you
• note which part or section of the document your comments relate to
• give reasoning that supports your points – this makes it easier for us to understand and consider your ideas
• tell us exactly what you agree or disagree with and explain why
• if you can, suggest solutions or other ways to manage the issue.