{"id":"F2021L01354","name":"Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Management Plan 2021","slug":"uluru-kata-tjuta-national-park-management-plan-2021","collection":"legislative_instrument","jurisdiction":"commonwealth","status":"in_force","isInForce":true,"actNumber":null,"makingDate":null,"administeringDepartment":null,"currentVersion":{"id":102109,"registerId":"commonwealth-F2021L01354-current","compilationNumber":null,"startDate":"2026-04-03","status":"InForce","reasons":null,"registeredAt":null},"sections":[{"sectionNumber":"Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Board of Management’s v","sectionType":"subdivision","heading":"Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Board of Management’s vision and goals ii","content":"![](image.011.png)![](image.010.png)![](image.009.png)![](image.008.png)![](image.007.png)![](image.006.png)![](image.005.png)\n\n#### [Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Board of Management’s vision and goals ii](#_bookmark0)\n\n#### Foreword iii\n\n##### 1.1 [Short title 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.2 [Commencement and termination 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.3 [Planning process 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.4 [Values of the Park 13](#_bookmark11)\n\n##### 1.5 [IUCN category and zoning 16](#_bookmark15)\n\n##### 1.6 [Structure of this management plan 19](#_bookmark19)\n\n##### 2.1 [Board of Management 25](#_bookmark24)\n\n##### 2.2 [Work planning and implementation 34](#_bookmark34)\n\n##### 3.1 [Knowledge for managing country 39](#_bookmark38)\n\n##### 3.2 [Protecting and enriching culture and country 50](#_bookmark55)\n\n##### 3.3 [Assessment of proposals 60](#_bookmark67)\n\n##### 4.1 [Employment, education, training and other benefits 69](#_bookmark76)\n\n##### 4.2 [Muṯitjulu community 72](#_bookmark84)","sortOrder":0},{"sectionNumber":"Foreword iii","sectionType":"subdivision","heading":"Foreword iii","content":"#### Foreword iii","sortOrder":1},{"sectionNumber":"1.1","sectionType":"section","heading":"Short title 12","content":"![](image.011.png)![](image.010.png)![](image.009.png)![](image.008.png)![](image.007.png)![](image.006.png)![](image.005.png)\n\n#### [Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Board of Management’s vision and goals ii](#_bookmark0)\n\n#### Foreword iii\n\n##### 1.1 [Short title 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.2 [Commencement and termination 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.3 [Planning process 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.4 [Values of the Park 13](#_bookmark11)\n\n##### 1.5 [IUCN category and zoning 16](#_bookmark15)\n\n##### 1.6 [Structure of this management plan 19](#_bookmark19)\n\n##### 2.1 [Board of Management 25](#_bookmark24)\n\n##### 2.2 [Work planning and implementation 34](#_bookmark34)\n\n##### 3.1 [Knowledge for managing country 39](#_bookmark38)\n\n##### 3.2 [Protecting and enriching culture and country 50](#_bookmark55)\n\n##### 3.3 [Assessment of proposals 60](#_bookmark67)\n\n##### 4.1 [Employment, education, training and other benefits 69](#_bookmark76)\n\n##### 4.2 [Muṯitjulu community 72](#_bookmark84)","sortOrder":2},{"sectionNumber":"1.2","sectionType":"section","heading":"Commencement and termination 12","content":"![](image.011.png)![](image.010.png)![](image.009.png)![](image.008.png)![](image.007.png)![](image.006.png)![](image.005.png)\n\n#### [Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Board of Management’s vision and goals ii](#_bookmark0)\n\n#### Foreword iii\n\n##### 1.1 [Short title 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.2 [Commencement and termination 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.3 [Planning process 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.4 [Values of the Park 13](#_bookmark11)\n\n##### 1.5 [IUCN category and zoning 16](#_bookmark15)\n\n##### 1.6 [Structure of this management plan 19](#_bookmark19)\n\n##### 2.1 [Board of Management 25](#_bookmark24)\n\n##### 2.2 [Work planning and implementation 34](#_bookmark34)\n\n##### 3.1 [Knowledge for managing country 39](#_bookmark38)\n\n##### 3.2 [Protecting and enriching culture and country 50](#_bookmark55)\n\n##### 3.3 [Assessment of proposals 60](#_bookmark67)\n\n##### 4.1 [Employment, education, training and other benefits 69](#_bookmark76)\n\n##### 4.2 [Muṯitjulu community 72](#_bookmark84)","sortOrder":3},{"sectionNumber":"1.3","sectionType":"section","heading":"Planning process 12","content":"![](image.011.png)![](image.010.png)![](image.009.png)![](image.008.png)![](image.007.png)![](image.006.png)![](image.005.png)\n\n#### [Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Board of Management’s vision and goals ii](#_bookmark0)\n\n#### Foreword iii\n\n##### 1.1 [Short title 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.2 [Commencement and termination 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.3 [Planning process 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.4 [Values of the Park 13](#_bookmark11)\n\n##### 1.5 [IUCN category and zoning 16](#_bookmark15)\n\n##### 1.6 [Structure of this management plan 19](#_bookmark19)\n\n##### 2.1 [Board of Management 25](#_bookmark24)\n\n##### 2.2 [Work planning and implementation 34](#_bookmark34)\n\n##### 3.1 [Knowledge for managing country 39](#_bookmark38)\n\n##### 3.2 [Protecting and enriching culture and country 50](#_bookmark55)\n\n##### 3.3 [Assessment of proposals 60](#_bookmark67)\n\n##### 4.1 [Employment, education, training and other benefits 69](#_bookmark76)\n\n##### 4.2 [Muṯitjulu community 72](#_bookmark84)","sortOrder":4},{"sectionNumber":"1.4","sectionType":"section","heading":"Values of the Park 13","content":"![](image.011.png)![](image.010.png)![](image.009.png)![](image.008.png)![](image.007.png)![](image.006.png)![](image.005.png)\n\n#### [Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Board of Management’s vision and goals ii](#_bookmark0)\n\n#### Foreword iii\n\n##### 1.1 [Short title 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.2 [Commencement and termination 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.3 [Planning process 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.4 [Values of the Park 13](#_bookmark11)\n\n##### 1.5 [IUCN category and zoning 16](#_bookmark15)\n\n##### 1.6 [Structure of this management plan 19](#_bookmark19)\n\n##### 2.1 [Board of Management 25](#_bookmark24)\n\n##### 2.2 [Work planning and implementation 34](#_bookmark34)\n\n##### 3.1 [Knowledge for managing country 39](#_bookmark38)\n\n##### 3.2 [Protecting and enriching culture and country 50](#_bookmark55)\n\n##### 3.3 [Assessment of proposals 60](#_bookmark67)\n\n##### 4.1 [Employment, education, training and other benefits 69](#_bookmark76)\n\n##### 4.2 [Muṯitjulu community 72](#_bookmark84)","sortOrder":5},{"sectionNumber":"1.5","sectionType":"section","heading":"IUCN category and zoning 16","content":"![](image.011.png)![](image.010.png)![](image.009.png)![](image.008.png)![](image.007.png)![](image.006.png)![](image.005.png)\n\n#### [Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Board of Management’s vision and goals ii](#_bookmark0)\n\n#### Foreword iii\n\n##### 1.1 [Short title 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.2 [Commencement and termination 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.3 [Planning process 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.4 [Values of the Park 13](#_bookmark11)\n\n##### 1.5 [IUCN category and zoning 16](#_bookmark15)\n\n##### 1.6 [Structure of this management plan 19](#_bookmark19)\n\n##### 2.1 [Board of Management 25](#_bookmark24)\n\n##### 2.2 [Work planning and implementation 34](#_bookmark34)\n\n##### 3.1 [Knowledge for managing country 39](#_bookmark38)\n\n##### 3.2 [Protecting and enriching culture and country 50](#_bookmark55)\n\n##### 3.3 [Assessment of proposals 60](#_bookmark67)\n\n##### 4.1 [Employment, education, training and other benefits 69](#_bookmark76)\n\n##### 4.2 [Muṯitjulu community 72](#_bookmark84)","sortOrder":6},{"sectionNumber":"1.6","sectionType":"section","heading":"Structure of this management plan 19","content":"##### 1.6 [Structure of this management plan 19](#_bookmark19)","sortOrder":7},{"sectionNumber":"2.1","sectionType":"section","heading":"Board of Management 25","content":"![](image.011.png)![](image.010.png)![](image.009.png)![](image.008.png)![](image.007.png)![](image.006.png)![](image.005.png)\n\n#### [Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Board of Management’s vision and goals ii](#_bookmark0)\n\n#### Foreword iii\n\n##### 1.1 [Short title 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.2 [Commencement and termination 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.3 [Planning process 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.4 [Values of the Park 13](#_bookmark11)\n\n##### 1.5 [IUCN category and zoning 16](#_bookmark15)\n\n##### 1.6 [Structure of this management plan 19](#_bookmark19)\n\n##### 2.1 [Board of Management 25](#_bookmark24)\n\n##### 2.2 [Work planning and implementation 34](#_bookmark34)\n\n##### 3.1 [Knowledge for managing country 39](#_bookmark38)\n\n##### 3.2 [Protecting and enriching culture and country 50](#_bookmark55)\n\n##### 3.3 [Assessment of proposals 60](#_bookmark67)\n\n##### 4.1 [Employment, education, training and other benefits 69](#_bookmark76)\n\n##### 4.2 [Muṯitjulu community 72](#_bookmark84)","sortOrder":8},{"sectionNumber":"2.2","sectionType":"section","heading":"Work planning and implementation 34","content":"##### 2.2 [Work planning and implementation 34](#_bookmark34)","sortOrder":9},{"sectionNumber":"3.1","sectionType":"section","heading":"Knowledge for managing country 39","content":"![](image.011.png)![](image.010.png)![](image.009.png)![](image.008.png)![](image.007.png)![](image.006.png)![](image.005.png)\n\n#### [Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Board of Management’s vision and goals ii](#_bookmark0)\n\n#### Foreword iii\n\n##### 1.1 [Short title 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.2 [Commencement and termination 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.3 [Planning process 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.4 [Values of the Park 13](#_bookmark11)\n\n##### 1.5 [IUCN category and zoning 16](#_bookmark15)\n\n##### 1.6 [Structure of this management plan 19](#_bookmark19)\n\n##### 2.1 [Board of Management 25](#_bookmark24)\n\n##### 2.2 [Work planning and implementation 34](#_bookmark34)\n\n##### 3.1 [Knowledge for managing country 39](#_bookmark38)\n\n##### 3.2 [Protecting and enriching culture and country 50](#_bookmark55)\n\n##### 3.3 [Assessment of proposals 60](#_bookmark67)\n\n##### 4.1 [Employment, education, training and other benefits 69](#_bookmark76)\n\n##### 4.2 [Muṯitjulu community 72](#_bookmark84)","sortOrder":10},{"sectionNumber":"3.2","sectionType":"section","heading":"Protecting and enriching culture and country 50","content":"![](image.011.png)![](image.010.png)![](image.009.png)![](image.008.png)![](image.007.png)![](image.006.png)![](image.005.png)\n\n#### [Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Board of Management’s vision and goals ii](#_bookmark0)\n\n#### Foreword iii\n\n##### 1.1 [Short title 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.2 [Commencement and termination 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.3 [Planning process 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.4 [Values of the Park 13](#_bookmark11)\n\n##### 1.5 [IUCN category and zoning 16](#_bookmark15)\n\n##### 1.6 [Structure of this management plan 19](#_bookmark19)\n\n##### 2.1 [Board of Management 25](#_bookmark24)\n\n##### 2.2 [Work planning and implementation 34](#_bookmark34)\n\n##### 3.1 [Knowledge for managing country 39](#_bookmark38)\n\n##### 3.2 [Protecting and enriching culture and country 50](#_bookmark55)\n\n##### 3.3 [Assessment of proposals 60](#_bookmark67)\n\n##### 4.1 [Employment, education, training and other benefits 69](#_bookmark76)\n\n##### 4.2 [Muṯitjulu community 72](#_bookmark84)","sortOrder":11},{"sectionNumber":"3.3","sectionType":"section","heading":"Assessment of proposals 60","content":"##### 3.3 [Assessment of proposals 60](#_bookmark67)","sortOrder":12},{"sectionNumber":"4.1","sectionType":"section","heading":"Employment, education, training and other benefits 69","content":"![](image.011.png)![](image.010.png)![](image.009.png)![](image.008.png)![](image.007.png)![](image.006.png)![](image.005.png)\n\n#### [Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Board of Management’s vision and goals ii](#_bookmark0)\n\n#### Foreword iii\n\n##### 1.1 [Short title 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.2 [Commencement and termination 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.3 [Planning process 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.4 [Values of the Park 13](#_bookmark11)\n\n##### 1.5 [IUCN category and zoning 16](#_bookmark15)\n\n##### 1.6 [Structure of this management plan 19](#_bookmark19)\n\n##### 2.1 [Board of Management 25](#_bookmark24)\n\n##### 2.2 [Work planning and implementation 34](#_bookmark34)\n\n##### 3.1 [Knowledge for managing country 39](#_bookmark38)\n\n##### 3.2 [Protecting and enriching culture and country 50](#_bookmark55)\n\n##### 3.3 [Assessment of proposals 60](#_bookmark67)\n\n##### 4.1 [Employment, education, training and other benefits 69](#_bookmark76)\n\n##### 4.2 [Muṯitjulu community 72](#_bookmark84)","sortOrder":13},{"sectionNumber":"4.2","sectionType":"section","heading":"Muṯitjulu community 72","content":"![](image.011.png)![](image.010.png)![](image.009.png)![](image.008.png)![](image.007.png)![](image.006.png)![](image.005.png)\n\n#### [Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Board of Management’s vision and goals ii](#_bookmark0)\n\n#### Foreword iii\n\n##### 1.1 [Short title 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.2 [Commencement and termination 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.3 [Planning process 12](#_bookmark10)\n\n##### 1.4 [Values of the Park 13](#_bookmark11)\n\n##### 1.5 [IUCN category and zoning 16](#_bookmark15)\n\n##### 1.6 [Structure of this management plan 19](#_bookmark19)\n\n##### 2.1 [Board of Management 25](#_bookmark24)\n\n##### 2.2 [Work planning and implementation 34](#_bookmark34)\n\n##### 3.1 [Knowledge for managing country 39](#_bookmark38)\n\n##### 3.2 [Protecting and enriching culture and country 50](#_bookmark55)\n\n##### 3.3 [Assessment of proposals 60](#_bookmark67)\n\n##### 4.1 [Employment, education, training and other benefits 69](#_bookmark76)\n\n##### 4.2 [Muṯitjulu community 72](#_bookmark84)","sortOrder":14},{"sectionNumber":"Figure 10: Indigenous communities and ho","sectionType":"section","heading":"Figure 10: Indigenous communities and homelands in the lands surrounding the Park 43","content":"##### [Figure 10: Indigenous communities and homelands in the lands surrounding the Park 43](#_bookmark46)\n\n| TablesTable 1: | Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park Values Statement                                                              | 14  |\n| -------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | --- |\n| Table 2:       | Consultation requirements and decision-making process for action in the Park                                 | 32  |\n| Table 3:       | Introduced animal species at Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park and their effects on cultural and natural values | 54  |\n| Table 4:       | Impact assessment procedures                                                                                 | 61  |\n| Table 5:       | Impact assessment matters and considerations                                                                 | 64  |","sortOrder":15},{"sectionNumber":"Figure 1: Approximate present-day extent","sectionType":"section","heading":"Figure 1: Approximate present-day extent of Western Desert language speakers","content":"###### Figure 1: Approximate present-day extent of Western Desert language speakers\n\n![Figure 1, Map of approximate present-day extent of Western Desert language speakers](image.024.png)Brisbane\n\nThe park is owned by the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Aboriginal Land Trust (which is composed of the traditional owners of the park) and covers approximately 1,325 square kilometres of the central desert. The Ayers Rock Resort at Yulara, which adjoins the park’s northern boundary, is owned by the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation. Both the park and the resort are surrounded by the Kaṯiṯi-Petermann Indigenous Protected Area (IPA). Declared in 2015, this IPA incorporates 50,432 square kilometres of Aboriginal freehold land. It is comprised of the Petermann Aboriginal Land Trust (44,993 square kilometres, declared in 1978) and the Kaṯiṯi Aboriginal Land Trust (5,431 square kilometres, declared in 1980).\n\nUluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park and the Kaṯiṯi-Petermann IPA form part of a series of connected protected areas that cross the Northern Territory, Western Australia and South Australia borders, protecting almost 200,000 square kilometres of central desert (see [Figure](#_bookmark5) 2). This network of protected areas contains a vast number of sites of cultural importance to Aṉangu, with Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park being part of an extensive Aboriginal cultural landscape that stretches across the Australian continent.\n\nPart A – About Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park 3","sortOrder":16},{"sectionNumber":"Alice Springs","sectionType":"section","heading":"Alice Springs","content":"![](image.039.png)![](image.038.png)![](image.037.png)0 50\n\n  \n100 km\n\n![](image.045.png)![](image.044.png)![](image.043.png)![](image.042.png)![](image.041.png)![](image.040.png)C\n\n#####   \nAlice Springs","sortOrder":17},{"sectionNumber":"Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park","sectionType":"subdivision","heading":"Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park","content":"#### Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park\n\n  \n\n![](image.084.png)![](image.083.png)![](image.082.png)![](image.081.png)Angas Downs Indigenous Protected Area","sortOrder":18},{"sectionNumber":"Table 1: Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park ","sectionType":"section","heading":"Table 1: Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park Values Statement1","content":"###### ![](image.108.png)Table 1: Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park Values Statement1\n\nBackground\n\nUluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park is jointly managed park by the park’s traditional Aboriginal owners and the Director of National Parks. Tjukurpa (law) is the foundation of Aṉangu life, and the park is managed using traditional methods governed by Tjukurpa combined with western science and management practices. The park’s first priority is conserving the significant natural and cultural values of the area that comprise Tjukurpa.\n\nPark-angka unngu munu Park-angka urilta Tjukurpa palunyatu ngaranyi kutjupa wiya. Ngura miil-miilpa tjuta Park – angka ngaranyi – uwankara kutju ngaranyi, Tjukurpangka.\n\n© Tony Tjamiwa\n\nIt is one Tjukurpa inside the park and outside the park, not different. There are many sacred places in the park that are part of the whole cultural landscape–one line. Everything is one Tjukurpa.\n\nThe park’s landscape is dominated by the iconic massifs of Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa. These two geological features are striking examples of geological processes and erosion occurring over time and provide associated refuge and habitat for a broad range of plant and animal species.\n\nThe park was proclaimed in 1977 under the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1975 (Cth) and continues as a Commonwealth reserve under the EPBC Act. The park protects an area of approximately 1,325 square kilometres within the Great Sandy Desert bioregion.\n\nInternational listings\n\nUluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park is listed under the World Heritage Convention for both its natural and cultural heritage attributes. The park meets four criteria for listing under the convention:\n\n    • An outstanding example representing significant ongoing geological processes, biological evolution and man’s interaction with his natural environment\n    • Contains unique, rare or superlative natural phenomena, formations or features or areas of exceptional natural beauty, such as superlative examples of important ecosystems to man, natural features, sweeping vistas covered by natural vegetation and exceptional combinations of natural and cultural elements\n    • A cultural landscape representing the combined work of nature and of man, manifesting the interaction between humankind and its natural environment\n    • An associative landscape having powerful religious, artistic and cultural associations of the natural elements\n\n![](image.109.png)  \n\n1This table is to be used in conjunction with the impact assessment procedures in Section 3.3 [Assessment of proposals](#_bookmark68) when assessing and considering the impacts of proposals.","sortOrder":19},{"sectionNumber":"Figure 3: Zones and their IUCN categorie","sectionType":"section","heading":"Figure 3: Zones and their IUCN categories within the national park","content":"###### ![](image.151.png)![](image.150.png)![](image.149.png)![](image.148.png)![](image.147.png)![](image.146.png)![](image.145.png)![](image.144.png)![](image.143.png)![](image.142.png)![](image.141.png)![](image.140.png)![](image.139.png)![](image.138.png)![](image.137.png)![](image.136.png)![](image.135.png)![](image.134.png)![](image.133.png)![](image.132.png)![](image.131.png)![](image.130.png)![](image.129.png)![](image.128.png)![](image.127.png)![](image.126.png)![](image.125.png)![](image.124.png)![](image.123.png)![](image.122.png)![](image.121.png)![](image.120.png)![](image.119.png)![](image.118.png)![](image.117.png)![](image.116.png)![](image.115.png)![](image.114.png)![](image.113.png)![](image.112.png)![Figure 3, Map of zones and their IUCN categories within the national park](image.111.png)Figure 3: Zones and their IUCN categories within the national park","sortOrder":20},{"sectionNumber":"Figure 4: Visual representation of the l","sectionType":"section","heading":"Figure 4: Visual representation of the layout of this plan","content":"###### ![](image.323.png)![](image.322.png)![](image.321.png)![](image.320.png)![](image.319.png)![](image.318.png)![](image.317.png)![](image.316.png)![](image.315.png)![](image.314.png)![](image.313.png)![](image.236.png)![](image.312.png)![](image.311.png)![](image.310.png)![](image.309.png)![](image.308.png)![](image.236.png)![](image.307.png)![](image.306.png)![](image.305.png)![](image.304.png)![](image.236.png)![](image.303.png)![](image.302.png)![](image.301.png)![](image.300.png)![](image.299.png)![](image.298.png)![](image.297.png)![](image.296.png)![](image.295.png)![](image.290.png)![](image.294.png)![](image.293.png)![](image.292.png)![](image.279.png)![](image.291.png)![](image.290.png)![](image.289.png)![](image.288.png)![](image.287.png)![](image.286.png)![](image.279.png)![](image.285.png)![](image.284.png)![](image.283.png)![](image.282.png)![](image.281.png)![](image.280.png)![](image.279.png)![](image.278.png)![](image.277.png)![](image.276.png)![](image.275.png)![](image.274.png)![](image.273.png)![](image.272.png)![](image.271.png)![](image.270.png)![](image.269.png)![](image.268.png)![](image.267.png)![](image.256.png)![](image.266.png)![](image.265.png)![](image.264.png)![](image.263.png)![](image.262.png)![](image.261.png)![](image.260.png)![](image.259.png)![](image.258.png)![](image.250.png)![](image.257.png)![](image.256.png)![](image.255.png)![](image.254.png)![](image.253.png)![](image.252.png)![](image.251.png)![](image.250.png)![](image.249.png)![](image.248.png)![](image.247.png)![](image.246.png)![](image.245.png)![](image.244.png)![](image.243.png)![](image.242.png)![](image.241.png)![](image.240.png)![](image.239.png)![](image.238.png)![](image.237.png)![](image.236.png)![](image.230.png)![](image.235.png)![](image.228.png)![](image.234.png)![](image.233.png)![](image.232.png)![](image.231.png)![](image.230.png)![](image.229.png)![](image.228.png)![](image.227.png)![](image.226.png)![](image.225.png)![](image.224.png)![](image.223.png)![](image.222.png)![](image.221.png)![](image.220.png)![](image.216.png)![](image.219.png)![](image.216.png)![](image.218.png)![](image.217.png)![](image.216.png)![](image.215.png)![](image.214.png)![](image.213.png)![](image.212.png)![](image.210.png)![](image.211.png)![](image.210.png)![](image.209.png)![](image.208.png)![](image.207.png)![](image.206.png)![](image.205.png)![](image.204.png)![](image.203.png)![](image.202.png)![](image.201.png)![](image.200.png)![](image.199.png)![](image.198.png)![](image.197.png)![](image.196.png)![](image.185.png)![](image.195.png)![](image.194.png)![](image.193.png)![](image.192.png)![](image.191.png)![](image.190.png)![](image.189.png)![](image.188.png)![](image.187.png)![](image.178.png)![](image.186.png)![](image.185.png)![](image.184.png)![](image.183.png)![](image.182.png)![](image.181.png)![](image.180.png)![](image.179.png)![](image.178.png)![](image.177.png)![](image.176.png)![](image.175.png)![](image.174.png)![](image.173.png)![](image.172.png)![](image.171.png)![](image.170.png)![](image.169.png)![](image.168.png)![](image.167.png)![](image.166.png)![](image.165.png)![](image.164.png)![](image.163.png)![](image.162.png)![](image.161.png)![](image.160.png)![](image.159.png)![](image.158.png)![](image.157.png)![](image.155.png)![](image.156.png)![](image.155.png)![](image.154.png)![](image.153.png)![Figure 4, Visual representation of the layout of this management plan through the use of a tree flowchart](image.152.png)Figure 4: Visual representation of the layout of this plan\n\n![](image.342.png)![](image.341.png)![](image.340.png)![](image.339.png)![](image.338.png)![](image.337.png)![](image.336.png)![](image.335.png)![](image.334.png)![](image.333.png)![](image.332.png)![](image.331.png)![](image.330.png)![](image.329.png)![](image.328.png)![](image.327.png)![](image.326.png)![](image.325.png)![](image.324.png)Management Plan\n\nAṉangu and Piṟanpa working together\n\nTjukurpa Australian law","sortOrder":21},{"sectionNumber":"Figure 5: Summary of the structure of th","sectionType":"section","heading":"Figure 5: Summary of the structure of this plan","content":"###### ![](image.348.png)![](image.347.png)![](image.346.png)![](image.345.png)![](image.344.png)![](image.343.png)Figure 5: Summary of the structure of this plan\n\n![](image.349.png)\n\n![](image.350.png)\n\n![](image.351.png)\n\n![Figure 5, Flowchart summary of the structure of this management plan](image.352.png)\n\n![](image.353.png)","sortOrder":22},{"sectionNumber":"Snapshot of Chapter 2","sectionType":"section","heading":"Snapshot of Chapter 2","content":"###### ![](image.358.png)Snapshot of Chapter 2\n\n![](image.359.png)\n\n![](image.360.png)Objectives","sortOrder":23},{"sectionNumber":"Figure 6: The shared decision making and","sectionType":"section","heading":"Figure 6: The shared decision making and planning process for the park","content":"###### Figure 6: The shared decision making and planning process for the park\n\n![Figure 6, Flowchart detailing the shared decision making and planning processes for the park](image.361.png)Board of Management\\*","sortOrder":24},{"sectionNumber":"Board of Management","sectionType":"division","heading":"Board of Management","content":"### Board of Management\n\nThe Board of Management was established in 1985. Under Piṟanpa law (the EPBC Act), the Board must comprise of a majority of Indigenous people nominated by Nguraṟitja. At the time of this plan’s preparation the Board comprises eight Aṉangu members including the Chairperson (who by convention is Aṉangu); the Director of National Parks; a Minister for Tourism nominee; a Minister for the Environment nominee, and a Northern Territory Government nominee.\n\nThe Board operates under a set of rules approved by the Board, and its functions under the EPBC Act are outlined in section [2.1.1](#_bookmark30) of this plan. Two of these functions are, in conjunction with the Director, to prepare management plans for the park; and, to make decisions relating to the management of the park that are consistent with this management plan.\n\n[Figure 7](#_bookmark29) provides an example of how the Board and the Director worked together in a participatory manner to prepare this management plan.","sortOrder":25},{"sectionNumber":"Figure 7: Example of how the Board discu","sectionType":"section","heading":"Figure 7: Example of how the Board discussed and approved major items in the preparation of this management plan","content":"###### Figure 7: Example of how the Board discussed and approved major items in the preparation of this management plan\n\n![Figure 7, Photograph of note composed during Board discussion concerning approval of major items of this management plan](image.362.jpeg)","sortOrder":26},{"sectionNumber":"Nguraṟitja","sectionType":"division","heading":"Nguraṟitja","content":"### Nguraṟitja\n\nThe term Nguraṟitja is used by Aṉangu as a collective term for traditional owners of the park. In the context of this management plan, Aṉangu is a broader word that refers to people with traditional affiliations to the region who may, or, may not be traditional owners/Nguraṟitja. Depending on the type of decisions that need to be made, Parks Australia and the CLC will consult with Nguraṟitja, using the processes in this\n\nmanagement plan and the consultation guidelines approved by the Board. Usually, the Board will ask for the views of Nguraṟitja on a particular issue before making a decision.","sortOrder":27},{"sectionNumber":"Director of National Parks","sectionType":"division","heading":"Director of National Parks","content":"### Director of National Parks\n\nAs well as being a Board member, the Director has a responsibility under the EPBC Act to administer, control, protect, conserve and manage biodiversity and heritage in Commonwealth reserves. At the time of this plans preparation, many of the Director’s powers under the EPBC Act are delegated to the staff of Parks Australia. The Director is also an ‘accountable authority’ for the purposes of the Public Governance,\n\nPerformance and Accountability Act 2013, which governs how the Director uses and manages public resources. The Director also has obligations to protect the interests and culture of Nguraṟitja under the Lease agreement. Funds for managing the park are allocated from the Australian National Parks Fund as provided for by the EPBC Act, and the Director may collect park use fees subject to the approval of the Minister.","sortOrder":28},{"sectionNumber":"Parks Australia","sectionType":"division","heading":"Parks Australia","content":"### Parks Australia\n\nParks Australia is a division of the Department of the Agriculture, Water and the Environment that supports the Director of National Parks to carry out their responsibilities. Parks Australia staff and Aṉangu manage the day–to–day operations of the park by planning and implementing work programs together. Work programs are guided by the prescriptions and actions of this management plan, and by the decisions and directions of the Board and Director. Parks Australia is also required to ensure that relevant government policies and legal requirements are addressed when managing the park.","sortOrder":29},{"sectionNumber":"Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Aboriginal Land Trust a","sectionType":"division","heading":"Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Aboriginal Land Trust and the Central Land Council","content":"### Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Aboriginal Land Trust and the Central Land Council\n\n    • The Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Aboriginal Land Trust holds title to the park which is owned by Nguraritja. The Central Land Council (CLC) was established under the Land Rights Act and has broad functions to assist and represent the interests of traditional Aboriginal owners of land and other Aboriginal people within Central Australia. CLC, represents Nguraritja for the park and acts on behalf of the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Aboriginal Land Trust. The CLC also acts on behalf of the Nguraritja for the Kaṯiṯi and the Petermann Aboriginal Land Trust, which hold title to the land surrounding the park.\n    • The CLC plays an important role in the joint management of the park by consulting with Aṉangu, monitoring the implementation of the management plan and ensuring that the provisions of the Lease are upheld.\n    • Under the EPBC Act and the Lease, the Director is required to consult the CLC about park management, specifically in relation to the preparation of management plans. At the time of this plan’s preparation, the Director supports a Joint Management Officer for the park to assist the CLC to carry out these activities and address responsibilities under the Lease. For a more detailed description of the role of the CLC, see Appendix F.","sortOrder":30},{"sectionNumber":"Muṯitjulu Liaison Officer","sectionType":"division","heading":"Muṯitjulu Liaison Officer","content":"### Muṯitjulu Liaison Officer\n\nIn accordance with the Lease conditions, the role of the Community Liaison Officer (referred to in this plan as the Muṯitjulu Liaison Officer) is to liaise between the Muṯitjulu community and Parks Australia about management activities, and to present Muṯitjulu community views to the Board. The Muṯitjulu Liaison Officer (MLO) position is funded by the Director, and at the time of preparing this management plan is administered by the Muṯitjulu Community Aboriginal Corporation (MCAC). For more information about the MLO, see Section 4.2 [Muṯitjulu community](#_bookmark85).","sortOrder":31},{"sectionNumber":"Joint Management Partnership Team","sectionType":"division","heading":"Joint Management Partnership Team","content":"### Joint Management Partnership Team\n\nThe Joint Management Partnership Team supports the joint management of the park and addresses relevant Muṯitjulu community issues. At the time of preparing this plan, it comprises the CLC Joint Management Officer, Muṯitjulu Liaison Officer, Board Secretary, and the Park Manager. It operates under Terms of Reference determined by the Board.","sortOrder":32},{"sectionNumber":"Board working groups","sectionType":"division","heading":"Board working groups","content":"### Board working groups\n\nThe Board establishes working groups to assist the Board to carry out its functions, primarily to advise and conduct work delegated by the Board. These working groups are the cultural and natural heritage, tourism, media and Aṉangu employment working groups. Each working group is made up of Nguraṟitja, Parks Australia staff, CLC staff and experts in a particular field. Currently the Board has working groups in the areas of cultural and natural heritage, tourism, media and Aṉangu employment. Each working group operates under terms of reference determined by the Board.\n\nChallenges\n\n    • Ensuring Aṉangu and Piṟanpa Board members can make informed and effective decisions together as equals\n    • Complying with Tjukurpa and Piṟanpa laws and governance requirements when making decisions\n    • Ensuring working groups function effectively to assist the Board to carry out its functions\n    • Engaging younger Aṉangu in decision-making related to the park's management, to ensure joint management remains relevant and effective for future generations\n    • Ensuring Aṉangu priorities and views are considered when making decisions\n    • Ensuring the implementation of this plan is effectively monitored, reported and evaluated","sortOrder":33},{"sectionNumber":"Prescriptions","sectionType":"division","heading":"Prescriptions","content":"### Prescriptions\n\n    The Director will provide sufficient and reasonable resources to support the Board to effectively carry out its functions under the EPBC Act, which are:\n\n        to make decisions for managing the park that are consistent with this management plan; and\n        in-conjunction with the Director, to:\n\n            prepare management plans for the park;\n            monitor the management of the park; and\n            advise the Minister on the future development of the park.\n\n    Joint management decision making and working together by the Director and the Board will be guided by the following principles:\n\n        the Board’s vision and goals for this management plan;\n        Aṉangu and Piṟanpa work and share knowledge together as equals using Tjukurpa and Piṟanpa laws;\n        trust and mutual respect between Aṉangu and Piṟanpa;\n        Aṉangu can be involved in all aspects of joint management; and\n        Aṉangu ways of planning and making decisions are incorporated.","sortOrder":34},{"sectionNumber":"Actions","sectionType":"division","heading":"Actions","content":"### Actions\n\n    Unless otherwise determined by the Board, maintain the operation of the Joint Management Partnership Team.\n    Develop guidelines and procedures to assist Parks Australia staff to comply with the Director’s obligations under this management plan, including Aṉangu consultation requirements outlined in [Table](#_bookmark33) 2.\n    Support Board meetings in ways that enable all members to effectively contribute to making joint and informed decisions. This may include, but is not limited to:\n\n        preparation days, including opportunities for Aṉangu to develop, review and raise agenda items;\n        visual presentation methods;\n        use of an interpreter;\n        participatory planning processes;\n        on-country meetings;\n        governance and cross cultural training;\n        including Aṉangu agenda items on the Board’s agenda; and\n        secretariat support.\n\n    Report to the Board on the implementation of this management plan and other park management issues, as requested by the Board. This includes reporting on the status of Board decisions and follow up actions.\n    With the approval of the Board, communicate and disseminate information about Board activities for Aṉangu and Parks Australia staff, such as through joint management newsletters.\n    Provide opportunities for young Aṉangu to engage in Board and working group forums.\n\n    Review the Lease agreement with CLC in consultation with Nguraṟitja every five years.\n\n    Schedule the prioritisation and implementation of actions and (relevant) prescriptions in this management plan in conjunction with the Board.","sortOrder":35},{"sectionNumber":"Table 2: Consultation requirements and d","sectionType":"section","heading":"Table 2: Consultation requirements and decision-making process for action in the park","content":"###### Table 2: Consultation requirements and decision-making process for action in the park","sortOrder":36},{"sectionNumber":"Management activities by the Director:","sectionType":"section","heading":"Management activities by the Director:","content":"######   \nManagement activities by the Director:\n\n    • Minor works to maintain, repair, replace or improve existing infrastructure in its present form and footprint\n    • Existing routine operations to implement prescriptions or\n\nactions in this management plan or work programs established under this management plan\n\n    • Seasonal opening or closing of visitor areas","sortOrder":37},{"sectionNumber":"Approval of regulated activities:","sectionType":"section","heading":"Approval of regulated activities:","content":"###### Approval of regulated activities:\n\n    • Issuing permits for regular activities in accordance with this management plan e.g. existing types of commercial activities carried out in areas of the park generally open to the public (section [5.4.2)](#_bookmark108) and non- commercial research (section [3.1.4)](#_bookmark49)\n  \n    • Assessment process accords with management plan prescriptions and actions\n    • Nguraṟitja, community members and other stakeholders are consulted\n    • Decision is made by the Director or appropriate delegate","sortOrder":38},{"sectionNumber":"Snapshot of Chapter 3","sectionType":"section","heading":"Snapshot of Chapter 3","content":"###### Snapshot of Chapter 3\n\n![](image.367.png)\n\n![](image.368.png)Performance indicators\n\n    • Extent of Aṉangu participation in cultural and natural heritage management programs\n    • The number of on-country activities conducted\n    • The number of opportunities to support and document the intergenerational transfer of cultural skills, practices and knowledge\n    • Whether monitoring programs for significant flora and fauna are carried out\n    • Whether water extraction from aquifers remains sustainable and water quality is maintained\n    • The number of rock art and cultural sites monitored and managed\n    • Whether waterhole management and protection occurs\n    • The number and extent of active heavily eroded sites\n    • Whether the distribution and/or abundance of targeted invasive species is decreased\n    • Whether the frequency, extent and intensity of large-scale fires are reduced\n    • Whether proposals for new activities are assessed for their impacts in accordance with the management plan\n\nObjectives","sortOrder":42},{"sectionNumber":"Cultural heritage, places, material and ","sectionType":"division","heading":"Cultural heritage, places, material and knowledge","content":"### Cultural heritage, places, material and knowledge\n\nUnder Tjukurpa, Aṉangu have always been connected with Uluṟu. According to Aṉangu, ancestral beings created the plants, animals and features of the landscape, and Aṉangu are the descendants of these ancestors that are responsible for protecting and managing country. Knowledge associated with fulfilling these responsibilities has been passed down from generation to generation through Tjukurpa. Strong spiritual associations and interactions between Aṉangu and country continue today, and it is this ongoing relationship with the land that led to the park being included on the World Heritage List for its cultural values. Therefore, looking after country in accordance with Tjukurpa is a primary responsibility shared by the Director and Aṉangu in jointly managing the park.\n\nThe physical aspects of Aṉangu cultural heritage, such as sacred sites, rock art and archaeological material, are all also part of the park’s living cultural landscape. The park contains significant physical evidence of one of the oldest continuous living cultures in the world. Sites of significance include rock art sites, stone arrangements, rock engravings and rock shelters containing archaeological deposits. Some of the work undertaken to care for significant sites include protecting rock art by installing visitor viewing platforms, controlling erosion, removing weeds and realigning walking tracks away from sensitive areas. A register of sites of special significance has been established in consultation with Aṉangu, the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority and the Central Land Council. [Figure 8](#_bookmark41) shows some of the significant sites and Aṉangu place names at Uluṟu.","sortOrder":46},{"sectionNumber":"Figure 8: Some Aṉangu significant sites ","sectionType":"section","heading":"Figure 8: Some Aṉangu significant sites and places at Uluṟu","content":"###### Figure 8: Some Aṉangu significant sites and places at Uluṟu\n\n![Figure 8, Map of some Anangu significant sites and places at Uluru](image.369.png)","sortOrder":47},{"sectionNumber":"Figure 9: Aṉangu perception of the lands","sectionType":"section","heading":"Figure 9: Aṉangu perception of the landscape with major landmarks extending outside the park boundary © Rene Kulitja","content":"It is the view of Nguraṟitja that, through Tjukurpa, there should be strong links between the management of the park and adjoining lands. This is because areas in the park are closely related to cultural and natural features beyond its boundary. For example, many converging ancestral tracks and Tjukurpa stories that extend across the surrounding lands converge at Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa. Connection to these extended sites has direct implications for the practice and maintenance of Tjukurpa within the park.\n\n[Figure 9](#_bookmark44) highlights some of the important Aṉangu sites that occur both inside and outside the park. These sites include homelands, or outstations, which are small communities built on land of particular cultural significance. There are several homelands located on the Kaṯiṯi-Petermann IPA (see [Figure 9](#_bookmark44) and [Figure 10)](#_bookmark45) and these areas are culturally significant for Nguraṟitja. For this reason, working together with traditional owners of the surrounding lands is important for Nguraṟitja in order to help maintain the living cultural landscape and Tjukurpa both inside the park and in the surrounding region.\n\n###### ![Figure 9, Scanned hand-written note of Anangu perception of the landscape with major landmarks extending outside the park's boundary](image.371.jpeg)  \nFigure 9: Aṉangu perception of the landscape with major landmarks extending outside the park boundary © Rene Kulitja","sortOrder":48},{"sectionNumber":"Uluru-Kata Tjuta","sectionType":"section","heading":"Uluru-Kata Tjuta","content":"###### ![](image.419.png)![](image.418.png)Uluru-Kata Tjuta\n\n  \n\n![](image.424.png)![](image.403.png)![](image.391.png)![](image.423.png)![](image.423.png)![](image.422.png)![](image.421.png)![](image.420.png)Curtin Springs\n\n  \nAngas Downs\n\n![](image.425.png)Imanpa\n\n![](image.428.png)![](image.427.png)![](image.426.png)Mount Ebenezer Eridunda","sortOrder":49},{"sectionNumber":"National Park","sectionType":"section","heading":"National Park","content":"######   \nNational Park\n\nAlpara\n\n  \n\nMulga Park\n\n  \n\n![](image.429.png)Mount Cavenagh","sortOrder":50},{"sectionNumber":"The physical landscape","sectionType":"division","heading":"The physical landscape","content":"### The physical landscape\n\nThe major features of the physical landscape within the park are the iconic rock formations of Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa, whose exceptional natural beauty and ongoing geological processes are recognised in the park’s World Heritage inscription. Aṉangu explanations of the formation of Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa derive from Tjukurpa (see [Tjukurpa and a living cultural landscape](#_bookmark7) in Part A). According to Western science, they were formed when earth movements caused the folding and upthrust of rock, which were later affected by weathering and erosion, resulting in the monoliths we see today.\n\nUluṟu is a red sedimentary rock formation comprised of arkose sandstone. It is approximately 9.4 kilometres in circumference and rises to a height of over 340 metres above the surrounding plain. During rain periods, the water runoff from Uluṟu cascades down fissures forming waterfalls, some up to 100 meters high. Caves at the base of Uluṟu formed by an arid zone process known as cavernous weathering. Kata Tjuṯa comprises 36 rock domes of varying sizes made from a sedimentary, conglomerate rock. The domes cover an area of 35 square kilometres, with the highest point over 500 metres above ground level. Surrounding the exposed rock features, the landscape of the park is dominated by sand dunes, sandplains and alluvium deposited by water flows, particularly from Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa.\n\nAṉangu have a broad system of categorising habitats in the park, according to characteristics such as landform, soil, vegetation, fire state, and animal inhabitants. The categories are:\n\n    • tali—sand dunes or sand dune systems and accompanying vegetation\n    • pila—flat to undulating sandy plains between dunes, generally dominated by spinifex species and occasionally trees and shrubs; pila is the most common habitat in the park\n    • puṯi—flat areas of usually heavier soils characterised by the presence of woodlands, scrubby bush, or dense stands of mulga; puṯi occurs in a ring around Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa before the sand dunes begin and where the ground is hard and sometimes stony\n    • puḻi—the rocky areas, gorges and stony slopes of Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa; only plants that can live in shallow, barren soils are found here","sortOrder":51},{"sectionNumber":"Water","sectionType":"division","heading":"Water","content":"### Water\n\nRainfall in the arid zone is low, highly unpredictable and highly variable. The average annual rainfall for the region is approximately 300 millimetres, but this varies greatly from year to year. Major rainfall events are rare and very important both hydrologically and ecologically, recharging groundwater systems and driving the ‘boom and bust’ cycles of desert ecosystems. Disruption to flows can have adverse effects on soils and vegetation.\n\nWater sources in the park are not only important ecologically but are significant places under Tjukurpa. Knowledge of the location and seasonal availability of water sources was an essential component of Aṉangu survival when travelling through country. Aṉangu recognise four main kinds of water sources that are important to protect and maintain. These are:\n\n    • waṉampi-tjara—large springs which are the most reliable source of water\n    • tjukuḻa—waterholes on exposed platforms in the gullies of Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa\n    • tjuṉu—soaks that seep up from an underground supply of water that is local and close to the surface; these are fairly reliable because the water is protected from evaporation\n    • tjintjiṟa—clay pans, which are the least reliable source of water as they are particularly susceptible to evaporation.\n\nAfter rains, surface water may be present for varying periods in the waterholes and drainage lines associated with the gorges of Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa and the clay pans and depressions associated with mulga woodland communities. After heavy rainfall, water flows from Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa into moist gorges and drainage lines, which provide habitat for restricted, rare and relict species. These environments have been identified as extremely significant refugia in the arid lands (Morton et al. 1995).\n\nGroundwater is the only reliable water source in the region. There are two main underground water systems (known as aquifers) in the park which are not hydrologically connected. The Dune Plains Aquifer supplies Yulara with water, and the Southern Aquifer supplies water to the Muṯitjulu community, Park Headquarters and the Cultural Centre. Recharge of the Dune Plains Aquifer is associated with runoff in response to rare major rainfall events, whilst the Southern Aquifer is directly influenced by runoff from Uluṟu.\n\nIn 2018 the Director commissioned an Aquifer Sustainability Assessment to help assess the sustainability of groundwater use from the park’s Southern Aquifer (Jacobs 2018). This assessment showed that groundwater levels have been slowly declining over the past 10 years, and that current usage is approaching, or may have already exceeded, the sustainable yield. With projected increases in population and tourism visitation, there is a concern that future use may push the capacity of the aquifer to or beyond its limit. Further studies and continued monitoring of groundwater resources during the life of this management plan will be important for informing decisions about the sustainability of ground water resources.","sortOrder":52},{"sectionNumber":"Native plants and animals","sectionType":"division","heading":"Native plants and animals","content":"### Native plants and animals\n\nThe park’s ecosystems are home to a particularly rich assemblage of birds, reptiles, and plants adapted to Central Australia’s arid landscapes. In the context of Tjukurpa, the actions of ancestral animals such as mala (rufous hare-wallaby), paṉpaṉpaḻaḻa (crested bellbird), kuniya (Woma python), lungkaṯa (centralian blue-tongued lizard) and itjaritjari (marsupial mole) have important roles in the evolution of the form and features of Uluṟu.\n\nThe park’s flora represents a large portion of plants found in Central Australia. Among the 619 plant species recorded, five are relict species and seven rare or restricted species, which are generally only found in\n\nthe moist areas at the bases of Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa. At the time of writing this plan, no plant species in the park are listed under the EPBC Act, and only the desert quandong (Santalum acuminatum) is listed as vulnerable in the Northern Territory.\n\nHistorically, 46 native mammal species were recorded in the region covered by the park. A number of these are now extinct, or extinct in the wild. Surveys show that 21 native mammal species are found within the park. The mala or rufous hare-wallaby (Lagorchestes hirsutus), is listed as endangered under the EPBC Act and extinct in the wild under the Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 2006 (the TPWC Act). Two other species are listed as vulnerable under the TPWC Act - the murtja or mulgara (Dasycercus cristicauda) and the itjaritjari or marsupial mole (Notoryctes typhlops). For more information about these species see [Appendix](#_bookmark129) H. A number of mala were reintroduced into a large predator-proof enclosure in the park with the long-term objective of re-establishing a permanent population.\n\nThe park’s bird life is rich by Central–Western Desert standards, with over 170 bird species recorded. One of these, the princess parrot (Polytelis alexandrae), is listed as vulnerable under the EPBC Act. Another bird species, the grey falcon (Falco hypoleucos), is listed as vulnerable under the TPWC Act. Many other species have restricted or sparse distributions, and a number of migratory species are also listed under the EPBC Act (see [Appendix](#_bookmark130) I).\n\nThe park has an extremely rich reptile fauna with over 70 species being recorded in the park. No other comparably sized area in the Australian semi-arid zone is known be as rich in reptiles (Reid et al. 1993). One species, the Tjakuṟa or great desert skink (Liopholis kintorei) is listed as vulnerable under the EPBC Act (see [Appendix](#_bookmark129) H).\n\nFour frog species have been recorded in the park and may be seen in abundance and heard after heavy rain.\n\nThe Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa landscape is representative of Central Australian arid ecosystems. Many of the species found in this region have suffered a general decline in distribution and abundance. Some species that formerly occurred in the park have now become extinct in the Northern Territory, and others have become extinct on mainland Australia. To Aṉangu, a decrease in the population or extinction of a species has implications for the condition and health of the landscape and for the ongoing maintenance of Tjukurpa. As such, Aṉangu have supported moves to reintroduce locally extinct animals such as the mala.\n\nAll native flora and fauna species are protected by the EPBC Act and EPBC Regulations, which prohibit moving, taking, trading, killing or injuring native species. The EPBC Act and EPBC Regulations also prohibit bringing in animals and plants, or cultivating plants in the park, except in accordance with the prescriptions in this section.\n\nSection 3.2 [Protecting and enriching culture and country](#_bookmark56) provides information in relation to invasive fauna and flora species.","sortOrder":53},{"sectionNumber":"Research, monitoring and knowledge manag","sectionType":"division","heading":"Research, monitoring and knowledge management","content":"### Research, monitoring and knowledge management\n\nResearch and monitoring provide essential information about the park’s plant and animal life, its natural and cultural resources and its visitor use. This information assists the Director, the Board and Parks Australia to make good decisions about managing the park. It also assists in the adaptive management of the park and provides useful information for regional conservation programs, local Aboriginal enterprises, and the tourism industry. Research and monitoring can be done by park staff, consultants, government agencies, research organisations and individuals.\n\nFlora and fauna monitoring reveals how conditions change over time, and helps in assessing the effectiveness of management programs to make better management decisions. The episodic fluctuations in the abundance and distribution of many central Australian animals and their habitats mean that long-term monitoring programs are essential to identify trends. Examining species at an ecosystem level also assists in identifying key pressures, vulnerabilities and potential flow-on effects to other species and habitats.\n\nUndertaking visitor surveys and monitoring helps to develop better understanding of who visits the park, how visitors use the park, what visitors expect, and how satisfied they are.\n\nResearch and monitoring activities are subject to the EPBC Act and EPBC Regulations, including those that involve native species, those conducted for commercial purposes, and those that require access to biological resources. These actions must be carried out in accordance with the prescriptions outlined in this management plan.\n\nChallenges\n\n    • Supporting Nguraṟitja to keep their knowledge and skills strong and pass them on to younger generations\n    • Ensuring Aṉangu control the use of their ICIP, including its use by Parks Australia\n    • Managing the park as part of a broader ‘living’ cultural and natural landscape, sharing knowledge and engaging with regional stakeholders to do this\n    • Ensuring adequate information to make decisions about long-term sustainability of groundwater use from the Dune Plains and Southern Aquifers\n    • Conducting research and monitoring to inform management of the park’s cultural and natural values, and sharing this knowledge to park staff, Nguraṟitja, and other stakeholders. This includes improving understanding of the impacts of climate change, the status and ecology of listed or significant species, and involving Aṉangu in this work\n    • Improving our ways of storing, retrieving and sharing data and knowledge","sortOrder":54},{"sectionNumber":"Supporting retention of cultural knowled","sectionType":"division","heading":"Supporting retention of cultural knowledge","content":"### Supporting retention of cultural knowledge\n\nIn the past, Tjukurpa guided the day-to-day lives of Aṉangu through the search for food and resources, storytelling and ceremony (inma). Since European settlement, the movement of Aṉangu off their country, sometimes far\n\naway from their ancestoral lands, limited opportunities to spend time on-country and undertake important land management practices. This has resulted in a loss of some cultural knowledge and traditions, particularly as many senior Aṉangu have passed away without the opportunity to share important information. As the number senior Aṉangu gets smaller, so too does the body of cultural knowledge, beliefs and practices that define Aṉangu culture.\n\nHowever, the retention and transmission of much of the cultural knowledge associated with Tjukurpa remains strong and is expressed through the continuation of inma, visiting country, strong kinship relationships and retention and use of language. The strength of the Aṉangu cultural knowledge that remains is reflected in the listing of the park as a World Heritage area for its cultural values as a living cultural landscape.\n\nDespite these measures, Nguraṟitja express concern that cultural knowledge is still being lost, with social changes associated with living sedentary lifestyles impacting the transfer of knowledge to younger generations (see [Feature Box](#_bookmark57) 3). Consequently, there is an urgent need to pass on and document many\n\naspects of Tjukurpa and cultural knowledge. Retention of this knowledge is not only critical for current and future generations of Aṉangu but also for the long-term management of the park. In addition, the loss of this knowledge erodes the World Heritage cultural values of the park. Parks Australia supports the maintenance of culture through facilitation of on-country activities and incorporation of Aṉangu knowledge in management programs. See Section 2.2 [Work planning and implementation,](#_bookmark35) for further information about how Parks Australia supports Aṉangu to maintain culture.","sortOrder":57},{"sectionNumber":"Protecting significant sites and species","sectionType":"division","heading":"Protecting significant sites and species","content":"### Protecting significant sites and species\n\nThere may be varying perceptions of the significance and value of cultural sites among Aṉangu, park staff, stakeholders and visitors. Some sites have obvious cultural significance, such as rock art sites, but many other places have importance to Aṉangu which may appear insignificant to other people. Aṉangu want\n\nto ensure that all significant sites and species within the park are recorded, maintained and protected from threats.\n\nThere are many threats that could impact significant sites. Fire can have severe impacts, particularly when there is a build-up of vegetation or weeds close to cultural sites (see the Fire management section below). Wasps and termites can damage rock art by building nests and tunnels over rock faces, and water flowing over or seeping through rocks may also cause damage to images. Introduced animals such as camels\n\ncan disturb or damage waterholes, and introduced weeds can overcome native plants and result in loss of habitat for native animals and bush foods for Aṉangu.\n\nIn some areas of the park, erosion is also an issue that can affect significant sites and native vegetation. Roads and tracks can alter natural surface contours, redirecting rainfall which results in erosion and changes vegetative (including weed) growth. For example, the road around Uluṟu was built above the natural ground level in some places which has altered the sheet water flow and resulted in erosion.\n\nSignificant gully erosion also occurred around the base of Uluṟu due to uncontrolled vehicle use by early visitors, though most of the most heavily eroded sites have now been rehabilitated.\n\nExcavation and mining operations in the park (including fossicking and introduction, disturbance or removal of earth materials) are subject to the EPBC Act and EPBC Regulations and this management plan. As mining is not compatible with the park’s World Heritage listing it is prohibited (refer to sections [3.2.5](#_bookmark63) to [3.2.8).](#_bookmark65)\n\nVisitor access and use of the park can have negative effects on significant sites if they are not managed properly. Dust accumulation on rock faces, rubbish, crowding and noise can impact sites and wildlife.\n\nAlthough limited, vandalism on rocks around Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa has required removal and treatment of graffiti. Under the EPBC Regulations, visitors are prohibited from removing rocks, stones or sand as souvenirs from the park. Visitors who have taken these things earlier often return them to the park with a\n\nletter of apology (these are called ‘sorry rocks’). There are also strong concerns among Aṉangu about the unauthorised access to, or photography of, sacred or restricted areas.\n\nTo mitigate these threats, Parks Australia undertakes fire management, invasive species control, erosion mitigation and manages visitor access. Significant sites are also protected through maintenance, monitoring, and by restricting visitor access to significant areas. Interpretative signage and re-routing of walking tracks are also implemented to keep visitors away from sensitive areas.\n\nMany animal species have been recorded in the park, including 21 native mammals, four frogs, and over 170 bird and 70 reptile species. Amongst them are species listed as threatened under Commonwealth and Northern Territory legislation (see [Appendix H](#_bookmark129) and [Appendix](#_bookmark130) I). National recovery plans and conservation advice has been made under the EPBC Act to guide research and management actions designed to halt the decline and support recovery of threatened species or ecological communities.\n\nWhere recovery plans exist for species or communities found in the park, management actions taken by the park need to align with the requirements of these national recovery plans. At the time of writing, the only species that occurs in the park for which a national recovery program is in place is the mala (Lagorchestes hirsutus).","sortOrder":58},{"sectionNumber":"Introduced plants and animals","sectionType":"division","heading":"Introduced plants and animals","content":"### Introduced plants and animals\n\nIn the past many exotic plant species have been introduced and have spread through the park. Weeds compete with native plants, change the structure of vegetation communities, and impact on food and habitat availability for native animals. New weeds have the potential to be introduced to the park in many ways, including vehicles, animals and wind.\n\nThe most threatening weed in the park is buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliaris). Buffel grass is a perennial plant native to Africa and the Middle East, and is now established across central Australia. It can affect ecosystem function by out-competing native plant species, removing suitable habitat for native animals and reducing the amount of bush foods and medicines available for Aṉangu. Buffel grass also changes water flows, grows thickly in drainage lines, and can worsen erosion. Landscapes dominated by buffel grass burn more frequently and at higher intensity than uninvaded native vegetation. This further impacts the surrounding environment. The spread and ecological impact of buffel grass varies throughout the park, but it thrives especially around Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa.\n\nMost other weed species in the park do not have a major impact on the park’s natural and cultural values. Many weeds only become evident after rain and the priority for their control is in locations such as waterholes, significant cultural sites and key visitor areas.\n\nIn addition to exotic plants, introduced animal species have had a significant impact on Australia’s arid regions, including the park’s cultural and natural values. Of the 27 mammal species recorded in the park, six are introduced: rabbits, camels, foxes, house mice, cats, and dogs (see [Table](#_bookmark59) 3). These animals cause erosion, damage sacred sites, spread weeds and disease and are recognised as a major factor in the extinction of the native species of Central Australia. Aṉangu knowledge and tracking skills are invaluable assets when monitoring invasive species, and are used in combination with scientific techniques, such as fauna monitoring cameras. As invasive species issues extend well beyond the boundaries of the park (such as camel management), effective control may depend on regional management programs and cooperation with neighbours. The impacts of other threats such as large scale wildfires can also exacerbate the impacts of introduced animals on native fauna. Although fire management is a key ecological management tool, intense large fire can also negatively impact on vegetation and reduce native habitat leading to increased predation by and establishment of introduced species.\n\nBringing in or keeping plants or animals, or cultivating plants in the park is prohibited, except in accordance with this management plan or a permit issued by the Director (see sections [3.2.3](#_bookmark61) and [3.2.4).](#_bookmark62) The Weeds Management Act 2001 (NT) also applies to the park. At the time of writing this plan rabbits, foxes and cats are listed as key threatening processes under the EPBC Act. Management of the park should align with national threat abatement plans for these species, which provide for the research, management, and any other actions necessary to reduce the impacts on native species and ecological communities.","sortOrder":59},{"sectionNumber":"Table 3: Introduced animal species at Ul","sectionType":"section","heading":"Table 3: Introduced animal species at Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park and their effects on cultural and natural values","content":"###### ![](image.446.png)Table 3: Introduced animal species at Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park and their effects on cultural and natural values\n\n| SpeciesCamelKamula, auru          | Impacts on park valuesImplicated in the reduction of plant species including vulnerable species. Potential to damage sacred sites and degrade the condition of waterholes and water quality. Camels may also impact on visitor safety (e.g. through vehicle accidents).                                                                                                                                                                                                               |\n| --------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |\n| RabbitRapita, pintjatanpa         | Potential to denude the country of vegetation and out-compete small native mammals.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   |\n| MouseMingkiri                     | Successful invader of disturbed environments and habitats that have lost native rodents. Extremely high numbers can occur during favourable seasons but drop quickly as conditions dry out.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           |\n| CatNgaya, mulku, putji, putjikata | Prey upon many arid zone reptiles and small mammals (Paltridge 2002), resulting in significant declines of small mammal populations (Smith & Quin 1996). Three of the park’s vulnerable species are of typical prey size for cats - the great desert skink (tjakuṟa), mulgara (murtja) and rufous-haired wallaby (mala). Cats were a major factor in the failure of the mala reintroduction program in the Tanami Desert which is a consideration for future reintroduction programs. |\n| FoxTuuka                          | Have affected populations of tjakuṟa in the park and were likely to be involved in the loss of black-footed rock wallaby from Kata Tjuṯa in the 1980s. Three of the park’s threatened species are of typical prey size for foxes - tjakuṟa, murtja and mala.                                                                                                                                                                                                                          |\n| DogPapa, tjitutja                 | Domestic dogs mainly live in the residential area of the park, but may roam into the park and impact on its natural values. Aṉangu have historically kept dogs of mixed breeds including dingo (Canis lupus dingo).                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   |","sortOrder":60},{"sectionNumber":"Fire management","sectionType":"division","heading":"Fire management","content":"### Fire management\n\nFire (waṟu) is a natural part of the park’s cultural and natural values and is integral to maintaining Tjukurpa. Aṉangu have always used fire as an important tool for managing country, and this long-standing relationship is acknowledged in the park’s World Heritage listing. Fire is also used for landscape scale ecosystem management, and often involves working cooperatively with neighbours through a regional burning approach.\n\nAnangu fire management techniques create mosaics or patchworks of vegetation in different stages of recovery, and over many thousands of years the region’s plants and animals evolved under its influence. Many Central Australian species therefore have specific requirements related to the frequency and intensity of fires. Aṉangu use burning methods to collect resources, diversify food production and to help create diverse landscapes that can support many native species. Following the arrival of Europeans, and the movement of Aṉangu to settled communities, traditional patterns of burning were altered. Disruption of mosaic burning practices has resulted in large destructive wildfires, and reduced habitat diversity for native animals. It is also a contributing factor in the loss of mammal species from the region.\n\nMost major wildfires have been recorded in the park since the 1940s, with several of these having severe impacts. Since the 1980s, fire management in the park has incorporated traditional Aṉangu knowledge to carry out prescribed burning based on traditional patch burning techniques. This helps to avoid, contain or minimise the spread of wildfires, and in turn reduce the impacts on sensitive flora and fauna species. In addition to protecting the park’s natural and cultural values, fire management programs also ensure the protection of life, property and park assets.\n\nThe park works with adjoining landowners and relevant agencies including the Central Land Council, Northern Territory Government agencies (e.g. Fire and Rescue Service and Bushfires NT) and neighbours to adopt a regional approach to fire management.","sortOrder":61},{"sectionNumber":"Climate change","sectionType":"division","heading":"Climate change","content":"### Climate change\n\nIn recent years global climate change has emerged as a key issue for biodiversity and environmental management. A climate change strategy (DNP 2012) was developed for the park from 2012-15 which identified the following potential impacts:\n\n    • pressure on native flora and fauna and impacts on biodiversity\n    • increased spread of invasive species\n    • introduction of exotic species\n    • reduced groundwater and surface water availability\n    • increased incidence of fire events\n    • indigenous and cultural impacts\n    • visitor impacts and human health\n    • increased pressure on park infrastructure.\n\nA report about the expected effects of climate change on the park (Hyder Consulting 2008) suggested that the park could be affected by increases in average temperatures, more days over 35°C, increases in evaporation and reduced rainfall, resulting in less surface water being available. These impacts may be reduced by managing existing threats to the park’s cultural and natural values and utilising research and\n\nmonitoring programs to assess the resilience of species or habitats under changing climatic conditions (see Section 3.1 [Knowledge for managing country](#_bookmark39)). Climate change may also have implications for visitor safety and consequently the management of visitor services and facilities (see Section 5.1 [Visitor experience and](#_bookmark93) [site management](#_bookmark93)).","sortOrder":62},{"sectionNumber":"Table 4: Impact assessment procedures","sectionType":"section","heading":"Table 4: Impact assessment procedures","content":"###### ![](image.447.png)Table 4: Impact assessment procedures","sortOrder":66},{"sectionNumber":"Table 5: Impact assessment matters and c","sectionType":"section","heading":"Table 5: Impact assessment matters and considerations","content":"###### ![](image.450.png)Table 5: Impact assessment matters and considerations\n\n| Matter for assessmentEnvironmental contexta. What are the parts or features of the environment in the areawhere the action will take place? | Considerations• Species and ecological communities in the park and region• Matters of national environmental significance (as defined in the EPBC Act)• Cultural features and values (including sacred sites and non-physical cultural heritage)• Natural features and values• Social and economic values, including Aṉangu uses and interests• Tourism and recreational values and impacts on visitor experience• Aesthetic (visual appearance) and landscape values• Scientific reference areas |\n| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |\n| b. Which parts or features of the environment are likely to be impacted?                                                                    | • Short-term and long-term impacts on and off site                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                |\n| c. Is the environment that is likely to be affected, or are parts of that environment, sensitive or vulnerable to impacts?                  | • Nguraṟitja interests, in particular relevant conditions of the park lease agreement• Combined impacts of a range of activities across the park on the environment or parts of the environment• Uniqueness of elements within the park and region                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                |\n| d. What is the history, current use and condition of the environment that is likely to be affected?                                         | • Comparison with condition of similar sites elsewhere in the park                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                |","sortOrder":67},{"sectionNumber":"Snapshot of Chapter 4","sectionType":"section","heading":"Snapshot of Chapter 4","content":"###### Snapshot of Chapter 4\n\n![](image.455.png)","sortOrder":69},{"sectionNumber":"History of Muṯitjulu community","sectionType":"division","heading":"History of Muṯitjulu community","content":"### History of Muṯitjulu community\n\nThe establishment of the Muṯitjulu community is related to the development of tourism at Uluṟu, which began in the 1930s and has expanded in the region ever since (see [Appendix](#_bookmark131) J). At that time, Aṉangu travelled widely over their ancestral lands pursuing ceremonial life, visiting family, and hunting and collecting food. The semi-permanent water available at Uluṟu made it a particularly important stopping point on these journeys. By the early 1970s Aṉangu found their country more accessible with roads, vehicles, radio communications and\n\nsettlements. The establishment of the Ininti Store in 1972 as an Aboriginal enterprise on a lease within the park became the nucleus of a permanent Aṉangu community within the park. Through the handback of the park to Nguraṟitja in 1985 and the development of the Lease between the Director and the Land Trust, the rights of Nguraṟitja and other Aṉangu to reside in the park were formally recognised under Commonwealth law.","sortOrder":72},{"sectionNumber":"The EPBC Act and park lease agreement","sectionType":"division","heading":"The EPBC Act and park lease agreement","content":"### The EPBC Act and park lease agreement\n\nThe EPBC Act requires the management plan to be consistent with the Director’s Lease obligations. In relation to Muṯitjulu, the Lease states that Aṉangu and other Aboriginals entitled to use or occupy the park have the right to reside within the park at Muṯitjulu or at such other locations specified in the management plan, subject to:\n\n    • directions or decisions of the Board with respect to health, safety or privacy\n    • reasonable constraints in the management plan for reasons of safety, security, privacy or protection of the park.","sortOrder":73},{"sectionNumber":"Muṯitjulu Township Sublease","sectionType":"division","heading":"Muṯitjulu Township Sublease","content":"### Muṯitjulu Township Sublease\n\nOn 16 March 2017, the Director granted a sublease to the Executive Director of Township Leasing (EDTL) over an area of the park including the Muṯitjulu community (see [Figure 1](#_bookmark86)1). The Muṯitjulu Township Sublease was granted with the consent of the Board, the Central Land Council and the Uluṟu Kata-Tjuṯa Aboriginal Land Trust and in accordance with the previous management plan. The EDTL administers the area covered by the sublease on behalf of the Commonwealth and works with a Consultative Forum of Traditional Owners and residents of Muṯitjulu.\n\nThe purpose of the Muṯitjulu Township Sublease is to implement a secure and regular land administration system which provides certainty of tenure through long-term underleases. Security of tenure provides opportunities for new infrastructure investment and enables Anangu to pusue their social, cultural and economic aspirations. Anangu now have direct input into all decisions about land use in Mutitjulu and receive rent from their land.\n\nThe area covered by the Muṯitjulu Township Sublease remains part of a Commonwealth reserve and the World Heritage area. Under this management plan, the area over the sublease is assigned IUCN category VI ‘Managed Resource Use Protected Area’, and is referred to as the Muṯitjulu Township Zone (see Section 1.5 [IUCN category and zoning](#_bookmark16)). The prescriptions in this section recognise the need, benefits and practicality of assessing and approving proposals within the Muṯitjulu Township Zone in a different manner to the remainder of the park. These prescriptions also recognise that the EDTL, as the current Muṯitjulu Township sublessee, is now responsible for managing that part of the park on behalf of the Commonwealth. Accordingly, all development and use of the Muṯitjulu Township Zone must comply with this section of this management\n\nplan, and with the terms and conditions of the Muṯitjulu Township Sublease and any other applicable laws or Regulations.\n\nWater to the Muṯitjulu community and the Cultural Centre precinct is supplied by the park’s Southern Aquifer. As the capacity of the aquifer to supply these areas into the future is unclear, the Director commissioned an Aquifer Sustainability Assessment in 2018 to help assess groundwater quantity and sustainable use of the Southern Aquifer. The assessment recommended sustainable management practices and monitoring in order to manage the long-term viability of water resources (see Section 3.1 [Knowledge for managing country](#_bookmark39) for more details).","sortOrder":74},{"sectionNumber":"Figure 11: The Muṯitjulu Township Zone","sectionType":"section","heading":"Figure 11: The Muṯitjulu Township Zone","content":"###### ![](image.472.png)![](image.471.png)![](image.470.png)![](image.469.png)![](image.468.png)![](image.467.png)![](image.466.png)![](image.133.png)![](image.132.png)![](image.465.png)![](image.464.png)![](image.463.png)![](image.462.png)![](image.461.png)![](image.460.png)![](image.459.png)![](image.458.png)![](image.457.png)![Figure 11, Map detailing the Muṯitjulu Township Zone](image.456.png)Figure 11: The Muṯitjulu Township Zone","sortOrder":75},{"sectionNumber":"Muṯitjulu Community Aboriginal Corporati","sectionType":"division","heading":"Muṯitjulu Community Aboriginal Corporation (MCAC)","content":"### Muṯitjulu Community Aboriginal Corporation (MCAC)\n\nMuṯitjulu Community Aboriginal Corporation (MCAC) operates in accordance with the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006 (Cth) (the CATSI Act) and is the Relevant Aboriginal Association under the Muṯitjulu Township sublease. At the time of this plan’s preparation, MCAC’s aims are to:\n\n    • Improve the life and well-being of the members. ‘We are here to live well, be healthy and happy, create a better world for our kids and their kids, look after our country and strengthen our culture’;\n    • Relieve poverty, sickness, destitution, helplessness, suffering and misfortune among members, their families, and visitors;\n    • Support members and their families by developing the community economy;\n    • Support and encourage members to manage their own affairs on their own land;\n    • Support and encourage Anangu law, language and culture;\n    • Build trust and friendship between members and other people;\n    • Work together with other Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal groups on projects that benefit all; and\n    • Receive and spend grants from Government and other groups for the benefit of our community.\n\nMCAC manages a range of services and activities in the Muṯitjulu community, which include building and infrastructure management, community development projects and facilitating social and cultural activities. MCAC also employ a Muṯitjulu Liaison Officer (MLO) (which for the purpose of this plan is the Community Liaison Officer under the park lease agreement). In accordance with the lease, the Director provides funding (with a budget approved by the Board) for the position of MLO. The MLO’s role is to represent the community on the Joint Management partnership team, liaise between Muṯitjulu community and the\n\nDirector, about matters relevant to the park’s management and Muṯitjulu community and to present Muṯitjulu community views about these matters to the Board.","sortOrder":76},{"sectionNumber":"Community services","sectionType":"division","heading":"Community services","content":"### Community services\n\nServices for the day-to-day functioning of the Muṯitjulu community include township infrastructure, housing development, health, education, police, and social and community services. These are the responsibility of Australian and Northern Territory Government agencies, as well as a range of other organisations, including MCAC. The Director works closely with these organisations and agencies in relation to the sustainable development of the community. Recognising the importance of these issues and supporting community development programs greatly assists in making joint management of the park strong and sustainable.\n\nThe Director currently provides all essential services (power, water and sewerage) to the Muṯitjulu community. It is recognised that it is not the core business of the Director to deliver essential services for remote communities. Discussions with Commonwealth agencies and the Northern Territory Government regarding transfer of responsibilities for essential services were continuing at the time of this plan’s preparation.","sortOrder":77},{"sectionNumber":"Snapshot of Chapter 5","sectionType":"section","heading":"Snapshot of Chapter 5","content":"###### Snapshot of Chapter 5\n\n![](image.475.png)Goal\n\nTourism experiences and services\n\nTo provide fulfilling experiences based on culture and nature that benefit Aṉangu, who welcome visitors as their guests\n\nPerformance indicators\n\n![](image.476.png)  \n\nObjectives","sortOrder":80},{"sectionNumber":"5.1","sectionType":"part","heading":"Visitor experience and site management","content":"## 5.1 Visitor experience and site management\n\nEnhance visitor access, and increase the range and quality of cultural and natural experiences available in the park","sortOrder":81},{"sectionNumber":"5.2","sectionType":"part","heading":"Information, education and interpretation","content":"## 5.2 Information, education and interpretation\n\nEnrich visitor understanding and appreciation of the park’s cultural and natural values","sortOrder":82},{"sectionNumber":"5.3","sectionType":"part","heading":"Promotion, marketing, film and photography","content":"## 5.3 Promotion, marketing, film and photography\n\nPromote messages welcoming visitors to experience the park’s cultural and natural attractions","sortOrder":83},{"sectionNumber":"5.4","sectionType":"part","heading":"Commercial operations","content":"## 5.4 Commercial operations\n\nCommercial tourism provides a range of fulfilling, sustainable, culturally appropriate and rewarding visitor experiences and benefits Aṉangu","sortOrder":84},{"sectionNumber":"6. Administration and business managemen","sectionType":"part","heading":"6. Administration and business management","content":"# 6. Administration and business management\n\nChapters [2](#_bookmark23) to [5](#_bookmark91) reflect the Boards four key goals for this management plan (see [Figure](#_bookmark20) 4) and outline the objectives, performance indicators, prescriptions and actions needed to achieve these goals. However, there are a range of other administrative and business management activities the Director must undertake to comply with relevant legislation, and in order to manage the park in an effective and efficient manner.\n\nThis chapter summarises these administration and business management activities, which include the provision of safe and effective infrastructure, reducing the park’s ecological footprint, responding to incidents such as search and rescue, and carrying out law enforcement activities. It also sets out the objectives, prescriptions and actions for managing park operations including resource use, capital works and infrastructure, incident management and compliance, subleases, licences and occupancy issues, and other new activities not specified elsewhere in this plan.","sortOrder":93},{"sectionNumber":"Snapshot of Chapter 6","sectionType":"section","heading":"Snapshot of Chapter 6","content":"###### ![](image.481.png)Snapshot of Chapter 6\n\n![](image.482.png)","sortOrder":94},{"sectionNumber":"Action","sectionType":"division","heading":"Action","content":"### Action\n\n    Manage subleases and licences, particularly monitoring compliance with relevant conditions.","sortOrder":103}],"analysis":{"flash_summary_failed":{"failed":true,"reason":"A positive credit balance is required for all requests, including BYOK, so fallback providers remain available. Add credits at https://vercel.com/d?to=%2F%5Bteam%5D%2F%7E%2Fai%3Fmodal%3Dtop-up to continue.","source":"analysis-cron"},"flash_summary":{"complexity_score":7,"scope_assessment":{"changed":false,"description":"The plan documents implementation detail for joint management under the EPBC Act and the park Lease rather than changing the park’s statutory scope. It reiterates existing authorities (Director, Board, Land Trust, CLC), establishes operational procedures (consultation, impact assessment, zoning, permits), and adds implementation priorities (employment, cultural programs, monitoring) without expanding legal powers beyond those set by the EPBC Act and the Lease."},"complexity_factors":["Joint governance structure: shared decision‑making between the Director and the Board (Section 2.1) creates multi‑actor approval pathways and bespoke consultation requirements.","Layered consultation rules and consent requirements: Table 2 and associated prescriptions require varying levels of Nguraṟitja, CLC and Board engagement depending on action scale.","Impact assessment matrix and procedures: Table 4 and Table 5 set staged assessment triggers and matters to be considered, increasing procedural complexity for proponents.","Zoning and differentiated rules: IUCN zoning and a distinct Muṯitjulu Township Zone (Section 1.5; Section 4.2) change approval routes and permitted activities locally.","Authorisations and tenure instruments: multiple authorisation types (permits, commercial activity licences, subleases, occupation licences) and required consents (including Land Trust and CLC) complicate transactions (Sections 5.4, 6.5).","Regulatory prohibitions and prescription hierarchy: explicit prohibitions (e.g. mining) and prescriptions/actions framework require reconciling cultural and environmental protections with tourism and infrastructure needs (Sections 3.2, 5.1, 6.1).","Cost and compliance burdens: the Director may recover assessment and management costs from proponents and set fees/charges (Section 3.3; Section 5.4), creating financial incentives and barriers for applicants.","Operational discretion and exceptions: Director powers to restrict access, approve otherwise unprescribed actions (ss.354/354A referenced), and emergency exceptions add discretionary decision points (Chapters 3 and 6).","Interagency and stakeholder coordination: requirements to work with NT agencies, tourism bodies, regional IPAs and neighbours for fire, invasive species and groundwater management increase coordination load (Sections 3.1, Fire management, Muṯitjulu).","Resource constraints and technical dependencies: groundwater sustainability findings and long‑term monitoring needs (Southern and Dune Plains Aquifers; Jacobs 2018 referenced) create technical policy dependencies for approvals and infrastructure planning."],"plain_english_summary":"This management plan sets the operational rules, roles and assessment procedures for managing Uluṟu‑Kata Tjuṯa National Park: who decides, what permits or licences are required, how proposals are assessed, and which activities are restricted. It affects the Director of National Parks, the Uluṟu‑Kata Tjuṯa Board (majority Indigenous), Nguraṟitja, the Central Land Council, the Muṯitjulu community, commercial operators and visitors because it allocates decision‑making, consultation duties and potential cost recovery for proponents to protect cultural and natural values."},"kimi_summary":{"_metrics":{"completionTokens":687},"content_quality":"ok","complexity_score":7,"scope_assessment":{"changed":false,"description":"The plan maintains the established scope of joint management under the 1985 handback and subsequent lease agreements. While it updates specific policies (notably the formal closure of the Uluru climb and new arrangements for the Muṯitjulu Township Sublease granted in 2017), these represent implementation of existing frameworks rather than expansion beyond original intent. The core scope — joint management balancing conservation, tourism, and Aboriginal community development — remains consistent with preceding plans."},"complexity_factors":["Multiple overlapping legal frameworks: EPBC Act, Lease agreement, CATSI Act, NT legislation, World Heritage obligations","Bilingual governance requiring integration of Tjukurpa (Aboriginal law) with Western legal and scientific systems","Detailed zoning system with IUCN categories and specific rules for the Muṯitjulu Township Zone","Extensive cross-referencing between sections (e.g., Table 2 consultation requirements referenced throughout)","Conditional decision-making hierarchies: Board approval required for some actions, Director-only for others, with nested exceptions","Impact assessment procedures with three categories requiring different levels of scrutiny","Multiple stakeholder consultation requirements with defined processes for Nguraṟitja, CLC, Board working groups, and community","Prescriptions and actions structure creates parallel obligations that must be read together","Specific technical requirements for infrastructure, water management, fire regimes, and species protection"],"plain_english_summary":"The Uluru‑Kata Tjuta National Park Management Plan 2021 sets a 10‑year, legally binding framework for joint management by Aṉangu and the federal Director of National Parks to protect the park’s natural and cultural World Heritage values, manage visitors, tourism and the Muṯitjulu community, and guide conservation and development. It affects Aṉangu, visitors, tourism operators, Parks Australia staff and Muṯitjulu residents. It matters because it elevates Tjukurpa alongside science, ended climbing Uluru, prioritises Aboriginal employment and cultural knowledge, and tackles major environmental threats."}},"importantCases":[],"_links":{"self":"/api/acts/uluru-kata-tjuta-national-park-management-plan-2021","history":"/api/acts/uluru-kata-tjuta-national-park-management-plan-2021/history","analysis":"/api/acts/uluru-kata-tjuta-national-park-management-plan-2021/analysis","conflicts":"/api/acts/uluru-kata-tjuta-national-park-management-plan-2021/conflicts","importantCases":"/api/acts/uluru-kata-tjuta-national-park-management-plan-2021/important-cases","documents":"/api/acts/uluru-kata-tjuta-national-park-management-plan-2021/documents"}}