PLANNING OUR FUTURE
Overview
The Nature Parks is proud of its special role on Phillip Island (Milawul), where we oversee land of significant environmental, cultural, and community value. As land managers and tourism leaders, we hold a unique responsibility in shaping a healthy and thriving environment for the island’s wildlife, the community, and for all who visit.
We have obligations to fulfil under the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978 and under the Marine and Coastal Act 2018. We also have aspirations for Phillip Island to have a healthy ecosystem that supports its economy and community.
In considering our risks, our resource constraints and our legislative obligations we have developed our Strategic Plan with a 10-year horizon that is aimed at having a positive impact on our environment, our community and our economy.
Our process
The Nature Parks has developed a new Strategic Plan with the help of the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation, Reconciliation Advisory Commitee, Community and Environment Advisory Committee, key stakeholders, staff and volunteers. We now invite the Phillip Island and Bass Coast community to have their say.
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Mid-2024 |
Early engagement and ideas collection with the Nature Parks staff, leaders, key stakeholders, Community and Environment Advisory Committee, Reconciliation Advisory Committee, Scientific Research Advisory Committee to help inform priorities. |
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Late-2024 |
Board adoption of key areas of impact identified in plan. |
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Early-2025 |
Continued engagement with Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation, Community and Environment Advisory Committee and Reconciliation Advisory Committee to refine the Strategic Plan’s priority areas and their impact. |
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Mid-2025 |
Staff and Volunteer engagement on proposed Strategic Plan. |
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Now |
Broad community engagement on Strategic Plan. |
Priority 1 – Bigger and better natural areas
Working together, our regenerative approach will enhance the island’s natural areas, fostering thriving ecosystems and wildlife that inspire awe and wonder, and increase the natural capital of Phillip Island (Milawul).
Priority 2 – Thriving wildlife
Phillip Island (Milawul) is a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, which thrive in urban agricultural and natural environments.
Priority 3 – Bunurong self-determination
The Nature Parks will support current and future generations of Traditional Owners to care for and respect Country through self-determination. The Nature Parks will work to embed Traditional Owner aspirations into our decision making, planning and management.
Priority 4 – Excellence in regenerative tourism
Our regenerative tourism will be world-leading, offering exceptional facilities, commercially and environmentally sustainable operations, and diverse, engaging visitor experiences that inspire people to take action for nature.
Priority 5 – Support a vibrant community
The Nature Parks envisages a vibrant island community supported by healthy ecosystems, accessible nature areas, and inclusive participation in local events, ensuring safe and welcoming access to the island’s natural treasures for all.
Priority 6 – Strong organisational foundations
Our strong organisational foundations will foster a culture of collaboration and innovation, support the wellbeing of our staff and maintain financial sustainability, to support our mission and long-term success.
These Strategy Priorities are expected to support the following key work on Phillip Island.
How to participate
Your experience and connection to Phillip Island (Milawul) and the Nature Parks is essential to our success and we invite you to share your thoughts to help shape our future. Feeback submissions close at 5 pm Tuesday 19 August, 2025.
Everyone is encouraged to participate:
Email your thoughts and ideas to community@penguins.org.au
Next steps
We will review all feedback received before finalising the plan, which will be published on our website.
