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Veterans will have greater and now free access to national parks in NSW under a free vehicle access plan for all Commonwealth Veteran Card holders.
The 2025–26 NSW budget measure will enable more veterans from around Australia to apply for a free pass to enter the 45 national parks in the state where a vehicle entry fee applies.
The pass is currently available for some categories of Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) Gold Card holders, and this decision by the NSW government will ensure all DVA Veteran Card holders are able to apply, including those with a White Card or Orange Card.
It will increase veteran access to the network of national parks and have the added benefit of boosting veterans’ physical and mental health.
NSW has a network of 895 national parks and reserves that conserve close to 10 per cent of the state, protecting unique ecosystems across deserts, Alpine regions, coastal areas, rainforest and Ramsar-listed wetlands.
“Our veterans have given so much to Australia; this is about giving something small but meaningful back,” Premier Chris Minns said.
“Access to nature can have a powerful impact on wellbeing, and we’re proud to reward more veterans with free vehicle entry to enjoy these incredible places.
“The invite to visit the best national parks in the country extends to all those who’ve served our nation, whether you’re from NSW or interstate.”
Only 5 per cent of parks and reserves in NSW have vehicle entry fees. They range from $4 to $12 a day and up to $29 a day for Kosciuszko National Park in winter. Removing the charge will make it easier for all Commonwealth DVA Veteran Card holders to enjoy more of these natural wonderlands.
Commonwealth DVA Veteran Card holders will be able to apply for the pass from Monday, 7 July 2025, by visiting https://pass.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/concession/application.
“National parks are one of NSW’s greatest public assets, which are loved by people from within our state, across Australia and internationally,” Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe said.
“The Minns Labor government is pleased to be able to provide this opportunity, to help all DVA Veterans Card holders enjoy them. This is a small way we can thank veterans for their service.”
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service also offers discount or concession annual passes for eligible seniors, pensioners and visitors who renew their NSW vehicle registration.
“Veterans served in defence of this great land, so it makes sense that they have earnt free access to our beautiful national parks,” Minister for Veterans David Harris said.
“We know that many NSW servicemen and servicewomen carry injuries or mental and emotional impacts from their service, so it is important to make it easier for them to access the restorative powers of our state’s great outdoors.”
