Welcome to The Australian Geoparks Network

What is a Geopark?

Geoparks are primarily geological areas which have unique or interesting features. They were created by a branch of the United Nations called the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) which focuses on environmental sustainability and conservation.

The geological importance of a Geopark is the foundation for the park to act as a catalyst for regional socioeconomic development via geotourism. This development will be fueled by the conservation and education of the significant geological features. A key aspect of Geoparks is that they are driven from the grassroots throughout the development process which has numerous benefits over a top down approach. A major benefit of this approach is that important decisions regarding the Geopark will be made by people who have a long lasting commitment to and knowledge of the region as local members of the community.

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Three Sisters Walk, Blue Mountains - Angus M Robinson cropped2

Global Geoparks

UNESCO Global Geoparks are single, unified geographical areas where sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed with a holistic concept of protection, education and sustainable development. Their bottom-up approach of combining conservation with sustainable development while involving local communities is becoming increasingly popular. At present, there are 213 UNESCO Global Geoparks in 48 countries. They are all institutional members of the Global Geoparks Network.

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Australian Geoparks

While Australia does not currently have any Geoparks, there are numerous Geoparks in numerous states which are either interested in creating Geoparks or already in the developmental process.

In response to this Australian Geopark activity, a website showcasing these nascent Geoparks ought to be created to both generate interest and be a source of reliable information.

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Geoparks are the vehicle for:

Economic Growth

Geoparks stimulate the economy through geotourism with visitors supporting the industries that conserve and showcase these locations. 

Job Creation

Geoparks create jobs through the business opportunities that arise through their conservation, research, and geotourism potential.

Community Well-Being

Geopark attractions provide nearby communities the opportunity to connect and spend time with one another as it becomes a uniting destination.

Cultural Revival

Tourism and community engagement allow Geoparks to become a location and starting point for cultural activities to take place.

Scientific Research

Research on Geoparks reveals a rich history of the location’s geological and archaeological past, making them significant primary sources.

Conservation

Recognising these sites enables them to be protected through legislative and regulatory bodies which promotes their ongoing preservation.

Tourism Development

The recreational activities provided by Geoparks present a unique experience that can be utilized for tourism as a means for promotion and commercial development.

Aboriginal Enterprise

In recognising the Aboriginal ties to the land creates a unique opportunity for Indigenous Australians to educate and present the significance of the site.

Educational Links

The opportunity to share discoveries made through research of the site by scientists can be catalogued and made accessible for educators.

A Global Network

Connecting these locations as part of a larger global network (UNESCO) enables their further protection as an international site of significance.

News & Events

Read articles on news and upcoming and past events

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