Bundy's Cultural Tours, Dampier Peninsula. Photo Credit Tourism Western Australia
Couple at The Pinnacles, Nambung National Park. Photo Credit: Tourism Western Australia
Photo Credit: Tourism Western Australia
Couple on a scenic flight over Lake Hillier, Middle Island. Photo Credit:Tourism Western Australia
Photo Credit:Tourism Western Australia
Yarning Circle at Oongkalkada, Uptuyu Aboriginal Adventures. Photo Credit:Tourism Western Australia
Z Bend River Trail, Kalbarri National Park. Photo Credit:Tourism Western Australia
Lucky Bay, Cape Le Grand National Park. Photo Credit:Tourism Western Australia

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.

LEARN MORE

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.

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.

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.

Resources

Here are some great Geoparks resources

News & Events

Read articles on news and upcoming and past events

Genestream journey sculptures trail opens in Manjimup and Denmark

How exciting it is to assist with the launch of a new product. Well, it is more than a product. It is the result of extended collaboration across the nation. Over the 8 and 9 March weekend two physical sculptures were opened to the public and gifted to the Shires of Manjimup (Northcliffe location) and..Read More

May 13, 20250

UNESCO announces 16 new global geoparks

In April 2025, UNESCO designated 16 new geoparks, bringing the total number of sites in the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network to 229 in 50 countries. The network now covers an area of almost 855,000 km², equivalent to the size of Namibia. The UNESCO Global Geoparks Network, which this year celebrates its 10th anniversary, brings together..Read More

May 13, 20250

Bindjareb-Peel Geodrive trail launched

Well, we were expecting to get wet, but the day turned out to be perfect for the launch of the much-vaunted Binjareb-Peel Geodrive Trail. The Honourable Don Punch Minister for Regional Development; Disability Services; Fisheries; Seniors and Ageing; Volunteering came to launch the geodrive and he was accompanied by the Honourable David Templeman MLA Member..Read More

September 3, 20240

Nannup WA Geopark Receives Grant

The Nannup Geopark Proposal has been granted $98,035 under the Native Forestry Transition, Community Small Grant Fund (CSGF). The CSGF is part of the Government’s Native Forestry Transition Plan to support affected workers, businesses and regional communities through the transition from commercial logging of our native forests. not trigger restrictions or limitations of access or..Read More

September 29, 20232

Exciting visit to the Murchison Georegion by the WA Minister for Regional Development

Minister MacTiernan enjoyed a visit to the Granites in the Murchison Georegion during her visit to Mt Magnet in Western Australian. The Granites are vested to the Badimia Land Aboriginal Corporation (BLAK). BLAK has experienced a revitalisation in communication between their generations, and of culture during the time they have been working on The Granites...Read More

April 28, 20210

Subscribe For Updates

Keep up-to-date with the latest from The Australian Geoparks Network