A renewed campaign to establish the proposed Great Southern Forest National Park is gaining attention in Tasmania, with environmental advocates calling for stronger protection of some of Australia's most significant native forests and wilderness landscapes.
The proposal seeks to create a large national park by linking and expanding existing protected areas across Tasmania's south-west and central highlands. Supporters say the park would preserve extensive tracts of old-growth forest, temperate rainforest and critical wildlife habitat while strengthening Tasmania's reputation as a global nature tourism destination. According to conservation groups, the proposed reserve would protect hundreds of thousands of hectares of native forest currently outside formal national park boundaries. Bob Brown Foundation
Advocates argue that the region contains ecosystems of international significance, including ancient forests that have remained largely unchanged for thousands of years. These landscapes provide habitat for a range of native species and contribute to carbon storage, water quality and broader environmental resilience.
The proposal has been championed by former Australian Greens leader Bob Brown and environmental organisations that believe additional protections are needed to prevent future logging and other forms of development in remaining native forest areas. Supporters say the park could become one of Australia's most important conservation projects.
Proponents also highlight the economic benefits they believe could flow from the initiative. Tasmania's wilderness attractions already draw visitors from around the world, and advocates argue a larger protected area could generate tourism opportunities, support regional businesses and create employment linked to eco-tourism and conservation management.
However, the proposal remains controversial. Forestry industry representatives and some regional communities have expressed concerns about potential impacts on timber production and employment. Critics argue that further restrictions on land use could affect businesses that rely on access to forest resources and may reduce economic opportunities in some areas.
The debate reflects broader discussions occurring across Australia about balancing environmental protection with economic development. Supporters of the national park say conservation and tourism can deliver long-term economic benefits, while opponents emphasise the importance of maintaining sustainable forestry operations and regional jobs.
Tasmania is already home to the internationally recognised Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, one of the world's largest temperate wilderness regions. Conservationists believe the Great Southern Forest proposal would complement existing protected areas by connecting important ecosystems and expanding habitat protection.
The renewed campaign comes amid growing public interest in biodiversity conservation, climate resilience and the preservation of old-growth forests. Environmental groups hope increased awareness will encourage governments to revisit the proposal and consider additional protections for vulnerable forest landscapes.
While no formal government commitment has been made, supporters continue to advocate for the project through public campaigns, community engagement and environmental research. They argue that preserving these forests would provide lasting environmental, cultural and economic benefits for future generations.
