Inquiry launched on access to publicly owned land and waterways in NSW.

The NSW Select Committee on Access Restrictions to Public Lands and Waterways has launched an inquiry on access to publicly owned land and waterways in NSW.

This included national parks, marine reserves, crown land, state forests, water catchments and Aboriginal land.

Committee chair, the Hon Mark Banasiak MLC, said that many activities are banned or restricted on some public lands, including recreational activities such as four-wheel-driving, shooting, horse riding, hiking, rock climbing, camping and fishing.

“The committee would like to investigate the extent and rationale to access restrictions across public lands and waterways, including the balance between environmental protection, cultural heritage preservation and public access,” Mr Banasiak said.

He noted that restrictions to access can have an impact on local communities, recreational users and industries such as tourism, forestry and agriculture.

The inquiry will examine the legislative and regulatory frameworks governing access restrictions and the consultation processes used when access is restricted or reviewed for public lands and waterways.

Mr Banasiak went on to say ‘I am looking forward to hearing from a range of stakeholders who are interesting in using public lands and waterways, whether it be for recreation use such as mountain biking, climbing or four-wheel driving, or to run a business such as outdoor adventure tourism.’

Public submissions are open until August 1.