Government faces backlash over park access restrictions

By Taylah Baker

Nov 19, 2024

**State Member for Northern Victoria Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell has raised concerns about blocked access to parks with the Victorian Government.** Photo by Megan Fisher

Serious questions have been raised about the Victorian Government’s commitment to public access in state and national parks, amid reports of restrictive measures being enforced.

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After concerns were raised by constituents, state Member for Northern Victoria Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell called upon Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos in parliament to explain the placement of large boulders and felled trees blocking entrances to these public lands.

Additionally, she noted reports of locked gates keeping visitors at bay.

In her inquiry, Ms Tyrrell recalled promises made by both Mr Dimopoulos and Premier Jacinta Allan in September, who assured the community they would not be locked out of the parks.

“Premier Jacinta Allan publicly and categorically made a promise to all Victorians that she would not restrict public access to our beautiful state and national parks, and she has seemingly betrayed the public by breaking her promise,” Mrs Tyrrell said.

In a supplementary question to Mr Dimopoulos, Mrs Tyrrell highlighted the approaching fire season.

She asked how emergency services were expected to protect our bushland from fire now that access to the parks was blocked, and what safety risks these barriers posed.

Mr Dimopoulos has until the end of the week to respond to these inquiries.