Towards a good practice user pays system for Australian protected areas

Abstract

This paper presents results from research into the spectrum of protected area user pays systems in Australia based on a review of the literature and interviews with protected area managers. The project aimed to identify examples of good practice across a diversity of systems in order to provide guidelines for an effective approach to user pays management. It was found user pays systems are unique to each State and significantly shaped by state based political and historical influences. A one size fits all model for Australia is not practical though some key good practice elements were identified for future improvement of user pays systems.