Major milestone for More Rangers, Better Neighbours program

• More than 50 rangers have been appointed under the Crisafulli Government’s More Rangers, Better Neighbours program.
• This is a significant milestone with one third of this major election commitment now delivered.
• The Crisafulli Government is delivering to preserve Queensland’s world-renowned natural environment after a decade of decline under Labor.  

The Crisafulli Government has hit a major milestone for its More Rangers, Better Neighbours commitment with one third of the election promise delivered. 

In a major milestone, there has now been 53 positions filled, following the commitment to deliver 150 extra rangers over four years for Queensland Parks and Wildlife Services, including 30 Indigenous Land and Sea rangers.  

People who have experience in park management or have demonstrated a unique skillset in fire management, weed and feral animal control were appointed to the positions. 

At the same time, more than 900 people have applied for advertised new entry level ranger positions. 

The recruitment for the 30 Indigenous Land and Sea Ranger positions has also hit a significant milestone, as the expressions of interest closed this month. 

Park rangers collaborate with hundreds of community volunteers every year, so more rangers deliver better connection and collaboration with local communities and neighbours.

Under the former Labor Government, national parks were the worst neighbours could have.  

The Crisafulli Government is focused on managing invasive species in Queensland’s parks and forests to protect threatened plants and animals, and reduce impacts on nearby communities, after the former Labor Government locked-up the state’s natural assets and left neighbouring communities without any support.  

Minister for the Environment Andrew Powell said the Crisafulli Government was delivering real environmental protection by backing rangers on the ground. 

“We committed to strengthening protected area management and we’re delivering for Queenslanders with more rangers and better outcomes,” Minister Powell said. 

“More Rangers, Better Neighbours means tackling weeds, feral animals and working with locals through a whole-of-community approach. 

“After a decade of Labor failure this milestone proves we are delivering genuine environmental reform where Labor failed to lead.” 

National Park Association of Queensland CEO Chris Thomas said more rangers would encourage safe and sustainable visitation that inspired an ongoing love for nature and concern for the environment.