Motorsport Australia would like to update you on matters relating to the Great Koala National Park (GKNP) project that may impact the future of rally in NSW.

Currently, the NSW Government is progressing plans for the Great Koala National Park, which will potentially rezone large areas of state forest into national park. These forests include regions that have historically been used for rally stages, testing, and club-level events – competitive motorsport activities.

The boundaries are not final. Consultation is ongoing, and the Government has acknowledged that potentially impacted recreation groups must be part of the process.

Motorsport Australia is actively representing your interests by consulting directly with NSW Government stakeholders, making formal submissions that highlight motorsport’s long record of safe and responsible use of state forests, advocating to maintain access to land, and requesting clear commitments to ensure motorsport access is not unintentionally removed.

Supporting critical themes include:

• Rally land access – rally participation depends on large public land areas and ongoing access agreements.
• Regional economic boost – Events inject millions into local towns through tourism, hospitality, and logistics.
• Community identity – Clubs act as social hubs, strengthening local pride and intergenerational connection.
• Youth inclusion – motorsport engages young people and underrepresented groups with skills, teamwork, and belonging.
• Mental wellbeing – Participation reduces isolation, supports social networks, and improves wellbeing in rural communities.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Your voice matters. As a recreational user, we encourage you to tick the ‘Car Rally’ box on the government website and register to stay informed.

Motorsport Australia will continue to safeguard the future of rallying and forest‑based motorsport while working respectfully within the broader conservation process. We will urge the Committee to recognise motorsport’s unique value to local communities and support fair, structured access to public land.

Thank you for your passion, patience, and support.