The vast majority of properties in the National Reserve System are national parks or public reserves, almost all open to the public. Where and when you can visit is determined by the management plan for the property. For example, there may be areas with sensitive plants and animals where disturbance by visitors is not appropriate. In some reserves there may be restrictions to Indigenous sacred sites or dangerous old mine sites.
Some protected areas need considerable work to make them ready for public access, because they are being converted from private land to public reserve. Risks to visitors need to be assessed and reduced and facilities like roads, signs and campgrounds need to be developed to cater for new visitors.
Properties on private land include protected areas established by conservation organisations, community groups, Indigenous groups and private landholders. Public access is determined through the management planning process. As with any private land, access is by invitation only. There may be signs, publications and web pages that advise of the times and conditions of access
Many of the larger groups have open days or volunteer programs where visitors are welcome. Some run tours or have tourism facilities such as walking trails and campgrounds that provide opportunities for access to the property.
Please respect landowner's rights by contacting them about access times and conditions if you are at all unsure.
For help contacting landowners see the state and territory contacts.