Tomorrow marks the 25th anniversary of the Greater Blue Mountains Area’s inscription on the
UNESCO World Heritage List, recognising its international significance and the community’s
enduring commitment to protecting it.
Listed in December 2000, the Greater Blue Mountains Area encompasses more than 1 million
hectares of eucalypt-dominated forest, stretching from the Hunter Valley in the north to the
Southern Highlands in the south.
The area spans the traditional Country of the Darkinjung, Dharawal, Dharug, Gundungurra,
Wiradjuri and Wonnarua Aboriginal peoples.
It is home to ancient plants, diverse wildlife, threatened species and landscapes that have inspired generations of conservationists, artists, scientists and storytellers.
The area also encompasses the only wild population of the famed Wollemi Pine, more than 90
eucalypt types and a host of other iconic native species.
The Greater Blue Mountains Area represents the very best of Australia’s natural heritage – with its ancient ecosystems and breathtaking scenery, it forms a living cultural landscape.
This anniversary is a celebration of the people, past and present, who continue to care for Country, and reminds us that the health of this landscape is tied to our future.
The UNESCO World Heritage List recognises and protects areas of outstanding universal value.
The Greater Blue Mountains Area is listed alongside only three other World Heritage Areas
(Natural) in NSW – the Willandra Lakes Region, Lord Howe Island and the Gondwana Rainforests
of Australia.
To mark the milestone, a community celebration will be held at Govetts Leap in the Blue Mountains National Park on 29 November 2025.

Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman said:

“This milestone is both a celebration and a call to action to honour the area’s universal value –
ensuring it remains safeguarded long into the future.
“Whether it’s our multi-million dollar funding to create a koala stronghold, our investment in bushfire
response and feral animals, or our action on climate change, there’s nowhere that this work is more important than in the unique Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area.”

NSW Parliamentary Secretary for the Environment and Member for Blue Mountains, Trish
Doyle said:

“Being recognised on the world stage for 25 years is a testament to our shared commitment to
conservation and protecting this simply extraordinary landscape.
“It’s a privilege to live, work, and play in an area that belongs not just to us, but to the world.
“The Greater Blue Mountains Area remains one of Australia’s most visited natural destinations,
attracting millions of visitors each year and supporting local economies through nature-based
tourism.
“As we celebrate this 25-year milestone, the message is clear – protecting the World Heritage values of the Blue Mountains today ensures future generations can continue to experience its wonder tomorrow.”

Mayor of the Blue Mountains City Council, Cr Mark Greenhill OAM said:
“It is both an incredible privilege and responsibility to manage one of only two cities in the world
located within a UNESCO World Heritage Area.
“Surrounded by rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems of universal significance, our Council strives to protect the irreplaceable legacy of this area for generations to come.
“Not only are we celebrating 25-years of recognition on the world stage, but we are also marking our dedication to continue this journey of protection into the future.”

Media:
Susan Templeman MP | Lisa Jeffery, 0427 178 623
Trish Doyle MP | Ira Brenner, 0417 873 436