Watarrka National Park has been placed on the National Heritage List in recognition of the site's historical heritage value to Australia.
On the lands of Anangu ngurraritja in the Northern Territory 320km southwest of Mparntwe/Alice Springs, Watarrka continues to be a place where traditions, customs and beliefs are handed down through generations.
It has been recognised for its remarkable living cultural landscape, with the physical manifestation of the Tjukurrpa (Dreaming) and is protected by songs, ceremonies, and culture of Anangu ngurraritja.
"Preserving First Nations cultural heritage is vital to keeping the story of our nation alive," Minister for Indigenous Australians, Malarndirri McCarthy said.
"Placing Watarrka National Park on the National Heritage List amongst other significant sites ensures the Anangu ngurraritja people can continue to protect their heritage."
Watarrka contains an abundance of Australian plants and animals - with more than 690 known native plant species, including the Swamp Lily, the water penny beetle, and the aquatic Pennywort - and often contains water when all other areas are dry.
They all have relationships with animals present in the landscape 18,000 years ago, in a much wetter era, showing the vital importance of Watarrka's local aquifers in sustaining permanent surface water.
"By working with Traditional Owners and supporting them to care for and protect their country, we can preserve the natural and cultural values of important sites like Watarrka National Park for generations to come," Minister McCarthy said.
Lingiari MP Marion Scrymgour said she welcomed the inclusion of Watarrka on the National Heritage List, joining other NT landmarks including the Wave Hill Walk Off Route, Hermannsburg Historic Precinct, Uluru-Kata Tjuta and Kakadu National Parks.
"This is an important step towards maintaining this special place in consultation with Traditional Owners, who have managed these lands for thousands of years," Ms Scrymgour said.
Internationally famous, Watarrka's landscape includes Kings Canyon, described as a living plant museum, as well as Mereenie Sandstone, featuring geometric patterns formed over 400 million years.
Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek said Watarrka is "deeply important" to Anangu ngurraritja, who have cared for the Country for thousands of years.
"Known for its majestic ranges and diverse flora, Watarrka is one of the most visited parks in the Alice Springs region and supports rare and threatened plant species," Minister Plibersek said.
"By including Watarrka National Park on the National Heritage List, we are supporting Traditional Owners to protect and manage the park's natural and cultural values for future generations."
