It has been announced Twin Falls Gorge in the heart of the World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park will reopen in 2026.
Having been closed for major upgrades, new artist renderings show elevated and interconnected boardwalks which wrap around the iconic site.
"Kakadu National Park has long been one of the jewels of the Northern Territory, attracting visitors from all over Australia and the world with its spectacular natural beauty and rich Indigenous heritage, Minister for Indigenous Australians, Malarndirri McCarthy, said.
Environment Minister, Tanya Plibersek, said for "far too long," people have been unable to experience one of the site's most iconic and storied areas in the Twin Falls Gorge.
"The Australian Government is investing in this stunning new boardwalk and lookout to support local jobs and revitalise tourism in Kakadu, providing visitors from around Australia and the world with another reason to visit the World Heritage-listed wonder," Minister Plibersek said.
The new artist impression shows a cantilevered staircase across the escarpment, giving visitors a view of the gorge and the 150-metre-high waterfalls, whilst the day use area and car park will also be revitalised.
Part of the federal government's $216 million infrastructure upgrade at Kakadu designed to help boost jobs and tourism, the entire design has been developed in consultation and with the support of Traditional Owners.
The Gorge is a significant site for Traditional Owners, as well as one of the country's major tourist spots.
"Working with Traditional Owners to ensure visitors can once again experience Twin Falls gorge will further enrich this experience and provide an added boost to the region's tourism sector and the communities it supports," Minister McCarthy said.
Sacred site clearance has been managed through the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority, who have consulted with Traditional Owners.
Member for Lingiari, Marion Scrymgour, said the upgrade would "enhance tourist experiences" of the living landscape at Kakadu, as well the areas "exceptional natural and cultural values".
"This major upgrade will see the development of new elevated and interconnected boardwalks and walkways," Ms Scrymgour said.
"This critical infrastructure will not only contribute to local jobs and enhanced tourism opportunities, it will also allow exploration of sensitive sites without the risk of damage or erosion to the environment".
Works are expected to start in the 2025 dry season.
