This is a critical time for our wildlife. Now, more than ever, our public reserve system is vital to protect our unique Australian plants and animals. To continue to be the cornerstone of Australia's biodiversity conservation strategy, the public reserve system must expand rapidly to protect increasing numbers of endangered species.

Despite the significant achievements in reserve building to date, nearly half of all terrestrial ecosystems in NSW remain poorly reserved and many are not protected in public reserves at all.

Recently, the NSW Government has delivered on its pre-election commitment to create the Dharawal National Park, a decision that will protect vulnerable wildlife in an iconic part of the Illawarra escarpment. However, more protection across NSW on this scale is essential if we are to fully implement the recommendations within the State Government’s National Parks Establishment Plan, which identifies priorities for building the terrestrial park and reserve system in NSW.

Not that further evidence is needed in support of national parks, but a recent publication by the CSIRO, Implications of Climate Change for Australia's National Reserve System (2008), reports that the national reserve system provides a robust and cost-effective means of providing for biodiversity protection in the face of climate change. The report further identifies that expansion of this system needs to accelerate.

As we approach the end of our 54^th year, NPA can look back with great pride on our role in building the national park estate. When NPA started in 1957 there was less than 1% of NSW in conservation reserves. Since that time, NPA’s active and unique network of advocates has worked with governments and conservation partners to help gain protection for 9% of NSW in national parks and reserves. Local advocacy still plays an important role in influencing our governments to invest more in nature protection.

With your help today we will continue our efforts to see faster action on the expansion of the NSW national parks system. A successful campaign will help save endangered habitats and wildlife from extinction.

We need your help to continue the huge job ahead of us and the active research and campaign work that is essential for success.

Please send your tax deductible donation to the National Parks Association now.

On receipt of your donation we will immediately send you a tax-deductible receipt. Download a donation form to donate to NPA today or click the button below to Donate Now.

On behalf of the team at NPA please accept our season’s greetings and warm wishes for the New Year.

Graeme Wiffen, President, National Parks Association NSW

P.S. I know it’s a busy time of year for you as Christmas approaches. If you prefer to make a donation by telephone just call the office on 9299 0000. Our campaign work depends on you.