A NSW Government website

Protection and management

We are primarily responsible for the direct management of land, assets and infrastructure, property management services and the oversight of a network of professional and volunteer managers.

Men looking at Aboriginal artwork. Credit: Destination NSW

We are working to return Aboriginal land to its original owners, and to support native title rights over land or water.

Bike riders on the Tumbarumba to Rosewood rail trail.

We manage a variety of built and natural assets including coastal infrastructure, walking tracks, dams, lighthouses and historical buildings. We also provide support to Crown land managers to manage built assets on reserves.

Bushland creek, Dungog Common NSW

We have an active and risk-based compliance and enforcement regime to help protect Crown land against illegal activity that threatens environmental values or the enjoyment of Crown land users.

Aerial view of Lake Ainsworth caravan park, Lennox Head

The department has established an expression of interest process for individuals and/or organisations interested in being considered for Crown reserve administrator roles.

Telegraph pole in field

Easements generally give someone the right to access and use land while the legal title or ownership of the land remains with its owner. An easement does not grant ownership of the land.

Aerial view of bushwalkers in national park.

We are responsible for managing our natural assets including weed and pest control, revegetation, illegal dumping, waterway management, recreational access, and sediment and erosion control.