Planning a camping trip this summer? Before you pack your generator, take some time to read the generator rules for national parks across Australia.
Nothing beats the convenience of portable power. For some, that may be solar and battery packs, and for others it may be a modern camping generator - and there's no time like the summer months to get out there and test out your new ultra lightweight portable units. But there are some limitations on where and how your generator can be used in the great outdoors - especially if you're planning on heading out into one of our spectacular national parks.
Why? Because no matter how quiet and efficient your generator is, they can be deemed by some authorities to disturb wildlife or fellow campers.
To help, we've put together a guide to the rules and regulations per state. But rules are changing all the time so always make sure you double check the relevant website for the most up-to-date guidelines:
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Generators can generally be used in campsites in WA's national parks and state forests, so long as it is between the hours of 8am and 9pm. However there are a few exceptions to the rule, so double check the website https://nt.gov.au/ before you go.
NEW SOUTH WALES
Generators are permitted within NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) campgrounds, with some restrictions. It's your responsibility to check the regulations according to the individual campground. Generally, the following rules apply:
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Only one generator per group
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Generator should be located close to your camp
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There may be noise curfews depending on the campground
There may also be additional seasonal restrictions, for example when birds are roosting and for safety reasons (such as a local fire ban), so always check with the local NPWS offices before you go. For more information visit https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/safety/camping
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
South Australia is pretty strict on generators, and they are not allowed in many parks. The exception to the rules is if you require a generator for medical reasons, in which case you should contact the DEWNR District Office for special permission. For more information visit https://www.environment.sa.gov.au/parks/Visiting/General_information
NORTHERN TERRITORY
In NT, the generator rules vary from park to park. The best thing to do is visit the website www.nt.gov.au/nreta/parks/pdf/Camping09_LR.pdf or https://www.parksaustralia.gov.au.
QUEENSLAND
There are a number of camping areas around Queensland that allow generator use - you can find an up-to-date list on the parks website: https://nprsr.qld.gov.au/experiences/camping/generators.html
Again, there are special considerations made if you are suffering from a medical condition that required you to run an appliance.
Where generator use is allowed, there are usually restrictions on noise level output and hours of use. For example, some parks only allow low decibel generators with a maximum noise level of 65 dBA.
VICTORIA
Generator rules vary throughout Victoria. Popular areas that do not allow generators include Wilsons Promontory National Park and the Grampians National Park. For all other parks, visit www.parkweb.vic.gov.au for information.
TASMANIA
In Tasmania, generator rules vary depending on the park. Popular parks that do not allow generators include Mt Field National Park and Southwest National Park. Visit https://www.parks.tas.gov.au for the most up-to-date guidelines.
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The bottom line is to take the time to know the National Park regulations before you go - chances are there will be some parks where you can use your generator and some you can't. But it's always best to know! If you are going to take a generator and want the quietest possible option, then check out the super silent Yamaha EF1000is:
For more advice on camping generators, browse the full range of Recreational Generators at My Generator.
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DISCLAIMER* Please note, this advice is general in nature and we strongly recommend consulting the product manual and where relevant, a professional installer.
