New, unmistakable signs have been erected at the base of Uluru, delivering a stark warning to tourists: climbing the sacred rock is forbidden, and those who disobey will face astronomical fines.
The signs, installed by the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park board, clearly state that scaling the monolith could result in a penalty of up to $10,000 AUD – roughly £5,300 – and a federal court fine reaching a staggering $100,000 AUD (£53,000).
A Sacred Site, Not a Playground
The move reinforces the formal climbing ban that came into effect in October 2019, a landmark decision that honoured the deep spiritual significance of the site to the Anangu, the Traditional Owners. For generations, the Anangu have advocated for a ban, urging visitors to appreciate the rock's cultural importance from the ground.
The new signage leaves no room for ambiguity, explicitly stating that Uluru is a sacred place and that climbing is prohibited. This replaces the previous, more lenient signs that used phrases like 'please don't climb' out of respect for Anangu law.
Closing the Loophole
Park authorities have stated that the clearer, firmer language was necessary to eliminate any confusion after the official ban was instituted. The previous signs, while well-intentioned, were seen by some as a request rather than a enforceable law.
The decision to end the climbs was overwhelmingly supported, with the park board voting unanimously for the change. It marked the culmination of a long campaign to protect the site's environmental and cultural integrity.
How to Experience Uluru Respectfully
Visitors are encouraged to experience the world heritage-listed site in numerous ways that don't involve climbing. The park offers a wealth of activities, including:
- Guided walks around the base, led by Aboriginal guides who share ancient stories.
- Marveling at the spectacular colour changes of the rock at sunrise and sunset.
- Exploring the ancient rock art found in caves around Uluru.
- Learning about Tjukurpa, the traditional law and stories of the Anangu people.
The message is clear: the era of climbing Uluru is over. Today, respect and cultural understanding are the only paths forward for the millions who visit this incredible Australian icon.
