New digital keys protect parks and reserves


Released 13/07/2016

The ACT Parks and Conservation Service is trialling new electronic keys and locks at a number of gates within national parks which will allow better management and monitoring of access to these areas.

“This cutting edge cyber lock system matches digital keys with specific locks, allowing us to see which keys are opening which gates and also restrict or cancel access for certain keys, all from a central location,” ACT Parks and Conservation Service Regional Manager, Brett McNamara said.

“This sort of technology is more commonly used at major sporting arenas and airports, but it has the potential to be very useful in managing access to our conservation estate.

“ACT Parks and Conservation manages hundreds of locks on gates around the region with thousands of keys. It is a massive job to keep track of everything. If successful, this new system will allow us to know exactly who has keys and what these keys can access.

“The keys and locks record a comprehensive audit trail of usage, offering an opportunity to ensure the overall integrity of the lock system.

“With the cyber lock system it is possible for us to issue temporary keys to contractors, researchers and other visitors that have a requirement to visit our parks and reserves. These keys will be able to open specific locks for a designated period of time and will then switch off after that time.

“Individual keys can also be programmed to only open locks during work hours on weekdays.

“If as a result of this trial the system proves to be successful it will also help us reduce illegal entry into parks and reserves, as the digital locks and keys must be programmed and approved by ACT Government staff, greatly reducing the possibility of illegal copies being made.

“Interestingly, to the casual observer the electronic locks are virtually indistinguishable from our existing locks, allowing for relatively  seamless integration into existing gates. “A number of relevant stakeholders who require access to our parks and reserves, including the ACT Emergency Services Agency and ACT Policing will be participating in this trial. The trial will run through to the end of September this year at which point we will review how applicable this kind of technology is to a large conservation estate.”

- Statement ends -

ACT Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate | Media Releases

Media Contacts

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Mayumi Smith

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0401 766 218

mayumi.smith@act.gov.au


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