National parks can no longer be considered as pristine ecosystems prot
ected by impenetrable boundaries. It is now realised that many forces
outside national park boundaries create significant changes within tho
se boundaries. To date, most attention has focussed upon penetration b
y biophysical factors. This paper addresses another aspect, external i
nfluence over decision making in the parks. It suggests that three mai
n groups - entrepreneurs, environmentalists, and aboriginal peoples -
have been dominant in different time periods, and uses case studies to
illustrate the rise to current prominence of aboriginal peoples. Reas
ons are suggested for this ascendancy.