Uluru (Ayers Rock) is one of the world’s most famous landmarks. Situated in Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park, this ancient monolith is Australia’s natural and cultural treasure. For thousands of years the site has been a sacred place for the traditional owners, the Aboriginal people, especially the Anangu community. But how many people actually live around this big rock?
This article looks at the populations around Uluru, Indigenous and non-Indigenous, tourism infrastructure and the history and culture of the area.
Do People Live on Uluru?
Uluru as a sacred site within Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park is unoccupied. It’s managed by Parks Australia, the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park board and the Anangu people. No one lives on the big rock but nearby communities like Mutitjulu and Yulara have residents and support the tourism economy.
Yulara: The Tourist Hub of Central Australia
Yulara (Ayers Rock Resort) is a small township 18kms from Uluru. It was built in the 1980s to accommodate the growing number of visitors to the national park while protecting the cultural and environmental values of the area.
- Population: 900 permanent residents, a mix of locals and tourism industry workers.
- Tourist Facilities: Hotels, lodges, European restaurants and other amenities, town square.
- Economic Role: Seasonal workers arrive during peak tourist season to support tourism infrastructure around the park.
Yulara’s design minimises its footprint while providing modern comforts for visitors to Ayers Rock and Kata Tjuta.
Mutitjulu: The Indigenous Heart
At the base of Uluru is Mutitjulu, a small Aboriginal community and the heart of the traditional owners’ connection to the land. About 300-400 people live in this community which is the administration centre for local Indigenous affairs and cultural preservation.
- Anangu Land: Mutitjulu residents, mostly Anangu people, manage cultural tourism and work with the Northern Territory Government to protect Aboriginal land through the Community Development Program.
- Cultural Significance: Mutitjulu is important for passing down stories from the creation period and is closely tied to the spiritual stories of Uluru and Mount Olga (Kata Tjuta).
Indigenous and Archaeological Significance
For thousands of years archaeological evidence shows that Aboriginal people have been in and around the area now known as Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park. These include tools, art and physical evidence of early human activity.
- The Creation Story: Indigenous Australians see Uluru as a spiritual place connected to their creation story, with sites around the rock being of great ceremonial significance.
- Aboriginal Reserves: In the 19th century parts of the land were declared as Aboriginal reserves and in the 21st century it was returned to the traditional owners under the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Land Rights Act.
Seasonal Workers and Tourism Infrastructure
Tourism is a major part of the economy and society of the Uluru region. The Northern Territory Government and Australian government have worked together to develop a tourism industry that respects the area’s cultural values.
- Seasonal workers in hospitality, conservation and guiding services increase the resident population of Yulara.
- Infrastructure development – accommodation, food stores and art centres – ensures visitors have what they need while minimising environmental impact.
Living in the Desert
The desert environment of Central Australia presents challenges for residents and workers:
- Long Term Health Conditions: People living in remote areas have limited access to health services and live with selected long term health conditions.
- Heavy Rain: Seasonal mud after rain and temperature fluctuations impact on transport and infrastructure.
- Wildlife Interactions: The Western Desert ecosystem, home to the desert skink, requires management to coexist with human activity.
Kata Tjuta: The Other Rock
While Uluru gets all the attention, Kata Tjuṯa (also known as Mount Olga) is another amazing rock within the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park. These domed formations were formed during an ancient period of mountain building and are made up of layers of sand that were once sand dunes.
Kata Tjuṯa is a sacred site for the Anangu people, often over shadowed by Uluru but equally important in spiritual and geological terms. It’s worth a visit if you are in Mount Olga National Park or driving on the Highway from Uluru.
Cultural Preservation and the Role of Australian Governments
The Australian Department of the Environment and Water Resources and organisations like the Australian Institute of Aboriginal Studies work closely with the Anangu people to preserve the cultural values and environment of the area. These efforts ensure the sustainable coexistence of tourism, cultural heritage, and the region’s delicate ecosystem.
Nearby Tour Destinations
Beyond Uluru, visitors can explore several incredible attractions that showcase the natural beauty and cultural richness of Central Australia:
- Kings Canyon: Known for its dramatic sandstone cliffs, Kings Canyon is a must-visit destination located within Watarrka National Park. Its scenic rim walk offers breathtaking views and insights into the area’s geological history, which dates back to an episode of mountain building millions of years ago.
- Kata Tjuta (Mount Olga): Also within Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park, Kata Tjuta is a collection of towering rock domes with significant cultural and spiritual meaning for the Anangu people. Visitors can explore its stunning trails, including the Valley of the Winds walk, and marvel at its rock types and layers of sand formations.
- Alice Springs: As the nearest major town, Alice Springs serves as a gateway to exploring the Northern Territory. It’s a vibrant cultural hub offering insights into Aboriginal land, art, and history, making it a great addition to an Uluru itinerary.
To experience these destinations and more, consider booking with Autopia Tours, a trusted tour operator offering immersive experiences in Central Australia.
Conclusion
No one lives on Ayers Rock, but the surrounding communities of Mutitjulu and Yulara are important in the protection of the cultural and environmental values of Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park. With a small permanent population, seasonal workers, and thousands of years of history, the Uluru region is the hub of tourism and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore this remarkable area through experiences like the 3 day Uluru tour or Uluru tours from Alice Springs. The balance between modern tourism and the traditional owners’ care means this iconic Central Australian landmark will continue to inspire for generations to come.
FAQs
Can people live on Uluru?
No, Uluru is a sacred site within Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park. Nearby communities of Mutitjulu and Yulara are where residents live.
Who are the traditional owners of Uluru?
The Anangu people are the traditional owners of Uluru and the surrounding area.
How many people live in Yulara?
Yulara has 900 permanent residents and additional seasonal workers during peak season.
What is Kata Tjuta?
Kata Tjuta, or Mount Olga, is a sacred site of geological and cultural significance near Uluru.
How far is Alice Springs from Uluru?
Alice Springs is approximately 450 kilometres from Uluru, making it the nearest major town.