After more than 30 years, the Koongarra area at the heart of Kakadu has made the world heritage list.

The World Heritage Committee announced on Monday it had decided to include Koongarra - a 1228 hectare site with important indigenous links - as part of the Kakadu World Heritage Area.

Koongarra was originally excluded from the park in 1979 because of its potential uranium resources.

Environment Minister Tony Burke welcomed the decision saying it will help protect Koongarra for generations to come.

"The world is acknowledging what traditional owner Jeffrey Lee has always known - that Koongarra is one of the most precious places on earth," he said in a statement.

"This historic decision reflects the international importance of Koongarra and is testament to the untiring work of Mr Lee, who has fought for years to preserve his country for future generations."

The listing recognises Koongarra's proximity to Nourlangie Rock, a major Aboriginal rock art site.

"Nourlangie Rock looks out over Koongarra, so this World Heritage listing will ensure the protection and integrity of more than 20,000 years of our Indigenous history and culture," Mr Burke said.

There are some legal steps the government will need to finalise before Koongarra is officially included as part of Kakadu National Park.

It means the area will be fully protected under law and mining prohibited, he said.