Camping fee hikes for Victorian parks
Camping in Victorian national parks set to become more expensive next year with new, user pays systemThe Victorian Government wants to introduce more camping fees, as well as raise existing ones, to avoid having to shut camp grounds within Victoria’s national parks.
According to a regulatory impact statement released last month, the state government is proposing a “more sustainable user pays system” to “ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy our parks and forests”.
The government says the current system is not sustainable, with annual campground fees and charges of $6.5 million not enough to cover the annual $17.8 million cost of providing campground services and facilities.
The proposed changes, set to be introduced on 1 March 2014, will also address “inconsistency” in camping fees. According to a 2010 Deakin University research report, there are currently 12 pricing levels for camping, with site fees ranging from $5.60 to $48 per night.
Although various options have been put forward, the government’s preferred option would include increases of $4 (to $18) for a basic site, and $11 (to $66) for a powered site in a well-serviced campground, during peak periods.
Roofed accommodation at facilities such as Wilson's Prom will also be included, with increases of as much as $86 (from $89 to $175) proposed for some huts during peak period.
Camping fee rises are proposed for 24 national parks, whereas 11 other national parks including Baw Baw, Bunyip and Mornington Peninsula which currently offer free camping are set to have fees introduced.
Victorian Environment and Climate Change minister, Ryan Smith said the “modest changes” will not affect Victoria's status as one of the most affordable states with regard to camping in national parks.
"There are 133 parks and reserves across Victoria and only 24 charge a fee for the use of the facilities,” he said. “This has resulted in the cost of providing and maintaining these facilities outstripping the revenue generated by more than $10 million each and every year.
"By introducing a system where users pay for the standard of facilities and services provided at camping grounds, Parks Victoria will have the funds needed to operate within its means.”
The RIS is available for review and comments by clicking here.
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