Grey nomads threaten Tassie boycott

The Tasmanian Government has hosed down fears that RV users will lose the option of low-cost RV camping on the Apple Isle.

Tasmanian Deputy Premier Bryan Green said a review being undertaken of council-managed camping services wouldn’t mean the end of low cost services and force people into caravan parks.

The government is currently considering a discussion paper, which recommends local councils that provide services such as water, toilets, rubbish disposal and grey water disposal should charge the full cost of these services, instead of giving them away or charging a nominal fee.

The move follows complaints to the Tasmanian Economic Regulator from caravan site owners about councils providing free or low-priced overnight RV camping services.

However, caravan and motorhome groups representing many of Australia’s estimated 500,000 RV users are up in arms, threatening to boycott Tasmania if a proposal to cut free campsites goes ahead

"There seems to be a misunderstanding that there will be no low cost options following the review," Green said. "The feedback from councils is that they are keen to keep prices as low as possible from around $5 per night.

"The Government is not supportive of a process that will jeopardise low cost camping services for people travelling in self-contained vehicles."
 
Green said the review only covered local government-owned services to make sure they charge appropriate prices to recovers costs.
 
"Currently, toilet, water and other facilities are being provided at the expense of ratepayers. This is not fair on tax-payers or local businesses."
 
"This review will make sure that where those services are in competition with a private caravan park that they compete on a level playing field."
 
However, RV advocates are concerned about Tasmania becoming unaffordable as a touring holiday destination, especially for grey nomads who currently spend up to $2000 to bring their rigs across Bass Strait on a ferry.

"People love coming to Tassie and this is like having a toffee apple taken out of their mouth," said Ken Kipping from the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia, which has around 75,000 members.

"Tasmania has been considered one of the most, if not the most, RV-friendly states. They already spent some nights at caravan parks. Travellers are happy to pay a small fee to help cover costs."

The public consultation phase of the review was completed earlier this week and the Government will now consider its recommendations before making any changes.