Hi,

 I understand from a Caravan and Motor Home Forum I subscribe to, that the Victorian Government is now charging fees to camp in what were previously free camping areas. One area in particular, dozens of camping spots along the coast from Paradise Beach thru Golden, Flamingo, Glomar beaches to Seaspray.

 It is understood the Government would like to recoup some or all of the cost of maintaining these facilities, however the charges advertised are far in excess of what members of our Forum are prepared to pay.

 As a result there are moves to boycott National Parks in Victoria, which no doubt will have the effect of reducing any revenue that maybe anticipated from these excessive charges.

 Thanks,

Reply: 

Dear Ken,

Thank you for your email regarding the changes to camping and accommodation fees. We appreciate and acknowledge the time you have spent to forward through this email.

We appreciate that changes to fees are not always popular, but the changes are necessary for us to maintain Victorias campgrounds.  New and revised prices for camping and accommodation now apply at 39 of the states parks.  This is part of our effort to make sure Victorians continue to have access to these beautiful places and that the costs of providing safe, visitor-friendly facilities and services are sustainable and affordable.

There are around 680 campgrounds and roofed accommodation in Victorias parks and reserves, costing significant public funds to maintain and operate each year.

Staying overnight in a park or reserve is a special experience. Campgrounds in parks and reserves allow visitors to stay in the heart of Victorias natural environment. It is a different experience to staying in a local caravan park, and has different costs associated with maintaining facilities in remote locations in our state and national parks.

The previous funding model was insufficient and the standard of facilities and maintenance across these sites will suffer unless changes are made. Even a basic site with minimal or no facilities requires ongoing maintenance to ensure it is a safe environment for campers.

A user-pays system was considered the fairest way to cover the costs of the services and facilities provided at campgrounds.  All revenue gathered through fees will go back into the park and maintenance of campsites and facilities, and securing their future for park visitors.  There are a number of parks where lower fees are charged, starting at $13 (peak) for up to six people and, a further 10% discount is available for means tested concession card holders. Options in Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park include: Red Bluff, Spoon Bay and Shoreline Drive campgrounds.

Should you require further advice on this matter please email camping@parks.vic.gov.au

State-wide Camping Project Officer | Parks Victoria