A regional council in Western Australia has launched a major offensive against illegal camping, admitting that previous attempts to curb the problem have completely failed.
New Measures and Heftier Penalties
The Shire of Augusta-Margaret River is rolling out a suite of new strategies, starting with a significant financial deterrent. The fine for illegal camping will double from $100 to $200 in an immediate effort to dissuade offenders.
Council President Julia Jean-Rice stated that the impacts on the local community are severe and daily. She highlighted issues including human waste in public spaces, safety concerns in car parks, reduced beach access, and significant pressure on local amenities.
"We know it's been a persistent issue, and our aim is to work more transparently and collaboratively with our community to better manage it," Ms Jean-Rice explained.
A Collaborative Approach to a Complex Problem
Recognising that enforcement alone has proven ineffective, the council is adopting a more nuanced strategy. A key initiative is the creation of an 'ongoing Illegal Camping and Peak Season Community Working Group'.
This group, which has an approved budget of $30,000 for quick-win actions ahead of the 2025-26 summer, aims to foster a genuine partnership between residents and the council. The council spokesperson described it as a "collaborative way of problem-solving."
Ms Jean-Rice emphasised the complexity of the issue, noting that not all campers are the same, and some are people experiencing homelessness. This requires solutions that go beyond simple fines.
A Four-Pronged Strategy for the Future
The council's comprehensive plan focuses on four key areas:
- Infrastructure improvements
- Targeted compliance and enforcement
- Education and awareness campaigns
- Regional collaboration with other authorities
Specific actions include exploring the installation of gates at the frequently targeted Barrett Street Weir, updating ranger patrol routes, improving signage, and working closely with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.
These initiatives are planned across short, medium, and long-term timelines, with a full evaluation and refined roadmap expected to be presented to the council early next year. The council aims to deliver longer-term solutions through to 2027-28.
This crackdown in Augusta-Margaret River reflects a broader, coast-to-coast problem in Australia, where popular tourist destinations and coastal regions are increasingly strained by the environmental damage and social tensions caused by illegal camping.
