❓ Mr. Templeman questions the rationale and impact of reducing stay limits at nature-based campsites from 3 months to 28 days. The Minister acknowledges the impact but defends the decision based on environmental protection, service limitations, and increased accessibility for tourists, noting no formal evaluation has been conducted.
AnsweredQoN 5866Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
I refer to amendments to the Caravan Parks and Camping Grounds Regulation 1997 , as advised in Circular No 32-2014 and specifically the decision to reduce the length of stays at nature based campsites from 3 months to 28 days, and ask: (a) what was the rationale behind this amendment; (b) is the Minister aware of the impact this is having in regional communities in respect of tourism, and long stay visitors; and (c) has the Minister or the Department evaluated the effects of this amendment 12 months on?
AnswerView source ↗
Answered
13 October 2016
Responded by
Minister for Local Government
Response time
28 days
(a) A comprehensive review into the existing provisions around nature-based parks was undertaken to ensure adequate safeguards were in place to protect the environment and occupiers of these parks. Relevant industry, consumer and government stakeholders were consulted and it was determined that 28 days was an appropriate length of stay, factoring in the remote locations of the parks and the level of services and facilities provided. Often these sites lack ablutions and long stays by the same occupier are not appropriate. It also allows sites in prime tourism locations to be accessible to a wider range of tourists.
(b) I am aware that the 28 night limit has impacted some long-stay visitors; however, there has also been positive feedback from visitors, who are now able to access prime tourism sites which were previously occupied for up to three months.
Nature based parks are not intended to be used for long term accommodation due to the limited services and facilities provided.
(c) No formal evaluation has occurred.
(b) I am aware that the 28 night limit has impacted some long-stay visitors; however, there has also been positive feedback from visitors, who are now able to access prime tourism sites which were previously occupied for up to three months.
Nature based parks are not intended to be used for long term accommodation due to the limited services and facilities provided.
(c) No formal evaluation has occurred.
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