The WA Government is cutting red tape to make it easier for people to camp on private land.
The changes, which come into effect at the start of next month, extend local government approval powers under WA’s Caravan Parks and Camping Regulations.
The reforms streamline the application process for temporary accommodation approvals on private property, and offer more flexibility for local governments.
Previously, local governments could only provide approvals maximum of three months, or up to 12 months if the proposed arrangement was in a caravan and the person had a building or demolition permit.
The changes are good news for travellers in WA. PIC: WA Government
Standard camping approvals for longer than three months required a separate application to the Minister for Local Government.
The WA Government says the benefits of the simplified process include:
All applicants will still need to satisfy the existing conditions for these approvals, including meeting health and safety requirements set out in the Caravan Parks and Camping Grounds Regulations 1997.
Fines for unauthorised camping will also increase from $100 to $200 to deter unlawful campers.
The Member of the Legislative Assemble for Warren-Blackwood in the WA’s south west, Jane Kelsbie, said the reforms were a ‘game changer’.
“Across Warren-Blackwood, there is a strong demand for seasonal worker housing, and we have already witnessed the positive impact of using tiny homes on wheels to meet this demand,” she said. “I’m proud to have played a part in facilitating these sensible changes, which aim to cut red tape, clarify guidelines, and offer better protection against unlawful camping.”
More information is available here: Temporary accommodation and camping outside of caravan parks.
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Not sure how this changes anything given councils are anti freecamps.
As an example I would gladly pay a fee to camp for 3 months up past James Price Point but no that’s impossible, does this legislation fix that but mean I have to do some paperwork first .
This is a good move that can be very helpful for folk who are suffering accommodation stress, such as family members who lose their digs in difficult circumstances during these hard times. About time!
We fought for the freedom of our own country – NOW we get some power hungry councils wanting us to not be able to use our country – to live or camp in ?? WTF in actual facts Councils have no durastiction of any sort __ Just read our constitution- It states only federal or State governments have any rights — TO change laws and change rules __ just check it out !!