Government
Media
Statement

December 8, 2011

Bryan Green
Deputy Premier
Minister for Local Government

Scott Bacon
Minister for Tourism

Government Supports Low-Cost Camping Options

The Deputy Premier Bryan Green said today the Government wants low-cost camping options maintained for recreational vehicles and caravaners touring around Tasmania.

Mr Green said a review of council-managed camping services would not mean the end of low cost services and force people into caravan parks.

“There seems to be a misunderstanding that there will be no low cost options following the review,” Mr Green said.

Mr Green said the review was undertaken following recommendations by Tasmania’s Economic Regulator and at the request of local councils.

“The Government is working with local councils to achieve the lowest possible prices

“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.

Mr 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.

“Many of the council services are basic which means the cost of these services will be lower. 

“I am committed to helping local councils strike the right balance between attracting visitors and supporting local investment in private tourist facilities,” Mr Green said.

The Minister for Tourism Scott Bacon reiterated that recreational vehicles users and caravaners were important to Tasmania’s tourist industry.

‘I don’t want to see people in Tasmania, across Australia and from overseas missing out on experiencing the many different travelling experiences our State has to offer because of misinformation about the range of options still available.

“Tasmanian is very competitively priced in comparison to the mainland and the Government is committed to ensuring we retain our competitive advantage,” Mr Bacon said. 

The public consultation phase of the review has been completed and the Government will now consider its recommendations.

Contact: Matthew Sullivan 0407 816 462
http://www.tas.gov.au