CONCERNS have been raised that tiered pricing for camping in National Parks could leave the pursuit beyond the reach of struggling families.
A consultation paper was released last month by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, which sets out proposed changes to the camping fee system for national parks and reserves in NSW.
The paper states the changes would deliver “consistent and equitable camping fees for all New South Wales national parks” and support sustainable management of visitation into the future.
According to the NPWS, benefits include a simpler fee per campsite per night; removal of booking and extra-person fees; free camping in basic campgrounds and lower-cost camping options during off-peak periods; more generous refunds of up to 80 percent to encourage cancellations when plans change; improved management of persistent campground issues such as ghost bookings (i.e. no-shows); and more investment in campground services and facilities to enhance the visitor experience.
“Some modest fee increases would support ongoing maintenance and provision of onsite visitor services,” the consultation paper states.
The proposed camping fee system would include six tiers.
Tier 1 campgrounds would be free and have minimal facilities.
Tier 2–5 campgrounds would have fees aligned with the range of services provided, quality of facilities and visitor demand.
Tier 6 campgrounds would attract the highest fee, with facilities such as camp kitchens, shower blocks and hot water.
Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said increased fees could put camping out of reach for some families.
“Our National Parks on the Coffs Coast and beyond are extremely popular but under Labor’s plan, visitors will have less money to spend in our local towns, cafés, pubs, clubs, and businesses.
“Instead of restricting access to our National Parks, the Government should be supporting tourism by building more campgrounds and making them more accessible so people can enjoy the great outdoors.”
Member for Oxley Michael Kemp said camping has long been an affordable escape for locals wanting to experience the peace and natural beauty of our coastline and hinterland.
“For families from Kempsey, Nambucca, Macksville or South West Rocks, camping is how we spend time with friends and family without spending a fortune,” Mr Kemp said.
“Right now, households are cutting back on the essentials, and for many, camping is one of the last affordable ways to enjoy a family holiday.
“Hiking these fees is a direct hit on families who just want a simple weekend in the bush.”
During Question Time on 13 May, Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson questioned Tourism Minister Steve Kamper on the proposed fee changes.
“A seven-night camping trip at Thredbo Diggings used to cost a family $6 for the week, but the Government is increasing that cost by at least 2,300 percent, moving camping tourism out of reach for many families,” said Mr Anderson, who is the Shadow Minister for Tourism.
“How can the Government justify that extraordinary price hike in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis?”
In response, Mr Kamper said Mr Anderson had “extracted something from a discussion paper… and made it into a reality”.
“The truth is that is where we are on the matter at the moment. I have nothing more to say.”
Community members can have their say on the proposed changes until 25 May.
For full details, visit haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/camping.
