The State Government has declared free boat ramp access across the state. This initiative is part of the $102.5 million Summer Plan package aimed at aiding recreational fishing and enhancing coastal enjoyment, with this latest addition kicking off on December 1st.
The Government has coordinated with local councils to make boat launching facilities available at no cost to recreational boat owners for the next 12 months. As part of the Algal Bloom Summer Plan, a partnership initiative with the Federal Government, recreational boat and light boat trailer registrations will see a 50 per cent discount for one year. This substantial relief measure will benefit up to 55,000 boat owners statewide.
These initiatives were designed to support boating communities and coastal enterprises during the ongoing recovery from the algal bloom. The offer of free ramp use, which usually costs around $10 per launch, combined with reduced registration fees, could save boat owners hundreds of dollars annually. The registration fee for light boat trailers, for example, will drop by 50 per cent from the standard $95, providing a saving of $47 each year.
Boat and trailer owners will find the discounted rates applied automatically to their renewal notices. Those needing to register unregistered boats or trailers must do so in the usual way, despite the cuts.
This announcement comes alongside improved safety measures at beaches. Surf Life Saving South Australia (SLSSA) patrols have ramped up to seven days a week at eight key beaches, including Semaphore, Henley Beach, and Glenelg. These intensified patrols ensure safer swimming spaces, with flags placed daily in areas deemed safest.
The Summer Plan package doesn’t stop at supporting boating and safety, it also extends into tourism and dining. Up to 60,000 South Australians could benefit from a 50 per cent cashback, up to $50, at specific coastal dining venues and seafood retailers as part of today’s second Dining Cashback draw. Another exciting offer includes the ‘The Coast is Calling’ travel vouchers, giving individuals a chance to win one of several vouchers for experiences and accommodations along the coast, enhancing travel and spending in regions impacted by the algal bloom.
For those keen on day-to-day beach updates, the Beachsafe app and website now offer four comprehensive reports daily, up from just one. This makes sure beachgoers are well informed about conditions such as water colour and cleanliness before visiting.
The online Beachsafe platform provides the latest photographs and reports for 23 popular beaches across the metro and southern coast, essential during the summer months.
State and federal governments are also continuing their collaboration on daily beach cleanups, partnering with local councils and organisations to maintain beautiful and safe beaches for public enjoyment.
Lucy Hood MP, Minister for Climate, Environment and Water shared, “These initiatives are supporting our boating community and coastal businesses, helping boaties get back on the water by reducing costs and providing free ramp access for a year.
“Halving registration fees for recreational boats and light boat trailers is an important measure during the algal bloom recovery, with temporary fishing restrictions in place to help protect and regenerate impacted species.”
Vice Chair of the Boating Industry Association SA Council, Jason Deckers, added, “Boating is a way of life for many people in South Australia, and fishing is a big part of that lifestyle.
“Industry acknowledges the SA Government’s recognition of the impact on boating by providing hefty discounts on boat and trailer registrations, making ramp access free for 12 months, and supporting industry efforts to encourage people to continue to go boating.”
Together, these initiatives represent a focused effort to support and revitalise coastal communities and marine recreational activities in South Australia, offering financial relief and enhanced safety, alongside boosting local tourism and dining sectors.
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