The Victorian government has officially scrapped its free camping initiative, citing ongoing problems that have plagued the program since its launch. The decision comes as part of the state’s recent budget announcement, which reveals a shift back to a more traditional pricing structure at Parks Victoria’s 131 paid campgrounds.
Launched in October 2024, the free camping scheme aimed to make outdoor experiences more accessible. However, it soon faced significant challenges, including widespread rubbish dumping and a surge of no-shows at fully booked campsites. These issues not only strained local communities but also compromised the integrity of the camping sites.
In the budget speech, the government announced plans to revert to a half-price booking model from July 2024 to June 2027. The move is seen as a compromise designed to balance affordability with the practical needs of the parks and surrounding communities.
Critics, including Caravan and Residential Parks Victoria chief executive Scott Parker, described the free camping initiative as “poorly considered” and argued it disadvantaged private caravan park owners. Meanwhile, Victorian National Parks Association executive director Matt Ruchel acknowledged the problems caused by the scheme but suggested that a 50 percent reduction in booking fees could serve as a reasonable middle ground.
The decision to abandon free camping reflects ongoing efforts to manage the delicate balance between accessibility, community impact, and park maintenance.
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