UPDATE: The Shire of Augusta Margaret River has just announced a drastic increase in fines for illegal camping, raising penalties from $100 to $200 in an urgent effort to tackle the growing crisis. This decision comes after the council admitted previous enforcement measures have failed to address the persistent issue of illegal camping across the region.
The council’s special meeting last week revealed a new strategy aimed at combating illegal camping, which has become a significant concern for local residents and authorities alike. The Shire’s President, Julia Jean-Rice, emphasized the dire impacts of illegal camping, citing human waste, safety risks, and reduced access to beaches as critical issues affecting community well-being.
Recognizing that “traditional responses to illegal camping have relied heavily on enforcement,” Jean-Rice stated that fines alone are insufficient. The council is shifting towards a more collaborative approach, involving community members in finding solutions. This initiative includes the formation of an Illegal Camping and Peak Season Community Working Group following input from 13 community meetings.
The Shire has allocated $30,000 for immediate actions ahead of the busy 2025-26 summer season, signaling a commitment to address this complex issue. Jean-Rice noted that not all campers are the same, and some individuals may be experiencing homelessness rather than engaging in illegal activities by choice.
The council’s new actions focus on four key areas: infrastructure improvements, targeted compliance and enforcement, education and awareness campaigns, and regional collaboration with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA). Jean-Rice mentioned the potential installation of gates to manage access at frequently targeted areas, like Barrett Street Weir, pending community consultation.
As illegal camping continues to surge, particularly in coastal tourist regions, the Shire’s measures aim to strike a balance between community needs and visitor experiences. The council’s full evaluation of actions taken during the summer will inform budget decisions and future strategies in early 2026.
The situation has sparked heated debates among residents, with many feeling the strain of increased tourism and its associated issues. As the council intensifies its crackdown on illegal camping, it remains to be seen how these new measures will reshape the landscape of this ongoing crisis.
Residents are encouraged to share their experiences with illegal camping by contacting the newsroom via email at [email protected].
Stay tuned as we monitor the developments in this urgent local issue.
