Boatshed Owners Brace for Impact as Wyndham City Council Votes on Controversial Fee Increases and New Management Guidelines
In a move that could reshape the management of marine and coastal assets, Wyndham City Council is set to vote on proposed updates to its 2016 Boatshed Management Policy at their meeting tomorrow night, 23rd July. The proposed updates, outlined in the Draft Wyndham Boatshed Management Policy 2024, aim to address inconsistencies with recent legislative changes and improve management effectiveness.
The need for updates stems from the adoption of the Marine and Coastal Act 2018 and amendments to the Local Government Act 2020. The council’s review seeks to enhance regulatory compliance and provide clearer guidelines to licensees managing bathing boxes and boatsheds along the Werribee South foreshore reserve.
A notable aspect of the draft policy is the significant increase in annual licence fees and transfer charges, aimed at bringing Wyndham’s fees in line with those of other councils and covering operational costs. Starting April 2025, the annual licence fee for boatsheds will jump from $416 to $650, although the council have stated it will still be competitive compared to fees up to $1075 charged by other councils.
While these changes are deemed essential for financial and operational alignment, they could potentially lead to dissatisfaction among boatshed licensees, who might view the fee hike and the proposed random inspections as burdensome.
The council anticipates that the revised fees will generate an additional $33,462 annually from licence fees alone, not including the increased revenue from higher transfer fees. This additional income will support enhanced management of boatsheds, ensuring that licensees receive adequate support and oversight.
As the council prepares for the crucial vote tomorrow night 23rd July, the challenge will be to manage the concerns of the boatshed community effectively while communicating the benefits and necessities of the updated policy. The decision could significantly impact the future management strategies of Wyndham’s coastal and marine assets, marking a crucial step in aligning local policies with broader environmental and legislative frameworks.
