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Shire of Exmouth Takes Action to Combat Illegal Camping

Published on Wednesday, 2 April 2025 at 4:38:06 PM

SUMMARY

The Shire has launched a multi-faceted approach including educational materials, increased joint patrols with various agencies, and stricter parking regulations to deter illegal camping.
New and enhanced signage highlighting "No Camping" zones, while updated policies accommodate temporary stays for visitors.
Continued Council support for viable and regulated camping alternatives at the Exmouth Horsemans Club.

SHIRE OF EXMOUTH TAKES ACTION TO COMBAT ILLEGAL CAMPING

The Shire of Exmouth is intensifying its efforts to address illegal camping on the Northwest Cape, implementing a comprehensive strategy to safeguard the region's pristine environment and ensure a positive experience for all visitors and residents.

Building on initiatives begun last year, the Shire collaborates closely with various agencies to enforce regulations and promote responsible tourism.

Key initiatives implemented by the Shire include:

Information Flyer "Camping within the Shire of Exmouth": A comprehensive information flyer has been created in multiple languages and distributed to accommodation providers, Visitor Centres, and Roadhouses to educate travellers about legal camping options. A digital version will be shared widely on social media to reach a broader audience before they make the conscious decision to travel to Exmouth without accommodation.
Educational Media: Short educational videos and other media have been developed and will be circulated online, particularly in travel groups, to promote responsible camping practices on approved campgrounds.
Increased Joint Patrols: With the Shire's Ranger Team now fully staffed, joint patrols with the Department of Defence, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA), Australian Federal Police (AFP), and WA Police (WAPOL) will be intensified.
Parking Restrictions: A 4-hour maximum parking time has been implemented and will be enforced at known hotspots and reserves, including Exmouth Town Beach and the Exmouth ovals, to prevent overnight camping.
Signage Changes: Clear signage will be installed at town entry points, clearly indicating that Exmouth is a "NO FREE camping" area and camping is only permitted in authorised Caravan Parks and campgrounds.
Additional "No Camping" Signage: Further "No Camping" signage has been installed on Shire Reserves, as well as Defence and DBCA managed lands, including beaches in the Exmouth Gulf Area and Westside (Jurabi Coastal Park).
Support for Exmouth Horsemans Club Campground: The Shire continues to support the Exmouth Horsemans Club Campground, which successfully hosted over 7,300 guests during its 2024 trial season. This budget-friendly option caters to rooftop tents, vans, and swags.
Council Policy CS016 Temporary Accommodation: The Shire has implemented Council Policy CS016 Temporary Accommodation which will be rolled out in the coming weeks, aligning with the amended Caravan and Camping Act. This policy allows one caravan or camper trailer per property for up to 5 days without approval, increased from 3 days. Applications for longer stays (up to 12 months) can be made via the Shire website.

The Shire of Exmouth remains committed to protecting the region's natural assets and ensuring a positive experience for all. Residents and visitors are encouraged to report any instances of illegal camping and to adhere to all regulations.

COMMENTS ATTRIBUTED TO THE SHIRE – SHIRE PRESIDENT MATT NIIKKULA

"The protection of our natural environment is paramount, and we understand the concerns surrounding illegal camping and are committed to taking decisive action. We've heard our community loud and clear, and these initiatives directly address the issues they've raised. We have allocated necessary funds and are working diligently with our partners to ensure the effectiveness of these measures."

"The Shire of Exmouth is taking a firm stance to protect our unique environment and ensure a sustainable tourism experience. We understand the appeal of our natural landscapes, but illegal camping damages these precious areas and impacts the enjoyment of all."

"Our comprehensive strategy, which includes education, enforcement, and the support of managed camping options, reflects our commitment to finding a balanced solution. We urge all visitors to respect the regulations and choose authorised camping sites so we can preserve the beauty of Exmouth for generations to come."