Major crackdown coming to Aussie travel hotspot amid surge in illegal camping
Authorities in one of the country's most popular travel destinations are preparing for a more coordinated crackdown on illegal camping ahead of the 2025–26 summer season. It follows a noticeable spike in unauthorised stays and local complaints during peak tourism months.
The Shire of Augusta-Margaret River council, south of Perth, said the new approach will see rangers working more closely with Western Australia's Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA), to crack down on illegal camping, bad behaviour and littering.
"DBCA faces similar peak season challenges as the Shire — managing larger areas, multiple responsibilities and limited resources," Shire President Andrea Selvey said this week.
'"To protect our region's unique environment, we're working more closely with DBCA and plan to coordinate our response to peak season in future. We're also engaging with the community to identify measures to address illegal camping and increased day use at popular sites."
A Shire representative told Yahoo News on Wednesday further details would become available in the coming months.
The move comes amid growing community frustration over the environmental and social impacts of illegal camping, which has in the past included increased public defecation and heightened fire risks. Despite the problem, WA's Parks and Wildlife Service reportedly issued fines in fewer than 10 per cent of its interactions with campers last summer, prompting renewed scrutiny of enforcement practices.
Back in February, Yahoo News reported on locals' frustration over what they described as a lack of action in managing the annual surge. After the Shire posted to social media urging tolerance and environmental responsibility among residents, locals hit back and argued that the call for responsibility should be directed at visitors, not the rate-payers.
"It's like Groundhog Day at the Shire. Every year, without fail, the issue of illegal camping, waste disposal, sanitation and bushfire risk catches the Shire by 'surprise'. It's long past due that the Shire got proactive and managed this annual problem," one passionate man wrote.
"It's not the Shire residents causing the issues, it's the travellers. They're the ones who need this message,' a local woman said, adding that most visitors likely don't follow the Shire's social media pages.
The council said it is also working to involve the broader community, consulting locals to develop solutions around illegal camping and overcrowded day-use areas. A DBCA spokesperson said the department is committed to upholding the laws and preserving the area.
"The department continues to work closely with stakeholders like the shire to strike the right balance between welcoming visitors, keeping them safe, and protecting the region's environmental and cultural values," the spokesperson said.
Residents erupt at council as illegal tourist act soars
Illegal camping spirals as council takes 'compassionate' approach
Aussies warned over new $464 fine for 'common' camping act
"Ahead of the 2025–26 peak visitation season, DBCA will continue to identify and implement compliance priorities and strategies, including focusing on illegal camping hotspots, coordinating efforts with local government, and disrupting large-scale illegal gatherings in collaboration with WA Police."
The region, known for its natural beauty and growing popularity with tourists and van travellers, has faced increasing strain on public spaces, prompting mounting calls for clearer regulation, better signage, and more sustainable planning.
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