After consulting extensively with the community, the Andrews Labor Government is finalising new regulations governing recreational use of Crown land river frontages that will give Victorians more options to enjoy the great outdoors from 1 September this year.
Camping will only take place on suitable sites, with a rigorous assessment process applied to ensure sites will be safe for camping, with environmental and agricultural impacts considered as well as any impact on Aboriginal cultural heritage, an official press release said.
Up to 27 sites along the Goulburn, Broken, Ovens, Campaspe, Loddon and Murray Rivers are currently being assessed with hundreds to follow.
More than 1,100 submissions were received during consultation on the draft regulations.
The final regulations will reflect the expectations of the entire community, providing a fair balance between providing opportunities for recreation while ensuring the environment and Aboriginal cultural heritage are protected and the interests of adjoining landowners and licence holders are considered.
The public can already lawfully access licensed river frontages for recreation such as fishing, hiking and picnicking.
The regulations will be enforced by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Victorian Fisheries Authority and Parks Victoria to ensure the protection of the environment, Aboriginal cultural heritage and the interests of recreational users, licensees and adjoining landowners are considered.
A 24-hour hotline (13FISH) will be available for the public to report any illegal or antisocial behaviour.
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