Victoria’s bold attempt to ease cost-of-living pressures through a free camping initiative is coming to an end. Beginning July 1, 2025, the state will reintroduce a half-price booking system across its 131 government-run campgrounds, following a wave of “ghost bookings”, environmental concerns, and pressure from the private sector.
From Free to Fee: The Rise and Fall of a Policy
Launched in October 2024, the free camping policy aimed to offer relief for families struggling with rising living costs by removing fees at state-run camping sites. But what was meant to foster accessibility soon became a source of frustration. Many campsites were left empty despite being booked, a phenomenon dubbed “ghost camping“, where users reserve spots but never show up.
Scott Parker, CEO of Caravan and Residential Parks Victoria, was among the most vocal critics. He described the scheme as “a poorly considered initiative” and argued that it hurt private operators who couldn’t compete with free government sites. Parker said his association had warned the government about ghost bookings and suggested that a voucher system supporting private parks could have been a better alternative..
Environmental Impact and Community Concerns
The unintended consequences of free camping extended beyond poor booking practices. Increased rubbish dumping, overuse of basic facilities, and disruption to local communities became common complaints.
Matt Ruchel, Executive Director of the Victorian National Parks Association, acknowledged the environmental strain but supported a revised approach. “The fact that people are paying a fee means that they’re more likely to turn up,” he told ABC News, suggesting that small fees help ensure commitment and reduce waste.
Looking Ahead: A Balanced Approach
With the introduction of a staggered, half-price system from July, the Victorian government aims to find a middle ground between affordability and sustainability. The goal is to continue supporting families seeking low-cost outdoor experiences while also maintaining campground integrity and supporting regional economies.
The end of the free camping experiment offers a lesson in public policy: without guardrails or accountability, even well-intentioned programs can backfire. As Victoria moves forward, a balanced, well-managed system is the key to preserving both public trust and the natural beauty of its outdoor spaces.
