The Boating Industry Association (BIA) is calling on the NSW State Government to ensure the consultation process for the trial Powered Vessel Exclusion Zones in Port Stephens is fair and equitable.
BIA spokesperson Neil Patchett said the State Government announced the trial of powered vessel exclusion zones on social media in November without consulting or providing any evidence of concerns to key stakeholders who are impacted.
“The boating sector is accustomed to the long-standing norm of consultation prior to implementation of regulatory measures which typically gives the outcome a good chance of success for all from the start,” Patchett said. “This current unusual process is troubling and runs the risk of setting a poor precedent which could be used in other areas with little regard for the boating public.”
The State Government has activated the zones and only now has consultation open with signs to direct people to Have Your Say. Concerningly, there seems an imbalance in signage with reports there are signs at only two boat ramps out of about 20 in servicing the area whilst there are numerous signs at beaches and swimming areas encouraging public comment.
The boating public should be provided with the same level awareness of the trial and opportunity to comment.
BIA says the consultation process is the main problem with the trial and the fact that if left unchecked it is likely to be used as a model for more bans on boating without appropriate evidence or consultation. It also comes on the back of Transport for NSW breaking with convention and increasing boating fees to record levels without prior consultation with those impacted.
When the zones are removed at the end of this trial they should not be reintroduced or applied elsewhere until Transport for NSW has provided the following:
• appropriate consultation with key stakeholders representing those impacted
• long-term, robust and relevant data and evidence of incidents and unacceptable behaviour by ‘powered vessels’ in the areas;
• evidence of what education, compliance and enforcement activity has taken place in the impacted areas over the past 10 years;
• evidence of what alternatives to Exclusion Zones have been considered and tried; and
• data on the social and economic impact of the Exclusion Zones.
BIA meanwhile will continue to step up its promotion of safe, responsible and enjoyable boating for the 5 million people who get out on the water in paddle, power and sail craft each year in Australia.
