The Australian coastline is a source of national pride, with its pristine beaches drawing locals and tourists alike to bask in the sun, surf the waves, and relax on the sand. However, a recent development in South Australia has left many beachgoers feeling more than a little hot under the collar, and it's not just the summer sun that's to blame.


Visitors to some of the most popular beaches to the south of Adelaide, including Aldinga, Moana, Sellicks, and Silver Sands, have been left fuming over a new fee that's been imposed for the privilege of driving their cars onto the sand. The fee, which has been set at $12 per vehicle, has sparked outrage among those who are used to enjoying these beaches for free or at a lower cost.

The controversy was brought to light when a disgruntled visitor shared a video online showing a sign at the beach entrance that informed drivers of the fee. The sign, which also asked patrons to be 'patient and kind' to the volunteers managing the access ramp, was met with disbelief and anger.


'Have a look at this guys. It used to be $10, but it’s gone up to $12 for a car to come down here onto the beach,' the visitor lamented in the video. 'A joke, the cost of living today and people are taking away people’s advantage of coming down here and enjoying it.'

The sentiment was echoed across social media, with many calling the fee a 'scam' and questioning the legality of charging for access to a natural resource like the beach. Some were particularly incensed by the fact that volunteers were collecting the fee on behalf of the council, with one-third of the charge reportedly going to support community groups.

In response to the backlash, the City of Onkaparinga council explained that the fee increase from $10 to $12 was necessary due to the rising costs of maintaining the foreshore environment and managing the safe use of areas where vehicles are permitted. They revealed that during the financial year of 2023/24, $375,000 was collected from beach day passes, with $125,000 going to community groups and the remaining $250,000 allocated for the council's management and maintenance of the foreshore.


Despite the council's justification, many beachgoers remain unconvinced, especially in light of the steep fines for those caught without a permit or pass, which have jumped from $170 to $312. While residents of the City of Onkaparinga are entitled to one free seasonal beach pass per household, this does little to assuage the concerns of visitors and non-residents who feel they are being unfairly targeted.

The issue has sparked a broader debate about the commercialisation of natural spaces and the right of the public to access them without being burdened by additional costs. It raises important questions about the balance between preserving our natural environments and ensuring they remain accessible to all, regardless of financial status.

As we head into the beach season, it's clear that this issue is far from resolved. Beachgoers are encouraged to stay informed about the fees and regulations at their local beaches and to voice their opinions to their local councils. After all, Australia's beaches are a treasure to be enjoyed by everyone, and it's crucial that they remain that way.


So, before you pack your sunscreen and head to the coast, make sure you're aware of any access fees or restrictions. If you find yourself facing a fee that seems unfair, don't hesitate to reach out to your local representatives or community groups to express your concerns. It's only through active engagement and discussion that we can ensure the fair use and enjoyment of our beloved beaches for generations to come.