The City of Fremantle is inviting community feedback on a renewed Seasonal and Temporary Trading Policy, aimed at supporting a more vibrant, flexible and activated urban environment.
The refreshed approach places a stronger focus on the role of traders, food vendors and short‑term activations in shaping Fremantle's street life and contributing to a dynamic, engaging and year‑round city experience.
A key proposed change arising from the review is the transition of sauna operators out of the Seasonal and Temporary Trading Policy, into a more suitable regulatory pathway.
Rather than being managed as short‑term or recurring temporary uses, sauna operations would be considered through formal commercial leasing arrangements that better reflect their maturity, operational characteristics and ongoing demand.
This shift is intended to improve regulatory clarity, reduce administrative burden and avoid the need for repeated policy amendments, while continuing to provide an appropriate pathway for sauna operations.
The broader review reflects Fremantle's strong track record as a "tested city" a place where new ideas can be trialled, refined and scaled. By creating clearer pathways for temporary trading and short‑term commercial uses, the City aims to unlock underutilised public spaces and encourage innovation across the city.
City of Fremantle Director City Business, Matthew Hammond, said the proposed changes demonstrate a flexible approach to city activation.
"Fremantle has always been a place where people come to experience something different," Mr Hammond said.
"These policy changes provide greater clarity for businesses and the community, while ensuring we can continue to support the seasonal trading of small and unique enterprises as a way of activating our public spaces."
Community consultation on the proposed policy changes is now open, with residents, businesses and stakeholders encouraged to have their say via the City's MySay website: mysay.fremantle.wa.gov.au, by reviewing the revised documents and FAQs, completing the online survey, making a written submission or requesting a meeting with a City officer.
Feedback will help shape a final approach that supports activation and enhances Fremantle's public spaces.
