The Andrews Labor Government is offering members of the boating community the chance to play an integral part in the future of recreational boating, with Expressions of Interest now open for the Better Boating Fund roundtable.
Members of the Ministerial roundtable will have the opportunity to co-design the Victorian Recreational Boating Strategy, which will determine what the state's boating priorities should be.
The landmark Better Boating Fund will ensure every cent of the approximately $31 million of boat licensing and registration fees collected each year goes straight back into the industry.
The dedicated Fund acquits another Labor Government 2018 election commitment and guarantees that boat ramps are maintained properly, education programs are funded, and more promotion is done to increase participation.
Each year the details of the amount collected from licencing and registration fees, how much was spent and which projects were funded will be reported to Parliament.
A passionate and experienced panel of boaters and industry leaders are sought for the roundtable to help decide which areas of recreational boating are focused on.
The broader boating community will also be asked for input as the boating strategy is formed.
The Government has already abolished all boat ramp parking and launching fees, saving families up to $315 a year on annual parking permits.
A major $40 million investment is also going towards upgrading six priority boat ramps across the state. Work is underway at the Hastings boat ramp and Cowes Jetty, and planning for the upgrades of Mordialloc, Queenscliff, Point Richards and Rhyll boating facilities is progressing.
Recreational boating supports more than 20,000 jobs and is worth almost $8 billion a year to the Victorian economy, with the number of boating registrations increasing by 2.5 per cent on average each year over the past eight years.
To register your Expression of Interest visit getinvolved.transport.vic.gov.au/rec-boating-strategy.
As stated by Minister for Fishing and Boating Melissa Horne
"This roundtable provides a fantastic opportunity for passionate members of the boating community to get involved in shaping the future of recreational boating in Victoria."
"We want advice from boaters and industry leaders on how we can improve boating for people who love getting out on the water."
"These discussions will help decide the road map for future investment - ensuring Victorians will have the best infrastructure of anywhere in the country."
