‘Have your say!’: Yarra River Berthing policy open for public comment
2 July, 2012
The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) wants to hear from Victorians about a new approach to allocating boat berthing licences along the Yarra River.
DSE Policy Director Jennifer Pequignot said: “The aim of the review is to make sure the way we allocate Yarra River berthing licences is fair, transparent and aligned to government policy.”
“We want to improve the way we manage the allocation of licences with the aim of cutting cut red tape for operators and ensuring we have a process which works for all parties,” Ms Pequignot said.
“Licensing arrangements need to enable suitable use and enjoyment of this iconic Melbourne waterway.”
“The review has focused on the berths at Southbank and Federation Wharf (previously known as Princess Wharf), and may have implications for other locations in the future.”
“Some of the proposed changes include moving towards an auction-based allocation system, making licences transferable and giving operators more flexibility in determining the berth sizes they want. A change of licence term from five to 10 years is also proposed.”
“Interested people are encouraged to read the draft policy and provide their feedback. This will help ensure this new and innovative approach effectively balances the needs of current and potential operators, the community and the environment. This is also a chance for people to have their say on aspects of how the commercial trading berths are managed and used.”
Parks Victoria is currently responsible for managing the allocation of berthing licences on the Yarra River issued under section 135A(1) of the Water Industry Act 1994 (Act).
The review is being conducted in consultation with stakeholders including current commercial operators, City of Melbourne, Parks Victoria and state government.
The draft Yarra River Berthing Licences Policy Framework is available at: www.dse.vic.gov.au/yarraberths or contact the DSE Customer Service Centre on 136 186.
To comment on the draft policy, please email Yarra.Berths@dse.vic.gov.au by 22 July 2012.