Media response - O'Sullivan Beach boat ramp permits

Published on 13 January 2024

Response to Channel 7 and The Advertiser.

• The journalists asked why some vehicles at the boat ramp had received fines, what provisions had been made for users with difficulties accessing a new mobile application for boat ramp permits, and why users were charged for boat ramp use more broadly.

Comments attributed to Renee Mitchell, Director Planning and Regulatory 

The City of Onkaparinga has introduced a new electronic payment system for purchasing boat ramp permits, but to date no fines have been issued for non-payment of fees.

Instead, we have issued caution notices (expiations with a $0 fine amount) to those without permits to help people get used to the new system. Fines have only been issued to vehicles parked illegally in the boat-launching area without a boat trailer attached, as per Australian Road Rules.

We have listened to the community’s feedback about the new payment app and this week we introduced a cash process for customers who prefer this option, with physical permits able to be purchased from council’s Noarlunga office during business hours.

This permit, which will be able to be displayed on your dashboard, are available for the day, or as a three, six, nine or 12-month pass. 

Pensioners are eligible for a concession on 3-12 month passes, which can be obtained at council offices.

We’re aware of some early frustrations with establishing mobile app accounts, which we’ve been continuously improving since the permits were reintroduced in mid-December. We thank everyone for their patience as we roll out the new system at the upgraded boat ramp.

Instructions on purchasing boat ramp permits, via the mobile application or by cash, are available at onkaparingacity.com/boatramp

The purpose of the boat ramp fee is to cover the day to day maintenance of the ramp and to maintain signage and notices for the control of launching and retrieval operations at the ramp. 

ENDS