South Australia Summer Plan: Free Boat Ramps, Dining Vouchers, and Safety Patrols to Boost Coastal Tourism and Local Businesses

Published on December 1, 2025

South Australia is set to make this summer memorable with a series of exciting new initiatives aimed at boosting tourism, supporting the boating community, and ensuring beachgoers enjoy a safe and relaxed season. The Malinauskas Labor Government’s $102.5 million Summer Plan package, which launched today, includes free boat ramp access, increased surf life-saving patrols, and a range of tourism and dining vouchers to encourage exploration of the state’s beautiful coastline.

Free Boat Ramp Access and Reduced Registration Fees for Boaties

Starting from today (December 1), recreational boat owners across South Australia will enjoy free access to boat ramps for the next 12 months. This initiative, part of the State Government’s ongoing efforts to support recreational fishing and tourism, ensures that boaters can access facilities without worrying about launch fees, which typically cost around $10 per launch depending on the council district.

The free ramp access is complemented by a 50% discount on recreational boat and light boat trailer registrations for 12 months. This reduction, benefitting up to 55,000 boat owners across the state, will provide substantial savings. For example, the current annual registration fee for a light boat trailer is $95, with the 50% discount reducing the cost by $47 annually. This initiative is part of the comprehensive Algal Bloom Summer Plan, jointly funded with the Federal Government, which aims to support communities and businesses affected by the ongoing algal bloom crisis.

By removing these financial barriers, the government hopes to encourage more people to get out on the water, which in turn will benefit the broader tourism and coastal industries. These savings are expected to not only support the local boating community but also boost business activity in coastal regions as more boaters venture out to explore South Australia’s stunning coastlines.

Increased Surf Life-Saving Patrols for a Safer Summer

As South Australians flock to the beaches this summer, an important part of the government’s Summer Plan includes an increase in Surf Life Saving South Australia (SLSSA) patrols. Beginning today, patrols will be conducted seven days a week at eight popular beaches across the state, up from the previous weekend and public holiday schedule. The beaches that will benefit from this increase in patrols are Semaphore, Henley Beach, Glenelg, Brighton, Port Noarlunga, Moana, Aldinga, and Goolwa.

With patrols now operating every day until April 6, 2026, SLSSA teams will ensure that the safest swimming conditions are marked with red and yellow flags, which will be placed where the water is safest for swimmers. Patrols will also be mobile, allowing them to move between beaches depending on conditions. This increased presence will give beachgoers the confidence to enjoy their time at the coast, knowing that their safety is being monitored.

Tourism and Dining Vouchers to Boost Local Businesses

The Summer Plan also features an exciting opportunity for South Australians to enjoy discounts and experiences along the coast. Up to 60,000 South Australians will receive a 50% cashback (up to $50) at participating coastal dining locations and seafood retailers. This Dining Cashback initiative is part of the South Australian Tourism Commission’s ongoing program, which aims to boost trade at local hospitality businesses and promote the region’s seafood industry.

The cashback offer is designed to encourage residents to support local dining establishments, creating a win-win situation for both the public and the businesses involved. This initiative runs alongside Round 2 of the Coast is Calling Travel Voucher program, which offers South Australians the chance to enter a ballot for a variety of travel vouchers. Vouchers include $100 experience vouchers and accommodation vouchers worth $100, $200, or $500. This second round will run through the summer and end at the conclusion of the Easter school holidays, driving visitation and spending to coastal regions affected by the algal bloom.

Additional Measures to Ensure a Safe and Enjoyable Summer

Along with these exciting initiatives, South Australians will also benefit from expanded algal bloom beach reports. The free Beachsafe app and its companion website, Beachsafe.org.au, will now include four updates a day instead of just one morning report. These reports will cover 23 popular beaches along the metropolitan and southern coasts, offering beachgoers real-time information on conditions, such as abnormal foam, coloured water, and when beaches were last cleaned. With this updated information, locals and visitors will be better equipped to plan their beach visits and ensure they enjoy the safest possible experience.

The government has also committed to daily clean-ups along metro and key regional beaches in partnership with local councils and other organizations. These efforts are designed to ensure that beaches remain welcoming and clean for everyone looking to enjoy the water this summer.

Supporting the Boating Community and Coastal Businesses

Lucy Hood, a spokesperson for the government, highlighted the importance of these initiatives in supporting South Australia’s boating community and coastal businesses. By reducing costs for recreational boat owners and providing free access to ramps for a year, the government is helping to bring boaters back onto the water, which will generate significant economic benefits for coastal regions. The reduced registration fees for boats and trailers are especially critical as the state continues to recover from the algal bloom crisis, which has temporarily affected fishing activities and other marine life.

Jason Deckers, Vice Chair of the Boating Industry Association SA Council, acknowledged the government’s efforts to assist the boating community. He noted that boating is a vital part of life for many South Australians, and the industry appreciates the financial relief provided through the reduced registration fees and free ramp access. These initiatives are expected to have a lasting positive impact on the boating industry by encouraging people to continue boating and fishing, activities that are deeply embedded in the state’s culture.

Conclusion

With the launch of these initiatives today, South Australians are encouraged to take full advantage of the opportunities to explore their coastline, support local businesses, and enjoy a safer, more accessible summer. From discounted boat registrations to increased patrols and tourism vouchers, the government is working hard to ensure that this summer is one to remember. Whether you’re boating, dining, or simply soaking up the sun at the beach, South Australia’s coast is ready to be enjoyed by all.