Aussie campground's $3 rule highlights frustrating problem for travelling families: 'What a joke'
A family visiting a popular camping site in Western Australia has lashed out over the cost. But some agree it's completely fair.
With many Aussies still in the thick of summer holidays, outdoor enthusiasts are no doubt making the most of their time spent outside. And for some, that likely means pitching a tent or parking a caravan at one of the country's idyllic campgrounds.
But a visit to a coastal campground in Western Australia turned sour for one unhappy camper who took aim at the "extra kid tax" often felt by families who have more than a couple of children after noticing the fees at the popular Cosy Corner in Albany, with the "unreasonable" cost of camping being brought into question.
There are six nature-based campgrounds located within City of Albany coastal Reserves, council confirmed to Yahoo News. Three of these are free while the others — Cosy Corner, East, Torbay Inlet and Cape Riche — cost $15 or $20 per night stay.
But while paying for his site, the father noticed the fine print stating the cost is for two adults and two children only. Families will have to pay an extra $3 per child per night
"Additional children under 16, $3. Additional adult $7.50," the pay station reads.
"As if I'm paying extra for children, what a joke our country is becoming," the man blasted on social media.
"It's already bad enough paying for the privilege of sleeping in your own tent, caravan, camper, etc. People that want to bush or coastal camp away from built-up areas are just being taken advantage of".
✅ Aussie dad's caravan travel solution to common camping problem
⛺️ Free camping confirmed for millions in major cost-of-living move
🏝️'End of the road' free camping 'paradise' loved by Aussies
Council defends camping cost for extra children
Manager City Reserves Jacqui Freeman explained to Yahoo News that the extra cost per child "contributes towards the facilities used by campers".
"A standard fee of $20 per night for a family of two adults and two children is designed to contribute towards the costs of maintaining and renewing campground amenities, ensuring they remain in good condition for all visitors," she said.
"For families with more than two children, additional fees apply to align usage with the facility's maintenance and renewal requirements."
Aussies divided of extra cost at kids at campsite
Responding to the man's complaint, many agreed an extra $3 is fair. "Camping is cheap in WA and facilities are well maintained," one said.
A second noted campers often pay "more than $100 for a patch of dirt" in popular campgrounds across the country.
"This is a fantastic price compared to many! It’s pretty simple. If you don’t want to pay it don’t pay it and go somewhere else," another hit out.
Some however agreed the extra cost is "a joke", suggesting camping for families is becoming more expensive.
"We are a family of 6 [two adults and four children] travelling this beautiful country and we are paying through the nose for extra kids," one shared.
"I completely understand where you are coming from, yes it’s only $3, it’s more the principal of the constant barrage of ‘extra kid tax’," they continued. "I feel like everywhere we go everyone is trying to get their extra pound of flesh, it’s so wearing."
Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.
You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
