How much is the Facilities Levy?

The facilities levy currently ranges from $24 for personal watercraft, $31 for houseboats, and between $24 and $200 for powered vessels (length based) per annum, effective from 1 July 2008. 

What type of vessel attracts the Facilities Levy?

Power-driven recreational vessels.

Why are houseboat owners required to pay the facilities levy when houseboats do not use recreational boat launching facilities?

There are numerous facilities along the River Murray for the benefit of all houseboat users that have been provided with funding assistance from the Levy Fund. These include river distance markers, snag buoys, lock holding points and houseboat tie-up points.

The Bow Hill wharf has also been upgraded to provide short term berthing and ‘stop and shop’ benefits for passing river vessels.

Why are fees charged at some locations for the use of boat ramps?

Launching fees are charged at a number of public ramps. These fees are not levied by the Government, but are set at the discretion of the ramp operator and are commensurate with the standard of each ramp. The revenue raised is received and expended by the operator (eg local council) for day-to-day maintenance of the ramp and associated facilities.

Why do I have to pay both the facilities levy and a registration fee for my vessel?

All of the funds collected from the facilities levy are dedicated to the Recreational Boating Facilities Fund, aimed at establishing and improving recreational boating facilities in South Australia’s coastal and inland waters. These might include boat ramps, temporary mooring facilities or wharves, channel improvements or aids to navigation.

Vessel registration fees are used to fund the Government’s recreational boating safety program. There are more than 55 000 recreational vessels fitted with an engine currently registered in South Australia and more than 140 000 licensed vessel operators, so the promotion of recreational boating safety is a high priority.

Who do I contact for information or complaint concerning a particular boat ramp?

Local councils own all South Australian boat ramps, with the exception of the ramps at O’Sullivan Beach, Adelaide Shores, Outer Harbor, Anxious Bay (Department for Transport, Energy and Infrastructure) and North Haven (Cruising Yacht Club of South Australia). It is the responsibility of each owner to ensure the facilities under their care are maintained in a safe and functional manner.

Are pensioners exempt or eligible for discount?

There is no exemption or discount for pensioners.

Who can apply for funding?

Local councils and large community organisations that are able to accept on-going ownership, operation and maintenance of the facility. 

What if I want my local boat ramp to be upgraded?

You should approach your local council, which has the expertise to prepare a detailed application, for assistance from the Fund.

Can other funds or work in kind (volunteer labour) make up a 50% share of the total project cost?

Yes, Council's share of the project cost can be jointly met with other contributors, eg other Government departments, Federal Government and/or community group funding. Contributions of work in kind, donated material and the loan of equipment can also be included.

Are funds available for staged projects?

Yes, however a successful grant for one stage does not guarantee other stages will receive funding assistance. Each application is assessed on merit in accordance with the strategic guidelines.

Why do I have to pay the levy when there are no boat ramps in my area and I have to launch off the beach?

The Recreational Boating Facilities Fund contributes to recreational facilities that are available for public use for the benefit of all recreational boating users.