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Commercial Recreational Activities & Tour Operator Licences

Published on 2 July 2025

 


Commercial Recreational Activities & Tour Operator Licences

Barwon Coast supports safe, sustainable, and high-quality nature-based tourism that helps people connect with the coastal environment while contributing to the local economy.

What Is a Commercial Recreational Activity?

A commercial recreational activity is any regular or repeated activity conducted on public land for commercial gain. This can include:

  • Surfing or stand-up paddle boarding
  • Kayaking or canoeing
  • Walking tours or nature experiences
  • Fitness and wellness classes (e.g. yoga, personal training, stretching, running, swimming)

If your activity is a one-off, you’ll likely only need an Event Permit — not a licence.

Do You Need a Licence?

If you operate on a regular basis for commercial gain, you must hold a Tour Operator Licence to use Crown land managed by Barwon Coast. This is a legal requirement under the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978, and other public land management legislation.

How to Apply for a Tour Operator Licence

Licences are issued by Barwon Coast on an Expression of Interest (EOI) basis. Licence numbers are limited to ensure public access is preserved and impacts on the coast are minimised.

We are currently inviting EOIs for the following activity types:

Water-Based Activities

Including surfing, sea-kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and similar human-powered activities. Approved locations include:

  • Ocean Grove
  • Barwon River
  • 13th Beach
  • Bancoora Beach, Breamlea

Land-Based Activities

Including yoga, meditation, fitness classes and personal training.

Approved areas include:

  • Ocean Grove foreshore
  • Barwon Heads river and ocean reserves

Licences will commence 1 April 2025.

Apply Now

EOI applications are open now and will close 5pm, 19 January 2025.
All applications must be submitted via the TenderLink portal.

Apply Here