A debate over the use of beach cabins at a popular tourist destination has prompted the Prime Minister to speak out
Concerns about beachgoers booking spots using portable cabins are causing a stir in Australia.
In a morning appearance on a television show, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told viewers that the practice was contradictory Australian valuesReuters reported.
“One of the great things about Australia, unlike some parts of the world, (where) you go and have to pay to go to the beach, everybody owns the beach here,” Albanese said.
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He added: “It’s a place where all Australians are equal. And it’s actually a violation of that principle, to think you can book a little place all your own.”
Australians are debating portable beach cabins taking up space on shores. (iStock)
Some Australians and travelers took to social media to share their thoughts on this smart move.
“Those cabins take up so much space that sunbathing on the left just a concrete path,” user X posted.
One argued, “People are the problem, not cabanas.”
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Another joked, “Beach blanket Bingo.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the cabana debate on the morning show. (iStock)
“I see the law [being] made soon,” said a user on X.
One joked: “Because there are no bigger problems in Australia than beach behaviour.”
“Everybody owns a beach…that’s what we believed growing up,” said one woman on Xu.
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A user posted: “No problem with Cabanas… they are brilliant for sun protection and shelter.”
Social media users have joined the debate about beach cabins. (iStock)
“People take up the size of apartment blocks on some beaches by setting up 4 cabins in a square with a gathering place in the center,” said one.
Beaches in Australia are public and are considered “Crown Land” — allowing Australians to visit any beach area they want.
The New South Wales (NSW) Government states on its website: “Crown land is land held by the NSW Government on behalf of the public, for the benefit of the community.”
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Some users on X have opened a debate about beach ownership.
“When will someone in this country come to their senses and allow private individuals to build beach clubs on small parts of the beach,” said one X user.
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Adding: “Almost every other beach in world at least there is someone who rents beach chairs, but nothing in Australia.”
Almost eight million people visited Australia in 2023. (iStock)
“No thanks.. we don’t want this… beaches for all Australians, not just those rich enough to pay,” a user responded to the suggestion.
According to the Australian Tourism Survey, people take approximately 31 million day trips to the beach in Australia.
Summer in the country falls between December and February.
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Almost eight million people from all over the world globe visited in 2023, a 36% increase from the previous year, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
“Visitors come to Australia every year attracted by the beautiful beaches, unique flora and fauna, friendly people and relaxed atmosphere,” wrote one of Australia’s consulate generals on its website.
Reuters contributed to this report.
