Submission
Problems associated with using vehicles off-road in the West Coast region have been recognised since at least 1991 but few effective management actions have been implemented despite multiple opportunities over more than three decades. The Draft West Coast Off-Road Vehicle Strategy, released in July 2024, is the latest package of actions intended to address these issues but it falls short on a number of measures.
Hardening tracks, upgrading facilities associated with them and promoting them is likely to increase use and hence increase environmental impacts. While the draft strategy does not provide for new tracks, we maintain that closing and rehabilitating more tracks is the best means of reducing the environmental impacts of off-road vehicle use. It is disappointing that the draft strategy gives a low priority to monitoring and evaluation of any measures implemented.
We consider some aspects of the strategy should be extended to areas not covered by the draft strategy.
Postscript: 3 June 2025
After reviewing the 183 submissions received, the Tasmanian government released the West Coast Off-Road Vehicle Strategy on 20 May 2025. While the final Strategy does not provide for new tracks or reopening closed tracks, there is insufficient focus on the protection of natural and cultural values. Furthermore, while the Strategy highlights the significance of Aboriginal cultural heritage in the area, concerns remain about how it will be protected given that the Strategy appears to primarily benefit the off-road community. Our more detailed comments on the final Strategy can be read here.
