Introduction
The Victorian Government continues to invest in safer, more accessible recreational boating through the 2024–25 Recreational Boating Dredging and Access Program. With a funding pool of $500,000, this initiative is designed to support channel dredging and sediment removal projects at public boat ramps across the state, enabling tide-independent boating and enhancing access to popular waterway facilities.
This year’s funding is made possible through the reinvestment of boating licence and vessel registration fees via the Better Boating Fund, reflecting the government’s commitment to reinvesting in boating infrastructure and services. The program aims to make it easier and more enjoyable for Victorians to get out on the water, regardless of tidal conditions.
The Importance of Dredging for Recreational Boating
Dredging is a vital maintenance activity for waterways, especially around boat ramps and navigation channels. Over time, sediment naturally accumulates in these areas, reducing water depth and making it difficult—or even dangerous—for boats to launch, retrieve, or navigate through.
Channel dredging ensures that boats can safely access public ramps and water routes by removing built-up silt, sand, and organic debris. Without regular dredging, facilities can become tide-dependent, limiting access during low tide and discouraging usage. For recreational boaters, this can mean fewer opportunities to fish, cruise, or explore the coast.
What the Grants Support
The 2024–25 dredging grants program will provide funding of up to $110,000 per project to eligible organisations responsible for managing public boating infrastructure. This includes local councils, committees of management, catchment management authorities, water corporations, and relevant state government agencies.
The grants can be used for a wide range of dredging-related activities, including:
- Channel dredging to restore navigable depths near boat ramps or access routes.
- Sediment removal from launching areas, jetties, and key boating corridors.
- Pre-dredging surveys to assess silt accumulation and plan for effective dredging.
- Strategic planning for long- and medium-term dredging needs to ensure sustainable waterway access.
These investments are crucial for ensuring safe and reliable boat ramp operations throughout Victoria, particularly in high-use coastal areas where tidal fluctuations have a significant impact on boating activity.
Building on Previous Success
The 2023–24 round of the program funded seven dredging projects across coastal Victoria. These projects spanned from Geelong and Port Phillip Bay to Mallacoota in the far east, enhancing access to popular recreational boating destinations and supporting local tourism and the economy.
Many of the previous recipients used the funding to remove compacted sediment from launching sites, clear navigation channels, and restore functionality to ramps that had been affected by years of natural buildup. In each case, the result was improved safety and convenience for thousands of boaters.
The current round of funding aims to expand on this success, encouraging a wider range of local authorities to apply for support and take proactive measures to maintain their boating infrastructure.
Boosting Tide-Independent Boating
One of the key goals of the program is to support tide-independent boating, where access to boat ramps and channels is available regardless of the tidal schedule. This is particularly important in areas where tides can significantly reduce water levels, making it challenging to launch or retrieve boats during low tide.
By funding targeted dredging projects, the Victorian Government is reducing these constraints and enabling a more consistent and flexible boating experience for recreational users. Whether it’s a weekend angler, a family outing, or a coastal tour operator, tide-independent access expands opportunities for safe and enjoyable time on the water.
Application Process and Oversight
Applications for the 2024–25 dredging grants are now open and will close at the close of business on Monday, 14 July 2025. Interested organisations can apply via the SmartyGrants portal, with detailed funding guidelines available online.
The program is administered by the Better Boating division of the Victorian Fisheries Authority, which oversees the state’s broader boating infrastructure strategy. This includes the state’s biggest-ever ramp upgrade program and the provision of free launching and parking at all public boat ramps across Victoria.
A Funding Advisory Panel, comprising government and industry representatives, will assess each application against established criteria. Their recommendations will be forwarded to the Minister for Outdoor Recreation for final approval.
Importantly, eligible organisations may submit multiple applications to support different locations or phases of dredging work, allowing for a comprehensive approach to improving boating access across their regions.
A Sustainable Investment in Boating Infrastructure
By committing significant resources to channel dredging and sediment management, the Victorian Government is demonstrating a long-term vision for recreational boating. These grants not only improve immediate access but also promote better maintenance practices and environmental planning for waterways.
Additionally, the program supports local economies by promoting tourism and job creation in regional areas where boating plays a significant role in community recreation and the local industry.
Conclusion
The Recreational Boating Dredging and Access Program is more than a maintenance initiative—it’s a proactive investment in safe, inclusive, and tide-independent boating access for all Victorians. Through strategic channel dredging, sediment removal, and infrastructure planning, the 2024–25 grants are set to enhance the boating experience across the state.
Organisations managing public boat ramps are encouraged to apply and contribute to a future where recreational boating in Victoria is accessible, reliable, and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of the tide.