Have your say on our updated Bathing Box Policy

Published on 20 July 2026

Mornington Peninsula Shire is inviting our passionate community to review and provide feedback on our updated Bathing Box Policy.  

The draft Policy applies to bathing boxes and boatsheds located on Shire-owned and managed land. It provides guiding principles for the management of bathing boxes and boatsheds to protect the Mornington Peninsula’s iconic coastal character while ensuring beaches remain accessible and enjoyable for all beach goers.  

The draft Policy balances the heritage value and private use of these structures with the need to safeguard the natural environment, maintain foreshore amenity and support fair, transparent and sustainable management. It also outlines a consistent approach to licensing and maintenance to ensure these valued community assets are used and cared for responsibly now and into the future. 

The draft Policy proposes to formalise licence arrangements with all bathing box and boatshed owners within six months of its adoption. Licences will be issued for a term of 10 years. 

Deputy Mayor Paul Pingiaro explained that on the Mornington Peninsula, there are more than a thousand boatsheds, but this policy does not apply to all. “There are 824 bathing boxes and boatsheds on Shire-owned or managed land, and the draft Policy applies only to those bathing boxes and boatsheds,” Cr Pingiaro said.

“Bathing boxes and boatsheds help make the Peninsula’s coastline iconic; these colourful little sheds dotted along the foreshore contributes to the unique character of our area.  

“We have liaised with the Mornington Peninsula Bathing Box Association and DEECA during the development of this Policy, and their input has been valuable in shaping this document.”  

How to provide your thoughts:  

Community consultation is open until 25 August 2026. 

Online 

Go to mornpen.vic.gov.au/bathingboxpolicy

In-person information session  

Thursday 23 July, Mornington Library 4.30pm – 6.30pm