The City of Fremantle has introduced a new seasonal and temporary trading policy designed to encourage small businesses, attract more visitors and make public spaces more vibrant throughout the year. Councillors unanimously approved the updated policy at a recent council meeting, combining the city's seasonal trading and mobile food vendor programs into a single, streamlined framework. The changes are intended to make it easier for entrepreneurs to trial business ideas while enhancing the experience of residents and tourists.

Under the new policy, traders will be able to apply for permits to operate at a range of approved locations across Fremantle, including popular destinations such as Bathers Beach, South Beach Dog Beach, Port Beach, Esplanade Park, Booyeembara Park, Samson Park and Gilbert Fraser Reserve. In addition, businesses can propose their own trading locations, which may be approved by the city's Chief Executive Officer for trial periods of up to 12 months.

The revised framework is intended to support start-up businesses and creative vendors by providing opportunities to test products and services before investing in permanent premises. Councillors noted that seasonal trading can also help activate vacant areas within the city and contribute to a livelier streetscape. However, they stressed that the policy also protects established brick-and-mortar businesses by ensuring temporary traders complement, rather than unfairly compete with, existing operators.

The city received 102 public submissions during consultation on the proposal. Community feedback was strongly supportive, with 75 per cent of respondents backing the new policy and 81 per cent agreeing that seasonal and temporary trading improves public spaces. Nearly 59 per cent also rated the previous seasonal trading program as effective, encouraging the council to expand and modernise the initiative.

To improve fairness and reduce overcrowding, the city will introduce three daily trading periods—morning, lunchtime and evening. Businesses may apply for one or multiple time slots depending on availability, while joint applications will also be considered where appropriate. Councillors believe the flexible scheduling system will accommodate a wider variety of businesses and improve the overall visitor experience.

The policy also removes saunas from the seasonal trading program because of their significant energy requirements and the need for longer-term operating certainty. Instead, council officers indicated there may be opportunities to establish a permanent sauna facility at South Beach in the future. Seasonal trader permits will cost A$1,500, while mobile food vendors will pay up to A$400 for individual time slots or up to A$700 for an annual permit. Applicants must ensure their businesses are accessible, environmentally sustainable, visually appealing and able to be removed within 12 hours if required.

City leaders believe the updated policy will stimulate economic activity, encourage innovation and provide more attractions for both residents and visitors. By creating accessible opportunities for emerging businesses while maintaining a balance with permanent retailers, Fremantle hopes to strengthen its reputation as one of Western Australia's most vibrant coastal destinations and a welcoming place for entrepreneurship.