There's nothing like a day at the beach, particularly if you're from a land-locked place that's negative 40 for a good chunk of the year. Getting away to somewhere sunny for a week or is often the only thing that gets you through those long winter months. Australia is definitely a popular destination for anyone looking to leave their winter blues behind. But it's also a nation full of people who love to hit the beach on the weekends. Though there is still a question of etiquette.
Portable cabanas are a common site on beaches around the world. They're an excellent way to enjoy a beautiful day while keeping the direct rays of the sun off you. Really, they are portable shade that doesn't blow away as easily as a beach umbrella. The problem is the sheer numbers of them combined with what is supposed to be impermanent becoming permanent.
Some beach goers are heading out early in the morning to use their portable cabanas to stake out their spot, leaving, and then returning several hours later with the rest of the family. Some people are even leaving them up overnight for multiple days at a time. If it was one or two people, it wouldn't be so bad. But an increasing number of both tourists and locals are doing this. The practice is rubbing Australian officials at all levels the wrong way, prompting calls for limitations and regulations.
Officials are concerned that the massive number of portable cabanas is a hazard as it restricts the movements of emergency services. Additionally, Australian beach access is supposed to be for everyone. Leaving cabanas on the beach to hold a space goes against that policy. While there is nothing official at this point, various members of the government have indicated their unhappiness. That includes Australia's Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, who shares those concerns.