Exploring the Right to Roam: Could Australia Benefit from Embracing Shared Use, Community and the Commons?

In a world where people often feel isolated and property boundaries divide us,  we need to look into refreshing concepts that champions freedom, shared use, and the spirit of community.

One unique and admirable principle is known as the "right to roam." Rooted in a legal act, it enables the public to explore an extensive array of outdoor spaces, irrespective of ownership, embodying the very essence of a collective responsibility and the common good.

Shared Ownership

The heart of the right to roam is the belief in freedom, emphasizing that the great outdoors should be accessible to all. This is a bold statement about shared ownership of nature, a resource that transcends private claims. In Scotland, for example,  it's almost as if there is no such thing as 'private' land when it comes to outdoor exercise. Even when the land is privately owned, the right to roam ensures that these natural treasures remain open to the public. However, this doesn't mean that Scotland is a lawless land where you can do as you please.

The right to roam is governed by the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which outlines three fundamental principles:

• Respect the interests of others.
• Care for the environment.
• Take responsibility for your actions.

Respecting others encompasses leaving no trace, keeping noise levels to a minimum, avoiding large gatherings, and not camping in one spot for too long. These principles aim to protect the local wildlife, the environment, and the harmony of those who share these spaces. In essence, it's a code of common sense that underlines the need for courtesy and awareness.

Welcoming Nature

In many ways, the right to roam is a reflection of the Scottish people's friendly, warm, and welcoming nature. It's a celebration of the idea that when we share, we all benefit. Even most Scottish landowners support this concept.

In other countries, encroaching on a farmer's land might lead to confrontations or even violence.

But in Scotland, it's different. Landowners are more likely to greet you, ask about your well-being, and even offer you a cup of tea. It's a testament to the power of community over the boundaries of property rights.

A Global Perspective

Scotland is not the only country with a right to roam system. Norway, Finland, Estonia, and Sweden have similar principles in place, making them equally inviting for explorers seeking a land where shared use is valued. These countries embrace the idea that nature belongs to everyone and should be experienced by all, regardless of who holds the deed.

The Potential for a Right to Roam in Australia

As we look at Scotland's right to roam, we can't help but wonder if this concept could find a place in other parts of the world. Australia, a vast and diverse country, offers an abundance of natural beauty. The question is, should Australia consider including a right to roam in its constitution? Would this be a path to foster the spirit of shared use, freedom, and community, as seen in Scotland and other countries in Europe?

Scotland's right to roam is more than just a legal concept; it's a testament to the beauty of shared use and the importance of community. It stands as a beacon of freedom, respect, and environmental stewardship. As more nations consider the value of shared access to the great outdoors, Scotland's approach serves as an inspiring example of how we can all enjoy the splendors of the natural world while preserving the sense of community and shared responsibility.

The question remains:

Should Australia, and perhaps other nations, explore the possibility of implementing the right to roam, allowing everyone to revel in the beauty of nature while respecting the principles of community, freedom, and shared use?