From News.Com.Au:

A GOLD Coast Tupperware mum has been slugged more than $10,000 by the council to operate from her Robina home.

In an Australian first, Debbie Hert has been forced to lodge a development application with the Gold Coast City Council and pay infrastructure charges, The Gold Coast Bulletin reports.

Tupperware executives have expressed private concern that the council’s decision could open the floodgates for more revenue-raising tactics across the country.

With the home-based retail industry booming since the onset of the global financial crisis, councillors have created a new precedent for other operators.

At this week’s city planning committee, councillors reported increased activity in suburban streets, including traffic movements and large gatherings.

The increased activity has been triggered by a spike in home-based businesses, including learn-to-swim pools and Tupperware parties.