RVs on breakfast TV. That’s how you launch a major national activation.

The Nine Network’s Today Show broadcast live from Green RV on the Sunshine Coast yesterday (2 September), putting this Saturday’s National Dealer Day in front of hundreds of thousands of Australians.

Jason Plant, CEO of Caravan Trade & Industries Association of Queensland, did a superb job highlighting the value of caravanning and camping, while pointing viewers toward Saturday’s nationally coordinated activities.

Hosted across the show’s weather crosses, the coverage showcased RVs for every type of traveller, comfort level and budget, with product from Avida Recreational Vehicles and Snowy River Caravans on display.

Today Show weather presenter Tim Davies got well and truly into the spirit – chatting with campers, checking out the RVs and even taking on a reverse-driving challenge. Hot tip: don’t stand too close if you see him pull into a caravan holiday park.

It’s all part of No Better Time, the largest market stimulus in industry history. The campaign is being backed by a major media and marketing push reaching millions of Australians, whether they’re driving, scrolling or watching their favourite program.

That reach comes from a coordinated push across three fronts:

• Radio – live-read endorsements across metro and regional stations.
• Television – the Today Show broadcast, plus a week of Today Show traffic sponsorship.
• Social – organic content across the Let’s Go Caravan Camping Facebook and Instagram pages (reaching over 270,000 people) and the 450,000-strong email database, backed by paid Meta and Google advertising.

National Dealer Day is the first major activation in the three-year campaign, coordinated by Caravan Trade & Industries Association of Queensland, Caravan & Camping Industry Association NSW, Caravan Industry Victoria and Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

It gives dealerships across the country a shared moment to engage consumers simultaneously, converting campaign-driven momentum into foot traffic on the day. There’s even three $5,000 cash prizes up for grabs. But the real incentive is what’s on the showroom floors – because nothing beats seeing, touching and trying before you buy.

CLICK HERE to learn more about No Better Time or find a participating dealer.

Topics: Feature, Marketing

It was a “proper stress test,” but that’s what Gawler Caravan Centre Managing Director Michael Phillips wanted.

The South Australian business is the first operator to be accredited under Caravan Industry Association of Australia’s new Service & Repairs Accreditation Program (SRAP).

For Michael, becoming accredited was never a tick-box exercise.

“That audit was thorough,” he explained. “It examined our policies and processes from top to bottom, evaluated our team’s skills and experience, and looked closely at the practical reality of how we handle day-to-day repair and service work.

“It highlighted a few areas we needed to tighten up, which was exactly what I wanted. There is nothing like a proper stress test on your business to reveal things you might have otherwise overlooked.”

What’s required

That willingness to be examined, and to act on what the audit revealed, is exactly what SRAP is designed to recognise and reward.

To achieve accreditation, businesses must demonstrate best practice across legal compliance, risk management, human resources, customer service and workshop equipment maintenance.

Accredited businesses also make an ongoing commitment to maintain good business practices, adhere to stringent regulatory standards, follow a code of conduct for service and repairs, maintain policies and procedures for professional and ethical conduct, and employ staff who are registered or licensed under state regulators.

Once accredited, businesses can display the SRAP Accreditation Key, the same symbol of trust that adorns the association’s established accreditation programs covering manufacturers, dealerships, industry suppliers, RV salespeople and caravan holiday parks.

Trust travellers can count on

For Michael, who has spent years advising and advocating for the service and repairS sector, this accreditation is a long time coming, and he believes its benefits will reach well beyond Gawler Caravan Centre.

“Repairers keep travellers’ wheels turning, yet that work often gets lost,” he said. “It is a critical part of the industry that directly impacts every caravan owner’s ongoing experience, so I’m thrilled to see the service and repairs sector have a nationally recognised accreditation that sits alongside Caravan Industry Association of Australia’s other industry-leading programs.

“Most importantly, this accreditation gives caravan owners complete peace of mind, connecting them to a recognised network of vetted repair professionals backed by a brand they already know and trust.”

Caravan Industry Association of Australia CEO Stuart Lamont echoed the sentiment, saying SRAP filled an important gap in the organisation’s accreditation suite.

“Every RV owner will need a service or repairs at some point, and the quality of that work directly affects their safety and their experience on the road,” Stuart explained.

“The Service & Repairs Accreditation Program gives consumers a clear, trusted pathway to identify operators that meet the industry benchmark for professionalism, compliance and customer care.

“This mirrors the remit of our other accreditation programs, giving consumers confidence in the industry as a whole by easily identifying businesses that carry our Accreditation Key logo throughout their RV journey.”

Raising the bar

Taking a long-term view, Michael hoped other service and repairs businesses would see the program’s immense value.

“Being the first business accredited in this program means a lot to me and our team,” Michael said. “It brings valuable exposure to our business and shines a spotlight on the service and repair segment across the country.

“It also gives us direct access to Caravan Industry Association of Australia’s technical resources and engineers, whose whole-of-industry knowledge is genuinely unparalleled.

“I would love to see more repairers get on board and go through the process, to help lift the professionalism and profile of the sector as a whole.”

CLICK HERE for more information on how your business can become accredited or email our accreditation team at [email protected]

What started as a three-month job over the Christmas period has evolved into an award-winning career move for Alannah Hein.

In this interview, the inaugural recipient of the thl – Rising Star Award shares how a childhood spent growing up around caravan parks, an unplanned career pivot and a willingness to back herself led her to a dynamic dual role in the parks sector, and where she hopes to take the industry next.

Congratulations on winning the inaugural thl – Rising Star Award.  What does winning this award mean to you?

Alannah Hein (AH): Thank you so much!  It means a great deal to me, and it feels surreal to know I am the very first recipient.  I am incredibly grateful to be recognised for the work I have put in, and it has motivated me to keep learning, contributing and making the most of every opportunity that comes my way.

I have been fortunate to work alongside people who have trusted my ideas, challenged me and supported my growth.  I would not be where I am today without them.

More than anything, I hope this award shows others that you do not need your entire career mapped out from the beginning.  Sometimes the opportunities you never planned for are the ones that lead you exactly where you are meant to be. You just need to be willing to take the chance, back yourself and put in the work once the door opens.

I am proud of what I have achieved so far, but I know I am only at the beginning of my career and that is what makes this recognition so exciting.

Great answer. So, what is your current role and what led you to where you are today?

AH: I currently wear a few different hats, dividing my time between SA Parks Association, where I work in sales and member support, and Revenue Creatures, where I assist with a wide variety of revenue, marketing and company projects.

My journey into the caravan and camping industry was not straightforward.  In December 2022, I graduated from secondary school with a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, with every intention of building a long-term career in education, eventually becoming a childcare director and, further down the track, potentially owning a centre of my own.

Shortly after graduating, I became extremely unwell with glandular fever after constantly picking up illnesses while working in childcare, and was away from work for over six months.  That experience forced me to question my career path.  I returned to childcare for a time but that career path no longer felt the same.

In December 2024, I accepted a temporary position with Edwards Group, working in central reservations for Echo Holiday Parks.  My mum jokingly mentioned the role to me, and I thought, “what do I have to lose?” I began the role believing it would last three months before I returned to education in some form.  Little did I know I would completely fall in love with the caravan and camping industry and have no desire to leave it.

Because my parents had managed caravan parks while I was growing up, much of the role felt like second nature, and I understood far more about the industry than I initially realised.  The next step was working out where my own skills, ideas and personality could fit within it.

I organised a meeting with the company’s CEO, where I openly expressed my ambitions and the value I believed I could bring.  From that conversation, I secured a new part-time parks assistance role, before being offered the opportunity to join SA Parks Association part-time in sales and member support.

In March 2026, I commenced my current part-time role with Revenue Creatures while continuing to work three days a week with SA Parks Association.  This dual-role arrangement definitely keeps me busy, but I would not have it any other way.  I love the people I am surrounded by, the opportunities I have been given and the fact that not a single day looks the same.

L-R: SA Parks CEO Fiona Williams, Alannah Hein, Jo Keown of Revenue Creatures, Caravan Industry Association of Australia Chair Donna Cocking and SA Parks Chair Stephen Edwards celebrate Alannah’s success at the 2026 Caravan Industry National Conference

As you mentioned, you come from a parks background. Has working in the industry given you a new appreciation for the sector? 

AH: When I was younger, I imagined I might work in the industry one day, designing what I believed was the coolest caravan park imaginable on Minecraft.  As I moved into my teenage years, that idea faded as I began to understand the cost of owning a caravan park, the heavy workload and the limited work-life balance that can come with operating one.

I then became genuinely passionate about early childhood education and, for a long time, did not expect to return to the caravan and camping industry at all.

What eventually drew me back was realising just how broad the industry actually is.  Growing up around parks, I had mainly seen the operational side, but once I began working professionally across the broader sector, I discovered the enormous range of opportunities that exist behind the scenes, and that being part of the industry did not mean I had to own and operate a park myself.

What makes me want to be part of it is the people, the sense of community and the opportunity to make a genuine difference.  It is an industry filled with hardworking people who care deeply about what they do, and there is something special about now working in an industry that was such a large part of my childhood.  It was not always going to be my career path, but I genuinely believe that unexpected route is part of what makes me so passionate about it today.

What do you see as the biggest challenges facing caravan holiday parks at the moment, and what solutions do you propose?

AH: The caravan and camping industry, like the rest of the world, has been navigating a polycrisis for quite some time.  Whether it is rising operational costs, changing consumer behaviour, staffing pressures, economic uncertainty or rapidly advancing technology, there will always be factors outside of our control.  We cannot prevent every challenge, but we can control how we respond, and for me, that response begins with adaptability.  The businesses that continue to adapt, innovate and embrace change will be the ones that remain successful.

The two challenges that stand out most to me in my day-to-day work are the rising cost of living and the successful integration of artificial intelligence.

With the cost of basic essentials continuing to place pressure on households, people are thinking much more carefully about where their money goes.

As parks continue to invest in larger cabins and premium facilities, I believe it is extremely important that they still maintain an affordable entry point.  Not every area of a park has to deliver the same level of revenue.

Premium cabins may generate a greater portion of income, but simpler accommodation and site options can make travel possible for families, young people and lower-income earners who may otherwise miss out altogether.

There is also a longer-term opportunity in that approach.  The guest who can only afford your most basic accommodation today may become part of your higher-spending audience in ten years’ time.  Supporting affordability is not only about filling a gap in the market today, it is also about building trust, loyalty and future guests.

From an operational perspective, another major challenge is learning how to integrate artificial intelligence efficiently and effectively into everyday work.  Twelve months ago, much of the conversation focused on reassuring operators that AI was not something to fear, that it could support them in their roles and reduce repetitive tasks rather than take their jobs.  I believe we have made strong progress in changing that perception, and the next step is showing people exactly how to use it.

Alannah has played a key role in improving member support at SA Parks

Is there anything about the industry you wish more people understood?

AH: I wish more people understood that there is so much more to the caravan and camping industry than a powered patch of grass and a four-walled cabin.  It is an industry that is constantly evolving.

What many people now view as the basic caravan park experience would have been considered a luxury 20 or 30 years ago, when you were lucky to have grass on your site rather than dirt, let alone access to power.  When cabins first began appearing in parks, people said, “that’s not camping.” Before that, similar things were said about caravans, tents and even enclosed swags.  Every new stage of the industry has challenged someone’s idea of what camping is supposed to look like.

That is what I find so inspiring about this industry.  It is constantly changing, and the people within it continue to adapt and find new ways to meet the needs of travellers, who now range from traditional campers and caravanners to families, couples, workers and long-term travellers.  The industry also contributes significantly to tourism, regional communities and the wider Australian economy, yet it doesn’t always receive the recognition it deserves for being as innovative, resilient and complex as it is.

I wish more people could see the scale of what this industry provides, how far it has come and the amount of work that goes into continuing to move it forward.  It deserves far more credit than it is often given.

On that note, what excites you most about the future of the industry, and what role do you hope to play in shaping its success?

AH: What excites me most about the future of the caravan and camping industry is seeing how it will continue to evolve for newer generations, particularly Gen Z and Gen Alpha.

Guest expectations are already changing, and I think the industry has an exciting opportunity to explore new ways of communicating and capturing attention.  Younger generations are looking for more than somewhere to sleep, they want experiences that feel personal, memorable and worth sharing.

At the same time, I believe it is incredibly important that the industry does not lose its core, the sense of community and connection should never disappear in the effort to modernise.

That is where I hope to play a role.  I want to help bridge the gap between newer generations and the existing foundations of the industry, drawing on both my understanding of my own generation’s expectations and my appreciation for the people and values that have shaped the industry into what it is today.

Caravan holiday parks are operating in an increasingly regulated market. Insurance is harder to secure, compliance expectations keep climbing and when something goes wrong, operators are expected to prove they were ready.

Help is here.

Developed in partnership with Ryan Kellen from Simplifyrisk, Caravan Industry Association of Australia’s Risk Management & Business Operations Plan and Emergency Management Plan templates give park operators practical tools to meet these day-to-day challenges.

The Risk Management & Business Operations Plan helps parks create a genuine risk mitigation culture, meet legal obligations and become a more insurable business.

The Emergency Management Plan covers preparedness, response and recovery for incidents ranging from fires and storms to on-site accidents. It helps park operators set clear roles and responsibilities for staff and provides practical procedures for keeping guests and staff safe when it matters most.

Together, the two templates give park operators a documented, defensible approach to risk and emergency management. That’s real value in a market where regulators, insurers and guests all expect the same thing – proof they were prepared.

Both templates are available for purchase, with discounts available to parks accredited through the Caravan Holiday Parks Accreditation Program.

Learn more: Risk Management & Business Operations Plan | Emergency Management Plan

With travel budgets tight, winning guest trust matters more than ever. Caravan Industry Association of Australia’s latest research shows a proven way to do this – accreditation.

The 2026 Caravan Park Guest Review Report paints a picture of an industry that continues to earn its guests’ confidence. The sector recorded a National Global Review Index™ of 85.6% for 2025, with more than 80% of all reviews rating their caravan holiday park stays positively.

It is a strong result that comes with an added takeaway for park operators: accreditation is an edge.

The accreditation gap

Accreditation sets benchmark performance levels in customer service, risk management and business planning – and it shows in the results.

Parks accredited by Caravan Industry Association of Australia outperformed their non-accredited counterparts across the year in guest satisfaction scores and engagement frequency.

That engagement matters. Accredited operators responded to a larger share of reviews than non-accredited parks, at a time when the sector responded to 50% of eligible reviews overall. Guests notice when a business listens, replies and acts on feedback, and the data shows accredited parks are doing more of exactly that.

For an industry competing for cautious, cost-conscious travellers, that difference in guest experience translates to a competitive advantage.

What else is shaping guest experiences?

Other trends worth watching:

• Review volume is high. More than 202,000 reviews were posted about the 1,000 participating parks in 2025.
• Booking.com and Google dominate. Booking.com accounted for 54% of reviews and Google 33%, underlining where operators need to focus their reputation management effort.
• International interest is growing. While English-language reviews from Australian guests on Booking.com dominated, the growing presence of international visitor reviews signals expanding appeal.
• Family travellers lead the conversation. Families generated the largest share of feedback of any traveller segment, representing 41% of total review volume.

Why it matters

Taken together, the findings reinforce that guest trust is being won and lost in the finer details. Accreditation is one of the clearest levers park operators have to influence the outcome.

This is only a snapshot of what the 2026 Caravan Park Guest Review Report has to offer. The full report includes state-by-state breakdowns, platform-level analysis and detailed benchmarking data.

Access to the full report is available exclusively to contributors to the Caravan Industry National Advocacy and Marketing Fund and parks accredited through the Caravan Holiday Parks Accreditation Program. These parks can view the report via CaravanStats.

LEARN MORE about the benefits of contributing to the fund

LEARN MORE about becoming an accredited park

Key Points

• Downtime costs more than power. Outages during peak season hit guest experiences hard.
• Hidden infrastructure, hidden costs. Decades-old wiring can mean the full price isn’t known until you’re mid-upgrade.
• Know before you go. An electrician-led audit is the best first step.

Outdated or undersized power infrastructure could be costing your caravan holiday park a whole lot more than a headache, warns Ben Johnson, General Manager of K-Mac Powerheads – a leading supplier of power solutions to parks across the country.

Ben says many parks are operating on wiring and switchboards installed decades ago, when a powered site’s running requirements were a fan and a night light. Today’s guests bring everything from coffee machines to air-conditioners, and it’s the gap between what that infrastructure was built for and what it’s now being asked to do where the cost creeps in.

As Ben explains, that cost isn’t just a bigger power bill, particularly when demand peaks.

“During certain times of the year you’re going to have more guests, and obviously the guest experience is so important these days, so they’re not going to be happy about downtime one bit,” Ben says. “Especially summertime, with hot days and air-cons running, if you’ve got outages because you’re tripping power or your infrastructure can’t keep up with the demand, that’s a big issue.”

While some parks are turning to diesel generators to get through the peak season, Ben sees this as an expensive short-term fix for a long-term problem.

“If you’re spending on diesel year-round just to run that site for six weeks, it’s time to do the math – especially with prices at the moment,” he says. “You might have to invest upfront, but the return on a good solar and battery system is going to be worth it.”

In any case, Ben says there is no substitute for due diligence.

“Start by doing a little bit of research with your electrician and go around the park to see what you’ve got there first because that could be a big cost saving there straight away, before you start thinking about your end goal.”

So, with that in mind, what other practical advice does Ben have for park owners and operators?

Watch this video with Ben to find out.

Why choose K-Mac Powerheads?

K-Mac Powerheads is accredited through the Industry Supplier Accreditation Program (SAP). Supplier Accreditation identifies businesses committed to excellence and who are strong supporters of industry. When you choose an accredited supplier like K-Mac Powerheads, you’re dealing with a company that strives for best practice in business management, sales and customer service.

Article by DLL

Australia’s RV industry operates within a distinctive commercial environment. Seasonal demand cycles, high‑value inventory and evolving consumer expectations place constant pressure on dealers to balance stock availability with cash flow.

At the same time, manufacturers rely on strong, well‑capitalised dealer networks to maintain production momentum, protect market share and bring new models to market with confidence.

As competition intensifies, financing has shifted from a background function to a strategic capability. Floorplan financing has become a strategic lever that shapes how quickly and confidently the RV ecosystem moves.

Understanding floorplan finance

Floorplan finance, also known as inventory finance, is no longer merely a tool for purchasing inventory. It has become a catalyst for performance across the entire value chain.

When structured effectively, floorplan programs do more than fund inventory. For dealers, floorplan finance reduces upfront capital requirements, provides greater flexibility in how long inventory is held before repayment, and helps manage financing costs across seasonal sales cycles.

When availability drives sales, financing becomes a strategic differentiator.

Inventory strategies shifting with demand

The profile of the RV buyer has changed dramatically in the past five years, reshaping how products are designed, marketed, and sold. Rather than reacting to short‑term trends, the industry is seeing sustained shifts around:

• Sustainability and efficiency, influencing vehicle design and technology.
• Digital‑first purchasing behaviours, including virtual walk‑throughs, transparent pricing, and frictionless online experiences.
• Younger buyers entering the market, with expectations shaped by mobility, connectivity, and affordability.

For dealers, this means carrying the right inventory at the right time. Floorplan financing allows dealerships to adapt their stock mix to changing demand by deferring the timing of capital repayment, rather than reducing their capital commitment.

Benefits to manufacturers

Manufacturers can only grow as fast as their dealer network can absorb stock. Relying solely on internal capital ties up liquidity and introduces unnecessary risk, particularly in volatile markets.

Well‑structured floorplan programs provide tangible strategic benefits:

• Dealer empowerment: Dealers can carry broader ranges, keep inventory fresher and respond rapidly to demand.
• Increased channel resilience: Seasonal demand swings are easier to manage, reducing operational disruption across dealers and manufacturers.
• Real‑time inventory clarity: Digital insights support improved forecasting and more efficient production planning.
• Faster go‑to‑market for new models: Dealers can utilise finance to confidently introduce new models without placing immediate strain on working capital.

In short, the right financial partner strengthens the entire route‑to‑market.

Benefits to dealers

Dealers today face tighter margins, longer sales cycles, and customers with higher expectations. Agility is everything.

With the right floorplan structure in place, dealers gain:

• Greater inventory diversity without tying up working capital.
• Stronger cash-flow control by aligning inventory funding with sales timing.
• Improved ability to respond to demand shifts.
• Enhanced customer experience through availability and choice.

The road ahead

The next era of the RV market will be shaped not only by vehicles and innovation, but by the financial ecosystems supporting manufacturers and dealers. Manufacturers will increasingly rely on partners who understand production economics, while dealers will need financing that provides speed, flexibility, and confidence.

Customers, meanwhile, will continue to reward brands that anticipate their needs rather than react to them.

Floorplan financing sits at the centre of this transformation.

When manufacturers and dealers partner with financers, like DLL, who bring deep sector experience, digital capability and long‑term commitment, they gain more than working capital; they gain a strategically positioned to support the future of the Australian RV market.

If you’re looking for a financing partner who understands the RV sector and can help you achieve your growth ambitions, reach out to DLL today.

Finance is provided by De Lage Landen Pty Limited (ABN 20 101 692 040) (DLL). Equipment to be used for business purposes only. Subject to DLL’s standard credit criteria, fees and terms and conditions apply.

This content was provided by DLL as part of its partnership with Caravan Industry Association of Australia. It does not reflect the views or opinions of Caravan Industry Association of Australia. References to products, services and claims made in this article should not be viewed as endorsements from Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

Sources:

Mordor Intelligence. Recreational Vehicle Market Size, Share, Trends & Research Report, 2030.

Becoming the first RVMAP-accredited rental operator isn’t just a headline for Cruisin’ Motorhomes.

It’s not the end goal either.

It’s a clear statement of intent from a company willing to invest in quality, safety and long-term improvement.

“We don’t view RVMAP as simply another accreditation or logo,” said Melanie Lucas from Cruisin’ Motorhomes. “It provides a recognised framework that encourages manufacturers to regularly review their systems, document their processes and maintain consistent standards.”

Why now?

Melanie described joining RVMAP as a “natural next step” for Cruisin’ Motorhomes – who also becomes the first Tasmania-based manufacturer in the program.

What started with just five Winnebago motorhomes 25 years ago is now a national fleet of over 700 rental vehicles, operating out of depots in Hobart, Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns and Perth.

The business still buys vehicles from Avida, but it’s also become an approved second stage manufacturer, designing and building its own campervan range in Hobart.

“Becoming a second stage manufacturer required us to make a significant investment in our manufacturing systems, quality controls and internal processes,” Melanie explained. “RVMAP complements that work and provides another level of structure and accountability.”

Compliance gains

Each vehicle in the Cruisin’ Motorhomes fleet goes through a strict servicing schedule, detailed inspections and a pre-hire quality check each time it hits the road.

The business’ real compliance edge comes from the tight feedback loop between its manufacturing and rental arms. Because Cruisin’ Motorhomes builds exclusively for its own fleet, it can track each vehicle’s lifecycle, catch servicing needs early and roll out engineering updates fast.

RVMAP accreditation adds another layer, ensuring all this work doesn’t just live in one part of the business.

“It [RVMAP] adds further structure around our documentation, inspections and quality management systems,” said Melanie. “This helps ensure that any lessons learned or improvements identified are not handled in isolation but are consistently applied across our manufacturing and rental operations.

“As an extension, RVMAP allows us to officially benchmark our high standards against the best in the Australian RV industry.”

Driving confidence

For Melanie, it all comes back to trust. RVMAP reinforces Cruisin’ Motorhomes’ standing as a professional operator, giving customers, suppliers and industry partners confidence in how the business manufactures, maintains and operates its vehicles.

There’s a broader motivation at play too. Cruisin’ sees value in supporting initiatives that lift standards across the wider RV industry, not just within its own fleet.

“We are proud to be the first rental company and the first Tasmanian-based manufacturer to join the program,” Melanie said. “More importantly, we see it as another step in continuing to improve our vehicles, our systems and the overall customer experience.”

From five vans in Tasmania to a national operation employing people right across the country, Cruisin’ Motorhomes has never stood still. Joining RVMAP is just the latest step in a business that keeps investing in creating memorable experiences for thousands of travellers, in vehicles built to handle Australian conditions.

• Stop thinking of it as a replacement

  Skip parts a CNC router or sheet metal folder already handles easily, and focus on high-complexity, low-volume problems – for example, bespoke dash fascias with digital screens, leak-prone plumbing manifolds, fiddly cabinetry joints and trim caps.

• Design for the process, not around it

  A traditional industrial designer will draw parts that are heavy and slow to print. You need someone who understands DfAM – lattice interiors for weight, print orientation for road stress, minimal support material.

• Prove it on tooling first

  Before putting a printed part on a customer’s van, print your own jigs, alignment blocks and fixtures. It builds workshop confidence with zero risk to the vehicle’s structural warranty.

• Buy for materials, not machine specs

  A printer’s build volume and speed matter less than what it can actually print. If you want to buy a printer, look for machines capable of ASA (UV and weather resistance) and engineering plastics like PETG and PA12-CF (load-bearing rigidity) – not hobbyist PLA or ABS.

By Retain Media

Twenty years ago, the average vehicle buyer visited five dealers on the path to purchase. Today, the median buying journey spans six months – double what it was in 2017.

Nowadays, buyers are time-poor and no longer physically go from dealer to dealer to do their research. Just as when they book a holiday or buy a new TV, the majority of caravan buyers do their research online before they contact anyone, and the dealership website, rather than the sales yard, is now the key asset for generating leads.

The 2022 Deloitte Dealership Benchmarks report states that dealership websites are now responsible for generating 77% of new vehicle leads, whether directly through the website or by prompting customer walk-ins.

Speed matters

In an era of same-day delivery and instant gratification, potential customers expect an immediate response. If they don’t receive one, they take their business elsewhere.

Waiting a day, or even an hour, is no longer an option if you want to convert your leads to sales.

Research consistently shows that responding to a customer’s enquiry within five minutes makes you 21 times more likely to qualify that lead.

The quicker you can respond, the more likely a lead will convert.

Follow a process 

The key to converting leads is a clear sales playbook. Without one, leads fall through the cracks and results become impossible to measure.

A strong follow-up process combines phone calls, emails and personal touches across multiple contact attempts in the days after enquiry.

Qualifying questions also make a difference early on, helping salespeople understand a buyer’s motivation, urgency, trade-in requirements and budget.

The bottom line: speed gets the lead. Follow up fast and follow up often.

Businesses with access to the industry portal can read the full article – including step-by-step advice and supporting consumer research – HERE.

This content was provided by Retain Media as part of its partnership with Caravan Industry Association of Australia. It does not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Caravan Industry Association of Australia. References to products, services and claims made in this article should not be viewed as endorsements from Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

It would be naive to pretend the past few months have been easy for our industry.

Several dealerships and manufacturers have closed their doors. For the people affected – customers, employees and suppliers among them – that pain is real. As the peak national body, we think it’s important to speak plainly about what is happening and where we see this heading.

Consolidation, not collapse

The businesses that have closed in recent weeks are genuinely difficult stories, and we do not want to minimise that. But this is not a sign that Australians have fallen out of love with caravanning.

Our latest State of the Industry Report shows the national RV fleet grew to 937,000 vehicles in 2025, a 4 per cent increase year-on-year, with more than 817,000 towable RVs on the road. That is a strong and expanding base of caravanners underpinning demand for parks, servicing, accessories and dealerships for years to come.

Feedback from dealers is consistent: stock that is already on the floor is still moving, albeit more slowly. Buyers have not disappeared, they have simply become more considered, and that is prompting more value-focused offers from dealers keen to keep inventory turning.

Lead times have also improved markedly compared with the extended waits of recent years, which points to a market working through an adjustment rather than one in structural decline.

What we are seeing is better described as consolidation. Fewer, better capitalised businesses emerging from this period is a healthier long-term outcome than an oversaturated, thinly margined market.

Reasons for optimism

Two developments should support a firmer back half of the year.

First, the spring buying season is approaching. Historically, this is one of the busiest buying windows of the year, when school holiday and end-of-year planning begins and consumers feel happier as the weather warms up.

Second, there’s greater certainty around fuel security, or a level of de-sensitivity around fuel availability. With fuel shipments through the Strait of Hormuz expected to resume (once the current new wave of conflict eases), retail petrol prices will hopefully move away from shock earlier peaks.  Should that trend continue, it removes one of the more direct handbrakes on touring intentions and, by extension, on caravan purchase decisions.

Our outlook

There will likely be more bumps in the road before this settles. That’s the nature of a market working through a correction rather than coasting through a boom.

The fundamentals remain the same: a large and growing base of caravan owners, a culture of camping ingrained in Australia’s national identity and a market shedding excess capacity rather than losing its customer base.

That’s exactly why we’re supporting No Better Time, a $3 million industry stimulus campaign backed by our state trade association members. It’s a direct investment in giving Australians the confidence to get back on the road, back into a dealership and back behind the wheel of the right van for them.

That’s the story our industry has always told best: there’s always a way forward. There has been pain. There may be a little more yet. But what’s taking shape on the other side is a stronger, more sustainable industry.

As always, our door is open. If you’d like to talk through any of this, get in touch with the team at Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

Stuart Lamont
CEO
Caravan Industry Association of Australia

Caravan Industry Association of Australia and our state trade associations have united behind the largest market stimulus in industry history.

The No Better Time campaign is a three-year, $3 million commitment designed to bring more Australians to the open road and through your doors.

What’s now live

The campaign’s consumer platform, nobettertime.com.au, went live in early July. Backed by targeted digital advertising, syndicated media and influencer partnerships, it connects new and existing RV buyers with the information and inspiration they need to make their move, through three content pillars: education and safety, real-world owner experiences and towing guidance.

For industry businesses, this means a steady flow of consumers arriving better informed, more confident and closer to a buying decision.

Dealer directory

At the heart of the campaign is a forthcoming dealer directory, connecting Australians with more than 400 accredited RV dealerships nationwide. Dealerships have already been contacted to secure their listing ahead of the platform’s launch. If you haven’t registered yet, now is the time: nobettertime.com.au/dealer-directory-onboarding.

Mark your calendar

The campaign’s first major national activation – a National Dealer Open Day on 5 September – gives dealerships across the country a shared moment to engage consumers simultaneously. It’s a chance to convert campaign-driven interest into foot traffic on the day, backed by national campaign momentum rather than going it alone. More details will be made available over the coming weeks.

Participating state trade associations: Caravanning Queensland, Caravan & Camping Industry Association NSW, Caravan Industry Victoria, Caravan & Camping SA and Caravan & Camping Western Australia, with support from Caravan Industry Association of Australia. 

Website:nobettertime.com.au
Register your dealership:nobettertime.com.au/dealer-directory-onboarding

Most salespeople talk. Wayne Chevis listens.

As Assistant National Sales Manager for MDC Campers and Caravans (MDC), Wayne has built his reputation on steering customers toward the right product – even when that means a smaller sale.

That philosophy earned him the 2026 Ultimate Business Systems – RV Salesperson of the Year Award, presented at the Caravan Industry National Conference Gala Dinner in May. In this interview, he explains what it takes to earn trust in a market of increasingly educated and discerning customers.

Congratulations on winning the 2026 Ultimate Business Systems – RV Salesperson of the Year Award. What does it mean to you?

Wayne Chevis (WC): I can honestly say it means the world to me. To be recognised as a standout among such a talented group of peers in a large and competitive industry is a tremendous honour. It’s also particularly special because it’s something I set my mind to from the moment the award was introduced in 2025.

My career journey has taken me through a variety of industries and roles – from serving in the Australian Defence Force to working as a chef to warehousing, logistics and leading teams of all sizes. Across every role, I’ve always challenged myself to be the best I can be and to lead people in the way I would have wanted to be led.

This award is a reflection not only of my own efforts but also of the incredible teams, mentors and colleagues who have supported me along the way. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together, and I’m excited about what the future holds for both our business and our industry.

In your acceptance speech you spoke passionately about the resilience of the industry. For those who weren’t in the room, what was the message?

WC: We’ve seen an increase in companies leaving the market over recent years and that puts pressure on everyone involved – from manufacturers and suppliers through to sales teams. Most importantly, it impacts the end user. When consumers see businesses struggling or closing their doors, it can create uncertainty and erode confidence that those businesses will be around for the long term.

At the same time, it’s been a testament to the resilience of our industry. The businesses that have weathered the storm have adapted, remained focused on their customers and emerged stronger as a result. Many of those companies have now stepped into industry leadership positions, helping to drive innovation, confidence and growth across the sector. It’s a reminder that while challenges can test us, they can also strengthen us and create opportunities for those willing to evolve and persevere.

You’re MDC’s Assistant National Sales Manager. How did you get here and how have you evolved as a salesperson along the way?

WC: Since joining MDC in January 2020, I’ve built my experience across a few different areas of the business – customer experience, product knowledge dealership operations. Working with MDC Campers and Caravans, I’ve developed a solid understanding of the full range, from entry-level campers through to more advanced off-road touring vans.

I’ve also been involved in internal training through things like the MDC Training Database, which keeps staff consistent and confident on product detail. This has strengthened my ability to communicate technical information in a clear and practical way.

A big part of my role has been helping customers find the right setup for how they actually travel. That takes more than knowing the product – you need to understand how these vans perform in real conditions, from towing to setup and durability in the bush.

On that note, no two customers are the same. How do you work out what someone actually needs?

WC: Correct, there’s no one-size-fits-all. Before I recommend anything, I ask questions – travel style, towing capacity, budget, where they’re heading, who’s coming along. From there I can narrow things down to what genuinely suits them rather than just showing them everything on the lot.

A young couple chasing weekend off-grid trips needs something compact, easy to tow and quick to set up. A family on extended tours needs space – bunk layouts, water capacity, a solar setup that handles longer stays. An experienced traveller looking to upgrade wants to talk build quality, suspension and advanced features. They already know what hasn’t worked for them.

The goal is always the same – listen first, then match the right RV to their lifestyle so they feel genuinely confident in the decision.

Interesting. Do you see that customer-first mindset becoming the norm across the industry – and if so, what does it tell us about the Australian RV market more broadly?

WC: The post-COVID boom has settled and the market is maturing. That’s not a bad thing. Customers are more cautious now – cost-of-living pressures mean they’re doing more research and expecting more value for their money. That raises the bar for everyone.

Consolidation is already happening. Dealerships that align with reliable suppliers and hold themselves to high standards will be well placed.

On the product side, demand for better solar setups, lighter materials and stronger off-grid capability is growing, and sustainability is becoming a bigger factor in both design and buying decisions.

The role of the salesperson is changing. It’s less about selling a van and more about guidance, education and long-term support.

The dealers who thrive won’t be the ones who move the most units – they’ll be the ones customers trust enough to come back to, and to recommend to others.

You’ve completed the Caravan Industry Salesperson Accreditation Program. Why was becoming accredited important to you and how does it show up in your day-to-day work?

WC: Becoming accredited was important to me because I believe that professionalism and knowledge are critical in building trust with customers. Purchasing a caravan or RV is a significant investment for most people, and I wanted to ensure I had the industry knowledge and expertise to provide the best possible advice and guidance throughout that journey.

The Caravan Industry Salesperson Accreditation Program gave me a deeper understanding of the products, regulations, industry standards and customer expectations that shape our industry. It reinforced the importance of not just selling a product but helping customers make informed decisions that suit their lifestyle and needs.

All of our sales team at MDC and a number of senior management are part of the Salesperson Accreditation Program and it is part of our company-wide vision for continuous improvement and development. Being an annual accreditation, it means our team gets a refresher every 12 months and stays up to date with industry changes.

In my day-to-day work, that accreditation shows up in the confidence I can give customers. Whether it’s explaining product features, discussing compliance requirements, answering technical questions or helping a family find the right caravan for their adventures, I can draw on that knowledge to provide accurate information and a higher level of service. Ultimately, it helps me deliver a better customer experience, build long-term relationships based on trust and credibility and ensure every customer feels supported throughout their buying journey.

Presenting research from the 11th annual State of the Industry Report at this year’s National Conference, Peter Clay, Caravan Industry Association of Australia’s General Manager of Research and Insights, outlined the key trends shaping the sector across manufacturing, RV supply and registrations, accommodation performance, domestic travel demand and the broader economic outlook.

Here are some of the key takeaways and projections from Peter’s presentation.

Domestic demand remains strong 

Australians took 17.3 million caravan and camping trips during 2025, generating 57.9 million visitor nights and $12.6 billion in expenditure. 

While Australians are still travelling, they are increasingly prioritising value. Average trip length has fallen to 3.4 nights, with travellers taking shorter, closer-to-home holidays and making decisions later. 

Importantly, 87% of caravan and camping trips continue to take place in regional Australia, reinforcing the industry’s critical contribution to regional communities and economies. 

Record caravan park revenue 

Caravan parks generated a record $3.3 billion in revenue in 2025, an increase of 7% year-on-year or approximately $207 million. 

Occupancy and revenue improved across cabins, powered sites and unpowered sites, supported by higher rates and stronger yield. New South Wales also exceeded $1 billion in annual caravan park revenue for the first time. 

RV ownership continues to grow 

Australia’s registered RV fleet increased by 4% to approximately 937,000 vehicles in 2025, including more than 817,000 towable RVs and 119,000 motorised RVs. 

This expanding ownership base provides a strong foundation for future demand across parks, servicing, repairs, accessories, dealerships and tourism experiences. 

Manufacturing has stabilised 

Australian manufacturers produced 23,963 RVs during 2025, down 5% on the previous year but still 12% above 2019 levels. 

Towable vehicles remain the backbone of Australian production, accounting for 96% of output. Caravan production was particularly strong, increasing by 7.3% to 18,438 units. 

At the same time, caravan trailer and component imports increased by 16% to 23,244 units, demonstrating that substantial new supply continues to enter the Australian market. 

Resilience in a more cautious consumer environment

Cost-of-living pressures, subdued consumer confidence and competition from international travel continue to influence purchasing and travel decisions. 

For trade businesses, consumers are taking longer to move from enquiry to purchase, delaying upgrades and increasingly considering used or lower-priced products. This is supporting demand across the aftermarket and service sectors as owners retain their RVs for longer. 

For parks and destinations, shorter trips and increased sensitivity to fuel costs are likely to favour locations closer to major population centres, while remote and long-haul destinations are facing greater exposure. 

The market is changing, but demand has not disappeared. Caravan and camping continue to offer Australians an affordable, flexible and highly valued way to travel, connect and explore the country. 

With a growing national RV fleet, strong domestic travel demand and caravan park revenue at record levels, the industry remains well positioned to adapt and capitalise on changing consumer preferences while managing the economic headwinds ahead.  

To find out more about accessing the report, email [email protected]

For caravan holiday parks, online visibility is everything. Whether travellers are planning their next holiday, searching for accommodation or exploring destinations, your park needs to be where they are looking. 

The Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW) is Australia’s national tourism distribution platform, powering thousands of tourism websites and helping businesses connect with travellers across the country and around the world. By maintaining an active ATDW listing, caravan holiday parks can significantly increase their digital presence while reducing the time and effort required to manage multiple listings. 

Listing is free in all states except Victoria. If you are a Victorian-based Caravan Industry Accredited Park, a reduced fee is applied.  

For more information and to join, head to ATDW Single National Platform 

Caravan Industry Association of Australia will conduct a joint seminar with ATDW on how best to maximise your profile, including setting up and ongoing management in the coming weeks. If you have any further questions, please contact us at [email protected]  

One listing, hundreds of opportunities 

An ATDW profile allows your park’s information, images and key details to be distributed across a network of tourism websites, including state, regional and national tourism platforms. Rather than updating information in multiple locations, you can manage a single listing and have changes automatically reflected across participating distributor websites. 

Reach more travellers 

ATDW listings help caravan holiday parks gain visibility with travellers during the planning and booking stage of their journey. Listings can appear on trusted tourism websites used by domestic and international visitors, helping drive awareness, website traffic and booking enquiries. 

Boost website traffic 

A well-maintained ATDW profile can help improve your park’s online discoverability by creating additional pathways back to your website. Many destination organisations report that ATDW listings help drive qualified traffic while supporting broader search engine optimisation efforts. 

Additional marketing opportunities 

Many state and regional tourism organisations use ATDW as the foundation for their marketing programs, campaigns and industry initiatives. An optimised profile can increase opportunities to participate in destination marketing activities and promotional campaigns. 

Showcase your park at its best 

ATDW allows operators to upload high-quality imagery, videos, descriptions and special offers, helping travellers better understand the experience on offer. Regularly updating your profile ensures your park remains relevant, competitive and appealing to potential guests. 

Simple step, long-term benefits

For caravan holiday parks, an ATDW listing is one of the most cost-effective digital marketing tools available. It provides broader exposure, supports destination marketing efforts, improves discoverability and helps ensure your business is visible wherever travellers are researching their next holiday. 

If your park already has an ATDW listing, take the time to review and optimise it. If you are not yet listed, now is the ideal opportunity to ensure your park is represented across Australia’s tourism distribution network. 

ATDW Fees by Region (Australia) 

Please note: ATDW listing arrangements can change and may vary by state, region or local tourism organisation. This information was compiled from publicly available sources and is believed to be accurate at the time of publication. Operators should confirm current listing costs and eligibility requirements directly with their relevant tourism organisation. 

For caravan holiday parks looking to improve operational systems and demonstrate a commitment to industry best practice, there has never been a better time to become accredited.

Caravan Industry Association of Australia has recently overhauled the application process for its Caravan Holiday Park Accreditation Program, making it easier than ever for operators to access the tools they need to succeed.

What's new?

New and improved workbook

The 2026 Caravan Holiday Park Accreditation Workbook has been refreshed to provide clearer guidance and practical support for park operators embarking on the accreditation journey. More than just a checklist, the workbook explains the value behind each accreditation requirement and how adopting recognised industry standards can strengthen business operations, improve risk management and enhance the guest experience.

Operators will also benefit from guidance on the evidence required throughout the application process, helping remove uncertainty and making it easier to prepare a successful submission.

VIEW WORKBOOK HERE

Simpler application process

The online accreditation application has also had an overhaul. Designed with park operators in mind, the updated platform provides clearer instructions for each criterion and outlines exactly what supporting evidence is required. When used alongside the new workbook, the application process is more streamlined and user-centric.

What's coming?

In the coming weeks, Caravan Industry Association of Australia will release a revamped suite of business process and policy templates, further strengthening the extensive library of resources available to accredited parks.

Why Accreditation Matters

Accreditation is more than a badge of recognition. It demonstrates a commitment to quality, professionalism and continuous improvement. With a simplified application process and an expanding resource library, there has never been a better opportunity for caravan holiday parks to become accredited.

Start your accreditation journey HERE

The 2026 Caravan Industry National Conference wasn’t just the biggest in the event’s history – it was a powerful reminder of the strength, resilience and ambition driving Australia’s caravan and camping industry.

Didn’t make it to the Gold Coast, or you were too busy networking, learning and exploring the exhibition floor to catch every session? Here are eight key takeaways from the event.

1. Record attendance reflects confidence

A record-breaking 1,100 delegates and more than 140 exhibiting businesses came together, highlighting continued confidence in the sector and a strong appetite for learning and improvement.

2. Shared challenges, collective solutions

Key discussions centred on rising operating costs, regulatory pressure, workforce constraints, evolving consumer behaviour, technological disruption and sustainability. A consistent theme across sessions was the importance of working together to turn challenges into opportunities.

3. Valuable assets

Multiple speakers reinforced continued demand for caravan and camping holidays, driven by Australians prioritising value, flexibility and closer-to-home travel. RV ownership growth and shifting travel preferences continue to reinforce the value of long-term investment in industry infrastructure and services.

4. Technology is reshaping the sector

From AI-driven customer engagement and digital payment methods to advanced manufacturing techniques such as 3D printing and CNC machining, technology is emerging as a major enabler of efficiency, improved customer experience and new revenue streams.

5. Leadership and wellbeing critical priorities

Sessions highlighted the importance of leadership capability, workforce engagement and mental wellbeing as key foundations for sustainable business performance in a rapidly changing environment.

6. Global insights, local opportunities

International and economic perspectives underscored both uncertainty and opportunity. While global conditions remain volatile, speakers noted that domestic travel markets are often more resilient during periods of international instability.

7. Consumer expectations are evolving

Delegates heard that today’s caravan and camping customer is more informed, value-conscious and experience-driven, requiring businesses to adapt across marketing, service delivery and product offerings.

8. Make time to celebrate excellence

In times of challenge, it is important to recognise achievement. The Conference Gala Dinner featured the presentation of the 2026 Caravan Industry Awards and the Eric Hayman OAM Award for Excellence, while the launch of the Industry Heroes tribute celebrated the people helping shape the future of the sector.

In summary

If there was one message to emerge from the 2026 Conference, it was this – the industry’s future is being shaped right now. The businesses that embrace innovation, invest in people and adapt to changing consumer expectations will be best placed to thrive in the years ahead. CLICK HERE to read our full event wrap.

Amid challenging market conditions and rapid industry change, the 2026 Caravan Industry National Conference showcased the resilience, adaptability and collaborative spirit driving Australia’s caravan and camping sector forward.

A record 1,100 industry professionals gathered at RACV Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast from 13–15 May for this year’s event, taking in expert insights, networking with industry peers and participating in future-focused discussions shaping the industry’s next chapter.

Bringing together every corner of the sector, an expanded trade exhibition featured more than 140 industry-aligned businesses showcasing everything from ice creams to washing machines, while more than 50 keynote and expert speakers delivered a dynamic mix of strategic insights, practical business advice and inspiring personal stories.

Across both the exhibition floor and speaker program, pressing industry issues dominated conversations, including rising operating costs, inflationary pressures, supply chain disruptions, shifting consumer and traveller behaviour, technological advancements, workforce challenges and the transition to more sustainable business practices.

Caravan Industry Association of Australia CEO Stuart Lamont said the event highlighted the importance of a united industry working together to build a resilient and sustainable future.

“The beauty of the National Conference is that it provides an unparalleled opportunity to come together, exchange ideas and have important discussions about the industry’s future, all in one place,” Lamont explained.

“To have record attendance numbers at such a pivotal time for industry businesses demonstrates a genuine commitment to collaboration, innovation and long-term growth.

“The passion and ingenuity shown over the past three days proves our industry won’t just meet these challenges – it will turn them into opportunities for growth.”

Day One: Setting the tone

The conference opened with a packed program of professional development and masterclass sessions, covering topics from media management and leadership to revenue discipline and emerging manufacturing technologies.

Delegates also explored the expanded trade exhibition, which buzzed with activity from the moment doors opened on Wednesday afternoon. The exhibition featured the latest products, technologies and services shaping the future of the industry, while the centrally located Manufacturing Hub showcased innovations in 3D printing, additive manufacturing, CNC machining, laser cutting and engraving.

The Main Stage program opened with a welcome from Caravan Industry Association of Australia Chair Donna Cocking, who encouraged delegates to view the industry’s current challenges as opportunities to adapt, innovate and emerge stronger – as the sector has done for decades. She also acknowledged the people and businesses whose dedication and resilience have helped shape the industry, with their contributions celebrated through the event’s striking ‘Avenue of Heroes‘ display.

Big-wave surfer Mark Mathews delivered a powerful keynote on gratitude, resilience and sustaining high performance under pressure, while finalists for the thl Industry Leadership Award (Under 40) explored the topics of sustainability, technology, customer experience and the industry’s evolving identity in an engaging panel discussion.

The opening day wrapped up with a gourmet spread of food and drinks at the conference’s official Welcome Function, followed by a crowd-pleasing session of ‘Rockaoke’.

BDO South Australia has received the caravan and camping industry’s highest honour, the prestigious Eric Hayman OAM Award for Excellence, recognising more than 20 years of leadership in research, data and analytics that has helped shape the sector’ future.

Led by Rudy Pieck, Angus Strachan, Sean Augustin and Talis Evans, the BDO South Australia team has become a driving force behind the industry’s evolution in data capability and evidence-based decision making.

Its work dates back to 2004 with the development of the Accommodation Pricing Tool. When the Federal Government ceased collecting Australian Bureau of Statistics data for the sector in 2010, the national caravan industry body turned to BDO South Australia to fill the gap. Since then, the team has played a central role in building the industry’s research and analytical framework.

BDO South Australia’s insights have informed everything from caravan holiday park performance and RV sales to land lease communities, vehicle registrations, consumer behaviour and broader tourism and economic trends. The impact has extended well beyond industry associations, helping park operators, manufacturers, industry stakeholders and governments better understand the scale and economic value of the sector nationwide.

The team’s contribution has been particularly critical during periods of disruption. Through bushfires, the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing fuel and economic pressures, BDO South Australia has delivered modelling, forecasting and real-time analysis that helped decision makers respond quickly to emerging challenges facing regional communities.

Much of this work has been undertaken beyond normal commercial expectations, reflecting a commitment to strengthening the resilience and sustainability of Australia’s caravan and camping industry.

Angus accepted the award on behalf of the BDO South Australia team at the Caravan Industry National Conference Gala Dinner last Friday (15 May). READ MORE about our 2026 Caravan Industry Award winners.

The Caravan Industry Awards have once again honoured the leaders and innovators driving excellence across Australia’s caravan and camping sector.

Presented during the 2026 Carvan Industry National Conference Gala Dinner last Friday (15 May), the awards recognised outstanding achievement and dedication within the industry.

The industry’s highest accolade, the Eric Hayman OAM Award for Excellence, was bestowed upon the team at BDO South Australia for its outstanding contribution to the industry through more than 15 years of leadership and expertise in advancing the sector’s research, data and analytical maturity. READ MORE about BDO South Australia’s contribution to the industry.

Caravan Industry Association of Australia congratulates this year’s award winners, and thanks them for their valuable contributions to the caravan and camping sector.

Richard Davis OAM Award

The Richard Davis OAM Award was presented to Bill Thiel, recognising his service to the peak national body through his technical expertise and commitment to safety and standards. Bill has made a significant contribution to gas regulation, industry education and compliance programs, including RVMAP and RV Gas Ready.

Gerry Ryan AO Award for Innovation

Jason Filippini received the Gerry Ryan AO Award for Innovation for his development of a subterranean battery system that helps caravan holiday parks reduce energy costs, improve infrastructure efficiency and operate with greater flexibility – delivering a multi-layered return on investment.

thl Industry Leadership Award (Under 40)

The thl Industry Leadership Award (Under 40) was presented to Erin Stevenson of Storable (Newbook). Over 13 years, Erin’s relentless focus on improving operational structure and customer success has driven growth and key transitions at Newbook, helping transform the business from a start-up into a market-leading hospitality management platform.

thl Rising Star Award

Alannah Hein took home the inaugural thl Rising Star Award, recognising her outstanding potential and contribution to fostering a collaborative and supportive industry culture through her work with SA Parks Association and Revenue Creatures. A special mention to runners up Matilda Coles and Matthew McDonald.

Ultimate Business Systems – RV Salesperson of the Year Award

The Ultimate Business Systems – RV Salesperson of the Year Award went to Wayne Chevis of Market Direct Group – MDC Campers and Caravans, recognising his professionalism, commitment to best-practice customer service and his work developing staff sales training initiatives.

Christie Barbecues Community Engagement Award

The Christie Barbecues Community Engagement Award went to the Caravan Trade & Industries Association of Queensland for its VanSafe Program, recognising a community-driven initiative that addresses critical road safety issues while strengthening trust between the caravan industry and the travelling public.

Chairperson’s Awards

Donna Cocking presented the Chairperson’s Award to Martin Banham, David McIvor and Andreas Bischof (pictured left) – each recognised for their outstanding contributions to the industry’s advancement.

People’s Choice Awards

The industry’s People’s Choice Awards were also presented during the evening. RVMAP People’s Choice Manufacturer of the Year Awards, sponsored by DLL, went to:

• Gold Motorised: Avida Motorhomes
• Gold Towable: Concept Group
• Silver Towable: Millard Caravans
• Bronze Towable: Hilltop Caravans

Article by DLL

Australia’s RV industry operates within a distinctive commercial environment. Seasonal demand cycles, high‑value inventory and evolving consumer expectations place constant pressure on dealers to balance stock availability with cash flow.

At the same time, manufacturers rely on strong, well‑capitalised dealer networks to maintain production momentum, protect market share and bring new models to market with confidence.

As competition intensifies, financing has shifted from a background function to a strategic capability. Floorplan financing has become a strategic lever that shapes how quickly and confidently the RV ecosystem moves.

Understanding floorplan finance

Floorplan finance, also known as inventory finance, is no longer merely a tool for purchasing inventory. It has become a catalyst for performance across the entire value chain.

When structured effectively, floorplan programs do more than fund inventory. For dealers, floorplan finance reduces upfront capital requirements, provides greater flexibility in how long inventory is held before repayment, and helps manage financing costs across seasonal sales cycles.

When availability drives sales, financing becomes a strategic differentiator.

Inventory strategies shifting with demand

The profile of the RV buyer has changed dramatically in the past five years, reshaping how products are designed, marketed, and sold. Rather than reacting to short‑term trends, the industry is seeing sustained shifts around:

• Sustainability and efficiency, influencing vehicle design and technology.
• Digital‑first purchasing behaviours, including virtual walk‑throughs, transparent pricing, and frictionless online experiences.
• Younger buyers entering the market, with expectations shaped by mobility, connectivity, and affordability.

For dealers, this means carrying the right inventory at the right time. Floorplan financing allows dealerships to adapt their stock mix to changing demand by deferring the timing of capital repayment, rather than reducing their capital commitment.

Benefits to manufacturers

Manufacturers can only grow as fast as their dealer network can absorb stock. Relying solely on internal capital ties up liquidity and introduces unnecessary risk, particularly in volatile markets.

Well‑structured floorplan programs provide tangible strategic benefits:

• Dealer empowerment: Dealers can carry broader ranges, keep inventory fresher and respond rapidly to demand.
• Increased channel resilience: Seasonal demand swings are easier to manage, reducing operational disruption across dealers and manufacturers.
• Real‑time inventory clarity: Digital insights support improved forecasting and more efficient production planning.
• Faster go‑to‑market for new models: Dealers can utilise finance to confidently introduce new models without placing immediate strain on working capital.

In short, the right financial partner strengthens the entire route‑to‑market.

Benefits to dealers

Dealers today face tighter margins, longer sales cycles, and customers with higher expectations. Agility is everything.

With the right floorplan structure in place, dealers gain:

• Greater inventory diversity without tying up working capital.
• Stronger cash-flow control by aligning inventory funding with sales timing.
• Improved ability to respond to demand shifts.
• Enhanced customer experience through availability and choice.

The road ahead

The next era of the RV market will be shaped not only by vehicles and innovation, but by the financial ecosystems supporting manufacturers and dealers. Manufacturers will increasingly rely on partners who understand production economics, while dealers will need financing that provides speed, flexibility, and confidence.

Customers, meanwhile, will continue to reward brands that anticipate their needs rather than react to them.

Floorplan financing sits at the centre of this transformation.

When manufacturers and dealers partner with financers, like DLL, who bring deep sector experience, digital capability and long‑term commitment, they gain more than working capital; they gain a strategically positioned to support the future of the Australian RV market.

If you’re looking for a financing partner who understands the RV sector and can help you achieve your growth ambitions, reach out to DLL today.

Finance is provided by De Lage Landen Pty Limited (ABN 20 101 692 040) (DLL). Equipment to be used for business purposes only. Subject to DLL’s standard credit criteria, fees and terms and conditions apply.

This content was provided by DLL as part of its partnership with Caravan Industry Association of Australia. It does not reflect the views or opinions of Caravan Industry Association of Australia. References to products, services and claims made in this article should not be viewed as endorsements from Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

Sources:

Mordor Intelligence. Recreational Vehicle Market Size, Share, Trends & Research Report, 2030.

Caravan Industry Association of Australia is pleased to announce the finalists for three of its 2026 Caravan Industry Awards, to be presented at next week’s Caravan Industry National Conference on the Gold Coast.

Industry Leadership Award (Under 40)

The thl Industry Leadership Award (Under 40), formerly known as the Future Leaders Award, shines a spotlight on those already making a significant impact early in their careers.

The finalists for this year’s award are:

• Ben Johnson (K-Mac Powerheads)
• Breeanna McNamara (Wide Bay Caravans)
• Brooke Turner (Broadwater Tourist Park)
• Erin Stevenson (Storable Newbook)
• Jacob Graham (OzXCorp)
• Melita Mogg (Tweed Holiday Parks)

The six finalists will take part in a judging process at RACV Royal Pines Resort next Tuesday (12 May), before joining a group panel discussion during the National Conference’s opening plenary session on Wednesday (13 May).

A special thanks to thl for its ongoing support of this award.

Rising Star Award

Three finalists are in the running for the inaugural thl Rising Star Award, which recognises outstanding potential, genuine passion and a clear ambition to make a lasting contribution to the industry. The award is open to individuals aged 40 years or under, or those who have been in the industry for less than two years.

The finalists for this year’s award are:

• Alannah Hein (SA Parks Association and Revenue Creatures)
• Matilda Coles (Sunshine Coast Holiday Parks)
• Matthew McDonald (Broadwater Tourist Park)

A special thanks to thl for its support of this award.

RV Salesperson of the Year Award

Outstanding sales professionalism will be recognised through the presentation of the Ultimate Business Systems – RV Salesperson of the Year Award. The recipient will demonstrate exceptional customer service, product knowledge and understanding of consumer law, while contributing to their business’s success.

The finalists for this year’s award are:

• Andrew Sloan (Market Direct Group)
• Louis Shepherd (Green RV)
• Vicky Taylor (Find My Van)
• Wayne Chevis (Market Direct Group)

The four finalists will participate in a judging process next Tuesday ahead of the National Conference.

A special thanks to Ultimate Business Systems for its support of this award.

All three awards will be presented at next Friday’s  (15 May) Caravan Industry National Conference Gala Dinner, alongside other prestigious industry accolades, including the Eric Hayman OAM Award for Excellence, the Richard Davis OAM Award for contributions to the peak national body and the Gerry Ryan OAM Award for Innovation.

Caravan Industry Association of Australia CEO Stuart Lamont congratulated the finalists on their achievements.

“The standard of nominations across all award categories was exceptional this year, reflecting the talent, commitment and passion of the people who make our industry what it is,” Lamont said.

“Congratulations to all our finalists. We look forward to celebrating you, along with other significant industry contributors, at next week’s event.”

REGISTER HERE for the 2026 Caravan Industry National Conference.

With extreme weather events on the rise, visitor numbers growing and regulatory requirements becoming increasingly complex, caravan holiday parks face more risks than ever before. To help industry businesses stay safe, compliant and prepared, Caravan Industry Association of Australia has partnered with Ryan Kellen from Simplifyrisk to develop a tailored Emergency Management Plan specifically for the caravan park sector.

This templated plan helps park operators respond effectively to any emergency, covering:

• Preparedness, response, and recovery arrangements for incidents ranging from fires and storms to on-site accidents.
• Clear roles and responsibilities for staff to ensure swift, coordinated action.
• Practical procedures and guidelines for responding to specific emergency events, keeping guests and staff safe.

The Emergency Management Plan template system is now available for purchase via the link below.

Set along Western Australia’s stunning south-west coast, it’s hard to imagine there’s a care in the world at BIG4 Middleton Beach Holiday Park.

Yet for owners Joshua Shuttleworth and Melanie Stock, some of the realities will be all too familiar to many readers – workforce pressures, rising operating costs and increasing competition across the accommodation market.

Melanie shares how they’re navigating these challenges and continuing to deliver the high-quality guest experience the park is known for.

Can you start by telling us a little bit about your caravan holiday park?

Melanie Stock (MS): We’re a proudly family-owned and operated caravan holiday park, set right on the beachfront in Albany, Western Australia, with direct access to the beach. Our guests wake up to the sound of the ocean, take in uninterrupted views, and enjoy some of the most stunning sunrises you’ll see along the coast.

We offer a wide range of accommodation to suit all travellers, from powered sites with shade cloth or concrete slabs through to ensuite sites, a variety of cabins for couples and families, and our more luxurious beach houses.

The park itself is designed to feel like a relaxed coastal resort, with a swimming pool, two playgrounds, a giant jumping pillow and a fully equipped recreation centre. During peak season we run a kids club and even a movie theatre. We also have a convenience store, camp kitchen, BBQ areas, laundries, and beautifully maintained gardens throughout the grounds.

We’re pet-friendly on sites outside of peak season, and we’re lucky to be close to a popular dog beach. With eateries within walking distance, easy access to town and walking and cycling paths right at our doorstep, we see a great mix of families, couples and business travellers.

How long have you been running your park, and what’s the most rewarding part of the job for you?

MS: We officially took over ownership last July but Josh has been involved here for more than 18 years, and I’ve been here for over a decade, so it certainly feels like home. We’re really happy to be raising our three boys here – they love being part of ‘park life’ – whether that’s enjoying the facilities after school or making new friends with visiting families.

The most rewarding part for us is being able to continue a long-standing local business while providing something genuinely enjoyable for people.

We take a lot of pride in offering a high-quality experience, creating local employment and maintaining a safe and positive workplace for our team. Hearing consistent positive feedback from guests means a lot, and it’s satisfying knowing we’re contributing to Albany’s tourism and community.

It’s also a great outlet for our own drive and creativity – at the end of the day, we’re creating a place where people come to relax and make happy memories, and that’s pretty special.

What are the biggest challenges facing caravan holiday park operators today and how are you tackling them?

MS: Like many in the industry, recruitment and retention of good staff has been a challenge in the past. I’m pleased to say that we now have a great team in place – our staff are happy and so are we. We achieved this by refining our recruitment processes, taking a more deliberate approach to selecting the right people and setting clear expectations from the outset. Just as importantly, we’ve focused on building a team culture that is positive, supportive and consistent, where everyone understands their role and feels valued.

We’re also seeing increased competition from short-term rental platforms like Airbnb, alongside rising operating costs and general cost-of-living pressures that affect our guests’ ability to travel. Our approach is to stay focused on delivering quality, value and a reliable guest experience – something we know keeps people coming back.

Can you tell us about any innovative services or experiences you offer to enhance the guest experience?

MS: For us, innovation starts with getting the basics right – cleanliness, well-maintained facilities and genuinely friendly service.

From there, we add experiences that make a stay memorable, especially for families. Our kids’ club is always a highlight, with activities like craft sessions, clown performances and even beach exploration programs run with a marine scientist.

We’ve also introduced an AI-powered phone and chat service, which helps answer guest enquiries instantly and can even assist with bookings. It means less waiting time for guests and a smoother experience overall.

What steps are you taking to make your park more sustainable?

MS: Sustainability is something we’re continuing to build on. At the moment, we have Containers for Change bins onsite, with proceeds going to charity, and we actively recycle and donate usable items to second-hand shops. We’ve also introduced compostable coffee pods in our cabins and beach houses, we prioritise local suppliers and support local products through our shop.

From an infrastructure perspective, we’ve installed LED lighting and operate a solar-heated pool to reduce energy use.

Looking ahead, we’ve had approval for an EV charging station.

Your park is accredited through the Caravan Holiday Parks Accreditation Program. What value does this bring to your business and your guests?

MS: Accreditation provides an added level of trust and reassurance for our guests, letting them know they can expect a certain standard when they stay with us. It also helps us maintain those high industry standards internally, which is something we take seriously.

From a business perspective, it offers valuable representation and support for caravan holiday parks like ours, ensuring we’re not operating in isolation when it comes to industry challenges. It strengthens both our credibility and our connection to the broader tourism sector.

The Caravan Holiday Park Accreditation Program sets the standard for industry best practice. Designed for operators who lead with professionalism, the program recognises parks committed to excellence in customer service, risk management, and business planning. LEARN MORE about how your park can become accredited.

What started as a simple caravan and camping holiday has turned into a $1 million opportunity for one Yeppoon family and a clear win for our industry.

The 2025/26 Road to a Million (RTAM) campaign has proven that the right incentive and messaging can do more than capture attention – it can directly influence travel behaviour.

In fact, 32 per cent of RTAM entrants said the recently completed campaign directly influenced their decision to book a caravan holiday park stay, reinforcing the growing role of collaborative, nationally coordinated marketing in driving occupancy to record highs over the 2025/26 summer.

A life-changing chance

The campaign is built on a simple but compelling hook – every night stayed at a participating caravan holiday park earns travellers an entry into the draw to play for $1 million.

When Yeppoon’s Monica Heaslip received the email confirming she was the primary winner of the consumer-facing competition, she didn’t quite believe it.

“I honestly had to read it a few times because I was so shocked,” she said. “I texted my husband straight away and he couldn’t believe it either.”

Monica now heads to the Million Dollar Draw at Ingenia Holidays Kinka Beach in mid-April, where she will play for $1 million – and a guaranteed $5,000 prize.

Delivering measurable industry impact

Beyond the headline prize, RTAM is delivering tangible results for the caravanning and camping sector.

The 2025/26 campaign generated more than 429,000 booked nights across 1,297 participating parks nationwide.

Through national marketing exposure, including a hero activation with the Seven Network’s Sunrise program, the campaign reached 4.3 million Australians, significantly amplifying awareness of the sector.

“At a time when cost-of-living pressures and geopolitical tension are influencing travel decisions, the campaign helped position caravanning and camping as one of Australia’s most accessible, affordable and flexible holiday options,” said Keelan Howard, General Manager of Marketing at Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

“Through entry incentives linked to the competition, RTAM not only encourages Australians to travel, but to go further – to see that next town or stop at the next landmark.”

Shifting consumer behaviour

Post-campaign data highlights the depth of RTAM’s influence on traveller behaviour:

• 32% of surveyed entrants said the campaign directly influenced their booking in some form
• 24% booked additional nights
• 65% said camping was brought ‘front of mind’
• 36% considered a trip they otherwise wouldn’t have taken

According to Howard, these results point to a broader shift in perception.

“Camping is no longer seen as a compromise, it’s being viewed as ‘affordable freedom’, delivering flexibility, connection to nature, and meaningful time with family and friends,” he said.

“Importantly, these figures reinforce that demand for travel remains strong.”

What this means for operators

For caravan holiday park operators, the implications appear to be clear – targeted national campaigns like RTAM are not just building awareness, they are actively shaping traveller behaviour.

This is evident in the December 2025 to February 2026 caravan holiday park occupancy figures collated by Caravan Industry Association of Australia, which show national occupancy rates reached all-time monthly highs across all accommodation types – cabins, powered sites and unpowered sites.

“The ability to influence one in three travellers at the point of decision highlights the commercial value of campaigns that combine strong consumer incentives with broad media reach,” Howard added.

“RTAM demonstrates that when the industry works collectively, it can unlock added demand, encourage Australians to travel further and convert intention into bookings.

“In a market increasingly defined by value, flexibility and experience, caravanning and camping is not just keeping pace – it is setting the agenda for flexible, affordable travel.”

LEARN MORE about Road to a Million.

A special thanks to the following state associations for financially supporting the Road to a Million campaign: Caravan & Camping Industry Association NSW, Caravan Parks Association of Queensland Ltd (CPAQ), Caravan Industry Association Western Australia, SA Parks, Caravanning Tasmania and Caravanning NT.

Amid growing concern over fuel prices and the supply-chain effects of the Iran conflict, trade association CEOs from across Australia met in Perth last week to discuss strategic priorities for the caravan industry.

Key topics addressed at the meeting included:

• The current state of the market.
• The number and value proposition of state-run consumer shows.
• The role of branded and consistent-quality camping equipment in attracting new participants to the caravanning and camping lifestyle.
• Development of a collaboratively funded national brand review focused on the essence of caravanning and camping.
• Coordinated national PR messaging highlighting value-for-money holidays and flexible travel.
• Strategies to encourage existing owners to use their products more frequently.
• Support for members operating bricks-and-mortar retail dealerships.

The Perth meeting followed a similar session at the Victorian Caravan & Camping Supershow in February and will be followed by another at the Caravan, Camping & Holiday Supershow in Sydney next month.

Stuart Lamont, CEO of Caravan Industry Association of Australia, welcomed the collaborative discussions among state trade associations.

“There is no doubt the market has become more challenging. While interest in our products remains strong, conversion to sales is being impacted by consumer hesitation to spend on high-priced items,” Stuart said.

“State associations are working more closely than ever to share insights and ensure member funds are invested in initiatives that deliver tangible benefits to the entire industry.”

Stuart noted that the current fuel crisis, while a source of consumer concern, also presents an opportunity to promote caravanning and camping as an attractive solution for Australians seeking flexible, family-friendly getaways.

“Australia is home to some of the world’s most remarkable destinations. Even in challenging times, it is important to encourage Australians to explore and make the most of caravan and camping experiences,” he said.

READ Stuart’s message to industry members regarding a new a national digital campaign reinforcing the value of caravanning and camping as one of the most affordable and flexible ways to travel.

Our Accreditation Programs Manager, Mark Shipton, recently presented to members of the Caravan Parks Association of Queensland (CPAQ) and Caravan and Residential Parks Victoria (CRP Vic), focusing on practical approaches to managing risk in caravan holiday parks.

The webinars explored common operational risks and highlighted how the Caravan Holiday Parks Accreditation Program sets structured standards and consistent processes to support safer, more efficient park environments.

Both sessions were well attended and prompted strong discussion around continuous improvement, as well as compliance with Work Health and Safety (WHS) requirements. Particular attention was given to recreational facilities within parks and the risks associated with guest use.

Mark will also be attending several upcoming industry events, including the Caravan Industry National Conference in May, followed by the SA Parks and CRP Vic conferences in July and August, where he will be available to continue these conversations with operators.

South Australia inspections

Mark has also been visiting accredited parks across South Australia as part of a series of scheduled assessments.

The visits covered a broad region, including Adelaide, Clare, Port Pirie, Port Augusta, Whyalla, Cowell and Coffin Bay.

Across the board, operators demonstrated a strong commitment to refining their processes, with a clear focus on practical risk management and maintaining positive guest experiences.

The assessments identified a generally high level of alignment with industry standards, with only minor actions required in some parks to address specific risk management areas.

If any park operator would like to know more about the national Caravan Holiday Parks Accreditation Program, please contact Mark today.

Our accreditation team hit the road in early March, visiting dealerships in Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast.

Staff at Green RV, Caravan World and Adventure Caravan Centre warmly welcomed Accreditation Programs Manager Mark Shipton and Compliance Engineer Lachlan Carpenter, who carried out the periodic assessments required under the Retail Dealership Accreditation Program (RDAP).

Mark and Lachlan were happy to report that all visited dealerships demonstrated high levels of compliance with accreditation standards, showcasing best practices across business planning, HR management, risk management, sales and customer service.

“It was especially encouraging to see dealer principals actively supporting the Caravan Industry Salesperson Accreditation Program, with most staff either already accredited or preparing to submit their applications,” said Mark.

RDAP encourages dealership owners and principals to pursue continuous improvement, helping their businesses thrive in one of the most competitive sectors of the industry.

These audits not only focus on compliance but also on a genuine commitment to business excellence, ensuring customers receive top-tier service at every dealership.

The Retail Dealership Accreditation Program (RDAP) is administered by Caravan Industry Association of Australia. It identifies highly professional, ethical and customer-focused businesses ready to assist with your next RV purchase. Subject to stringent independent audits of business practices – including compliance with Australian Consumer Law (ACL) – accredited caravan and RV dealerships are committed to best practice in business management, operational policies and procedures, sales and customer service.

To learn more about the Retail Dealership Accreditation Program CLICK HERE, or contact:

• Lachlan Carpenter – [email protected]
• Mark Shipton – [email protected]

Caravan Industry Association of Australia’s Accreditation Programs Manager, Mark Shipton, visited Tasmania earlier this month, meeting with caravan holiday park operators across the state to discuss a range of industry issues.

With the summer season drawing to a close, Mark was pleased to report that nearly all parks visited were “very happy” with their bookings throughout the opening months of 2026. Many operators indicated that strong demand is expected to continue through to Easter – particularly if the warm, sunny conditions continue.

Encouragingly, a number of park managers also expressed interest in joining the Caravan Holiday Park Accreditation Program, recognising its value in strengthening operational standards, enhancing risk management practices and reinforcing consumer confidence.

The final stop on Mark’s visit was Stanley, in Tasmania’s far north-west, where he presented to an engaged audience at the Caravanning Tasmania Members Forum.

During the forum, Mark shared important risk management data collected through accreditation site visits to parks across the country. His presentation highlighted key operational areas that frequently require closer scrutiny to minimise or eliminate potential risks.

A significant focus was placed on the risk of injury associated with recreational facilities commonly found in holiday parks – including pools and waterparks, playgrounds and inflatable jumping pads and pillows. These insights were drawn from recurring risks identified during accreditation audit assessments and provided practical guidance for operators seeking to improve safety outcomes.

The presentation was well received, with attendees expressing strong interest in a follow-up forum in Hobart later this year.

To read more about the Caravanning Tasmania Members Forum, CLICK HERE

To speak to Mark about risk management in your park, email: [email protected]

Article by HR Legal

Each year, ANZAC Day and Easter public holidays present compliance challenges for employers, particularly those operating across multiple jurisdictions or within hospitality, retail and essential services. While public holidays are often viewed as automatic ‘days off’, the legal position under Australian employment law is more complex.

Employers often need to carefully manage requirements to work, consider the potential substitution of public holidays and account for restricted trading obligations to minimise legal and operational risk.

Across Australia, most states/territories recognise Good Friday and Easter Monday as public holidays. However, there are some differences in which other days over the Easter period are formally recognised by each state or territory.

Further, while ANZAC Day is observed on 25 April each year, its operation as a public holiday varies across the states or territories. In 2026, the New South Wales and West Australian governments have imposed an additional public holiday on Monday, 27 April, in addition to the traditional 25 April date (a Saturday in 2026), due to ANZAC Day falling on a weekend this year. The ACT has transferred the public holiday to Monday, 27 April in 2026.

In addition to employment law obligations, ANZAC Day is subject to specific trading restrictions and commemorative requirements, particularly in the morning. Employers should be cautious of how they approach rostering and operational planning on this day.

Working on a public holiday

Under the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) (FW Act), permanent employees are entitled to be absent from work on a public holiday and are entitled to their normal pay for that day if the public holiday falls on a day they would normally work.

However, employers may request that an employee work on a public holiday, provided the request is considered as ‘reasonable’. An employee may refuse to work on a public holiday where the refusal itself is ‘reasonable’.

Whether an employer’s request or an employee’s refusal to work on a public holiday is reasonable depends on a number of factors, including:

• The nature of the employer’s requirement.
• The employee’s role and responsibilities.
• The employee’s personal circumstances (e.g. caring responsibilities).
• Whether the employee will receive any additional pay (e.g. penalty rates).
• Whether the employee was given adequate notice of the request.

Employers should also be mindful that Modern Awards and Enterprise Agreements may impose additional obligations, including enhanced penalty rates or minimum engagement periods on public holidays.

Substituting public holidays

Many Modern Awards and Enterprise Agreements mandate substituted days off work for public holidays or may otherwise allow for the substitution of a public holiday with another day by mutual agreement.

Substitution can provide flexibility for both employers and employees, particularly where operational continuity is required or employees prefer to take an alternative day off. Where an employee is not covered by a Modern Award or Enterprise Agreement, a business may still agree with the employee to substitute the public holiday for another day off work.

Restricted trading

ANZAC Day is subject to strict state-based retail trading restrictions, particularly during the morning. In many jurisdictions, non-exempt businesses are prohibited from opening before 1pm, with some variations depending on location and business type. Easter public holidays, especially Good Friday and Easter Sunday, are also subject to trading restrictions in several states and territories.

These trading laws operate independently of employment law obligations. Even where employees are willing to work, businesses must comply with applicable trading legislation. Breaches can attract significant penalties for both companies and individuals.

Key takeaways

ANZAC Day and Easter public holidays require a tailored approach rather than a blanket solution. Employers should ensure they have correctly identified public holiday entitlements, reviewed applicable Modern Awards and Enterprise Agreements, and carefully assessed whether requests to work are reasonable and properly communicated. Any substitution arrangements should be clearly documented, and trading restrictions confirmed before staff are rostered to work.

Proactive planning and early advice can assist employers in navigating these obligations while balancing operational requirements with employee rights and entitlements. If your business requires further assistance in checking the entitlements that apply to your workplace, please contact HR Legal for further legal advice: [email protected]

This content was provided by HR Legal as part of its partnership with Caravan Industry Association of Australia. It does not reflect the views or opinions of Caravan Industry Association of Australia. References to products, services and claims made in this article should not be viewed as endorsements from Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

Caravan Industry Association of Australia and Pedders Suspension & Brakes have delivered a national RV road safety campaign, aimed at improving vehicle compliance and towing performance for Australia’s booming caravan and camping community.

The three-month Better Journeys initiative put education front and centre, helping RV owners understand critical safety considerations before hitting the road.

With more Australians choosing road-based holidays than ever before, ensuring vehicles are properly equipped and compliant has become essential. The campaign clarified common areas of confusion around towing limits, axle loads and vehicle modifications, translating technical information into practical, everyday guidance for travellers.

Key educational themes included:

• Monitoring real-time vehicle and axle weights with onboard scale technology.
• Using GVM+ upgrades to maintain compliant load management.
• Ensuring braking performance is optimised for caravans and camper trailers.

Through a mix of social media, digital content, video education and direct consumer outreach, Better Journeys reached more than 456,000 Australians, delivering over 1.2 million impressions, 221,000 video views and 34,000 website page views – demonstrating strong engagement with practical, safety-focused content.

Caravan Industry Association of Australia General Manager – Marketing & Communications, Keelan Howard, said partnerships like this are vital for supporting responsible RV ownership.

“As more Australians embrace the freedom of touring, safety and compliance must remain front of mind. Education empowers travellers to make informed decisions about their vehicles, upgrades, and towing practices, ensuring safer journeys for everyone on the road,” explained Howard.

The campaign is part of Caravan Industry Association of Australia’s ongoing commitment to safe, compliant and sustainable caravanning. By collaborating with trusted industry partners, the association continues to strengthen consumer awareness around responsible RV ownership and vehicle standards.

Having spent two decades in the caravan and RV sector, James Field brings deep technical expertise and commercial leadership to his role as General Manager – Commercial and Product at Market Direct Group.

From workshop floors to national industry leadership and now overseeing a global product strategy, James offers an experience-backed perspective on compliance, innovation and the evolving Australian RV market.

Let’s start at the beginning – tell us about your professional background and how you found your way into the caravan industry.

James Field (JF): I’ve spent close to 20 years in the caravan and RV sector, starting in 2006 with hands-on roles in caravan workshops and service centres.

With qualifications in cabinetmaking, automotive technical operations and manufacturing, I moved into workshop management before transitioning into technical training, developing vocational resources for RV service and repairs.

I then spent six years with Caravan Industry Association of Australia. As Chief Technical Officer, I worked closely with government and industry on standards, regulations and the Recreational Vehicle Manufacturing Accreditation Program (RVMAP).

In 2021, I joined Market Direct Group as Technical and Compliance Manager. Over the past five years, I’ve transitioned into my current role as the group’s General Manager – Commercial and Product.

What does this role entail?

JF: In my role today, I lead Market Direct Group’s commercial strategy, model and product development, offshore manufacturing partner operations, marketing and technical standards across our brands in Australia and the United States.

What excites you about working in this sector?

JF: It’s practical and constantly changing. We’re designing products that people genuinely use to travel around Australia, often in demanding conditions, so getting it right matters.

The work is hands-on and collaborative, involving suppliers, dealers and internal teams to balance design, performance and compliance.

Customer expectations, technology and regulations are always evolving, which keeps the industry challenging and interesting. There’s a real satisfaction in seeing well-designed, well-built products being used as intended and knowing the decisions we make directly impact safety, reliability and customer experience.

What do you see as the biggest challenges facing the Australian caravan industry, and how is your business navigating them?

JF: The Australian caravan industry is facing rising customer expectations, rapid advancements in technology and an increasingly crowded market with hundreds of competing brands.

At the same time, purchasing a caravan is a discretionary decision, so factors like interest rates and cost-of-living pressures directly impact buyer confidence.

At Market Direct Group, we’re navigating this by focusing on product and market diversification, ensuring our ranges evolve to meet different customer needs and price points. Innovation plays a big role here, not just in features but in design, usability and ownership experience.

We also actively participate in voluntary industry programs like RVMAP and the Caravan Industry Salesperson Accreditation Program to build trust, professionalism and confidence in a highly competitive market.

As you mentioned, a number of Market Direct Group’s Australian-based sales staff are accredited through the Caravan Industry Salesperson Accreditation Program. Why does this matter – to your customers and to the business?

JF: For us, accreditation through the Caravan Industry Salesperson Accreditation Program matters because it elevates professionalism across the industry and sets clear expectations for customers about the level of product knowledge and ethical conduct they can expect from our sales teams.

Buying a caravan is a significant investment and often involves complex product choices, technical features and compliance implications. When our sales staff are accredited, customers can trust they are dealing with knowledgeable professionals who understand vehicle standards, tow-vehicle matching, safety considerations and regulatory compliance.

Our participation in the Caravan Industry Salesperson Accreditation Program reinforces our commitment to quality customer outcomes and supports our dealer network in delivering consistent, informed advice.

Looking ahead, how do you see the Australian RV retail market changing, and what will it take for businesses like yours to stay competitive?

JF: I expect we’ll see increased market consolidation as the industry matures. This is already happening and will likely accelerate as rising costs and a crowded marketplace put pressure on smaller or less agile operators.

The Australian caravan market is evolving, with imported products now competing strongly alongside Australian-made brands. Ultimately, consumers decide what best suits their needs. Some buyers will always prefer to purchase Australian-made caravans, and that choice is completely valid, but the reality is there are now many options available across the market.

At Market Direct Group, we stay competitive through a strong global business model, combining an exclusive offshore manufacturing partnership with a strong team based in Australia focused on design, compliance and quality. That balance allows us to deliver well-engineered caravans that tick all the boxes while remaining accessible to a broader market.

The Caravan Industry Salesperson Accreditation Program helps consumers identify industry leaders in sales and service. It recognises their professionalism and knowledge of Australian Consumer Law requirements, as well as best practice customer service and ethical sales behaviours. LEARN MORE about how you or your business can become accredited.

In 2026, Caravan Industry Association of Australia is delivering a nationally coordinated campaign to support and promote its member state associations’ caravan and camping shows.

This is not a standalone program. It is a structured national framework aligned across five states and 17 major consumer shows, ensuring participating state associations benefit from a shared strategy and professional marketing capability.

National platform driving local results

Collectively, the program delivers:

• Over 1 million targeted email communications annually.
• Organic amplification via 239,000 Facebook and 24,500 Instagram followers.
• Professional PR distribution through Isentia.
• Access to digital paid services and enriched audience segments
• National endorsement and referral traffic via Let’s Go Caravan & Camping.

This represents an investment of up to $141,000 in national audience reach, amplification and PR support, excluding earned media outcomes.

Importantly, all optional paid investment is directed 100 per cent to media placement, with no administration or management deductions, while state associations gain access to Caravan Industry Association of Australia’s 1.2 million+ digital audience.

The result is greater reach, stronger marketing efficiency and enhanced commercial outcomes across the national show network.

Strengthening the value chain

Caravan and camping consumer shows remain critical conversion moments for:

• Dealers generating qualified leads.
• Manufacturers showcasing innovation.
• Parks and tourism operators driving bookings.
• Suppliers engaging directly with consumers.

Caravan Industry Association of Australia’s coordinated investment reinforces these events as key commercial platforms, supporting performance across the industry value chain.

As the 2026 show calendar unfolds, this aligned national approach ensures caravan and camping continues to lead as one of Australia’s most trusted and value-driven holiday sectors.

“Our state-run caravan and camping shows are cornerstone events for the industry,” said Stuart Lamont, CEO of Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

“This program is about strengthening commercial outcomes for our members and reinforcing caravan and camping’s leadership as Australia’s leading value holiday choice.”

Emerging leaders from across the caravan and camping industry gathered in Canberra last week to discuss key issues shaping the sector’s future.

Coordinated by Caravan Industry Association of Australia, the day-long program included our annual Future Forum workshop and our latest Friends of Caravanning event at Parliament House. Attendees also observed our February National Board meeting.

These events provided a valuable platform for gaining deeper insight into the key issues shaping our industry from diverse perspectives.

They also played a vital role in strengthening our advocacy efforts by humanising industry priorities – connecting policymakers with the real-world aspirations, challenges and opportunities experienced by industry businesses. Engagement with Members of Parliament, Senators and their staff was both constructive and highly encouraging.

Participants represented the full breadth of the industry, including manufacturers, suppliers, retailers, repairers and caravan holiday park operators. This diversity enriched discussions and ensured barriers to success were considered from a whole-of-industry perspective, rather than through the lens of any single segment.

The level of optimism, professionalism and enthusiasm on display reinforced our confidence that the future of the caravan and camping industry is in capable and committed hands.

Set against the backdrop of Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, BIG4 Apollo Bay Pisces Holiday Park combines coastal appeal with forward-thinking operations.

Marketing Manager Fiona Davidson shares insights into how the park is meeting evolving guest expectations, embracing sustainability initiatives and navigating rising operational costs.

Can you start by telling us a little bit about your caravan holiday park?

Fiona Davidson (FD): Our park is located in Apollo Bay on Victoria’s iconic Great Ocean Road. It offers a relaxed coastal setting directly opposite the beach and is just a 15-minute walk from the town centre.

We provide a wide range of accommodation options, including three-bedroom beach houses, glamping tents overlooking the ocean, and powered and unpowered sites. We welcome families, couples, solo travellers and group stays.

Recent upgrades include our nightly sound and light show, along with a new indoor facility [pictured bottom of page] that’s perfect for events, groups or mid-week conferences, when we’re not using it for all-weather activities within the park.

We also have a strong focus on improving accessibility across the park, because everyone deserves a holiday, right? Combined with our natural surrounds – including views of the ocean and the Otway Ranges – and a growing calendar of activities and events, we aim to create an inclusive and memorable experience for every guest.

How long have you been running your park, and what’s the most rewarding part of the job for you?

FD: I started running the park in September 2003 with my husband, Adrian. We thought we’d give it 12 months to see if we liked it — and here we are still!

The best part of the job is hearing guests say at checkout, “none of us want to leave.” Hearing that is so rewarding.

What are the biggest challenges facing caravan holiday park operators today, and how are you tackling them?

FD: Rising costs and operational expenses are the biggest challenges. We’ve introduced solar systems across the park where possible and are currently trialling a new greywater recycling system in our amenities block. We’re looking forward to reviewing the financial data from this trial.

Can you tell us about any innovative services or experiences you offer to enhance the guest experience?

FD: One of our standout innovations is our immersive sound and light show [pictured below], which runs every night of the year. The show features four animated films, aired on a rotating basis, that bring the history of the area to life. It creates a unique experience that both entertains and educates guests.

It’s a highlight for families and visitors of all ages and is designed to make every evening at the park truly memorable.

Interesting. How else is technology changing the way your park runs?

FD: As we know, technology is always changing, so it’s important to change with it.

We’ve streamlined our booking system to enhance the guest experience, including communicating with guests via SMS and introducing a guest portal for payments. This helps reduce wait times at check-in.

We also control the temperature of our heated amenities building via mobile phone.

An electrical device fitted to our water meter alerts us if water usage is above normal, allowing us to quickly investigate. We then use an underground camera to locate leaks and repair any damage.

What steps are you taking to make your park more sustainable?

FD: We’ve introduced a range of sustainability initiatives, including removing single-use toiletries, installing food waste bins in all cabins and around the park and adding recycling crates to cabin decks to make recycling easier.

We’ve also increased the number of bin stations throughout the park and installed an off-site worm farm.

We encourage our guests to help us reduce our footprint and be part of our sustainability journey.

Your park is accredited through the Caravan Holiday Parks Accreditation Program. What value does this bring to your business and your guests?

FD: Being accredited through the Caravan Holiday Parks Accreditation Program shows that we meet high standards in safety, cleanliness, facilities and customer service.

For our guests, it provides peace of mind – they can trust that their stay will be comfortable, well maintained and enjoyable.

For us, it helps maintain our reputation as a high-quality park and gives our team a clear framework to continually improve the experience for everyone who stays.

The Caravan Holiday Park Accreditation Program sets the standard for industry best practice. Designed for operators who lead with professionalism, the program recognises parks committed to excellence in customer service, risk management, and business planning. LEARN MORE about how your park can become accredited.

Demand for caravan holiday park accommodation has hit record highs, aided by a strong response to Caravan Industry Association of Australia’s Road to a Million campaign. 

New data from the association shows park occupancy reached all-time December highs across every accommodation category in 2025. The December quarter also set new benchmarks for cabin, powered and unpowered site occupancy. 

Launched in early October, Road to a Million promotes nearly 1,300 caravan holiday parks nationwide, with a simple consumer hook – every night stayed earns an entry into the draw to “play for $1 million”. 

“The further you travel, the more entries you receive, encouraging caravanning consumers to enjoy the delights of a caravanning and camping holiday while pumping money into regional communities,” said Caravan Industry Association of Australia CEO Stuart Lamont. 

More than 63,770 Australians have entered Road to a Million so far, generating over 340,000 booked nights for caravan holiday parks and strengthening long-term engagement with the camping lifestyle. 

“While the grand prize certainly grabs attention, Road to a Million is really about re-acquainting Australians with a holiday activity that is quintessentially Australian,” Lamont said. 

Real-time survey results underline Road to a Million’s impact: 

• More than 60 per cent of entrants said it put caravanning and camping front of mind. 
• Over 36 per cent said it influenced them to choose camping over hotel or apartment stays. 
• One in five said they would choose camping instead of an overseas holiday package. 

Tania Mitchell and her family are among the thousands of Australians who have embraced caravanning as part of Road to a Million. Speaking about the experience, Tania said:

“Caravanning has given our family the chance to spend quality time together and explore parts of Australia we’d never otherwise see. 

“It’s great to see campaigns like Road to a Million getting more families out on the road and supporting regional communities. We truly have the best backyard!” 

Key December 2025 Statistics

• National cabin occupancy reached 64 per cent, a record for the month and up one percentage point on December 2024.
• Powered site occupancy rose to 49 per cent, up two percentage points on December 2024, while unpowered site bookings increased by one point to 26 per cent – both new December highs.
• The Gold Coast (87 per cent) led cabin occupancy in December, followed by the Sunshine Coast (83 per cent) and the NSW Central Coast (80 per cent). 
• Perth recorded the highest powered site occupancy at 85 per cent, ahead of the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast (both 77 per cent). 
• The December quarter of 2025 (three months to 31 December) set a new Q4 benchmark across all categories. National cabin occupancy averaged 67 per cent, up three points from a year earlier.

This data was first published in Caravan Industry Association of Australia’s Accommodation Insights – December 2025 report.

LEARN MORE about Road to a Million.

A special thanks to the following state associations supporting the Road to a Million campaign: Caravan & Camping Industry Association NSW, Caravan Parks Association of Queensland Ltd (CPAQ), Caravan Industry Association Western Australia, SA Parks, Caravanning Tasmania and Caravanning NT.

LP Gas cylinders are a common feature on Australian recreational vehicles, providing an efficient and practical energy source for cooking, heating, and refrigeration – especially in unpowered camping locations. However, they also pose significant risks if the gas system or its components malfunction.

Gas cylinders store gas in liquid form under high pressure. Any damage or breach to a cylinder or its immediate connections can lead to the uncontrolled release of gas and, in the presence of an ignition source, potential explosions. Gas installation standards have been developed to minimize and, where possible, eliminate these risks.

Rules and regulations

Recreational vehicle gas installations are required to comply with Australian Standard AS/NZS 5601.2:2020 Gas Installations, Part 2: LP Gas Installations in Caravans and Boats for Non-Propulsive Purposes. Section 3.2 of this standard sets out the installation requirements for gas cylinders mounted on a recreational vehicle.

Importantly, the gas cylinder mounting requirements of the standard apply to any gas cylinder mounted on a recreational vehicle. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Cylinders mounted externally on the A-frame.
• Cylinders mounted inside a gas compartment.
• Cylinders connected to fixed piping.
• Spare cylinders stowed or mounted for transport.

Secure mounting

Cylinders must be secured in place by attachments that withstand a load equal to four times the weight of the full cylinder and its fittings, in all directions. (Refer clause 3.2.1.)

Externally-mounted cylinder restraints must consist of metallic components. Restraints located completely within a cylinder compartment or locker may be constructed from other materials. However, these must still be able to withstand the required loads (as described above).

Some elements of a good restraint system:

• Strong attachment to the vehicle structure – secure bolts, sufficient welding.
• Ensure any plastic mounts are sturdy – no flex.
• Secure grip around the cylinder – tight straps, sufficient strap width or multiple straps.
• Restrain only one (1) cylinder in each retention strap.
• Secure the base of the cylinder against movement – non-slip materials, recessed cavity, locating rings or fittings around the base.

Some things to avoid:

• Self-drilling screws, tack welds.
• Webbing straps encircling more than one cylinder.
• Webbing straps that cannot be tightened around the cylinder body.
• Flexible plastic mountings.
• Metal-on-metal contact with the cylinder surface – mounting straps, webbing ratchet fittings.
• Unsecured base of cylinder.

The cylinder mounting can be very simply tested by attempting to push or rock the gas cylinders by hand. A good restraint system should prevent movement of the cylinders, either horizontally along the base/floor, or in a tilting motion.

Protection of cylinder

Gas cylinder mountings, while ensuring sufficient strength, must not excessively load or damage the cylinder. This is especially important to consider in vehicle installations, where there is considerable vibration exposure due to road inputs through the vehicle.

When metallic components are used in the cylinder restraints, an insulating strip must be present between the surface of the cylinder and the restraints. For example, a rubber strip between a metallic clamping band and the cylinder.

The mounting system must also ensure there is no physical contact between adjacent cylinders.

Spare cylinders

Any cylinder that is stowed in or on a recreational vehicle is deemed to be installed for the purposes of compliance with the gas standard. Therefore, it must meet the same mounting requirements, even if the cylinder is not connected to appliances or piping when stowed. (Refer clause 3.1.10.)

Summary

Regardless of its location, any gas cylinder that is stowed or mounted on a recreational vehicle must be securely restrained against movement and protected from damage.

Further details can be found on the RV Gas Ready website.

This article was prepared by the RVMAP Compliance Team, which includes some of the most experienced, caravan-specific inspectors in the country. Any questions regarding this information can be emailed to [email protected].

Disclaimer: The information provided in this document is general and is provided in good faith. Readers must make their own investigations or seek specific advice on their particular individual circumstances. Caravan Industry Association of Australia Limited, its employees, contractors and agents are not liable in any way including, without limitation, for negligence, in connection with this document or for any errors in or omissions from this document, or any new understanding of the law whether arising from any legislative instruments or the decision of any court or tribunal, whether before or after this document was prepared, first published, distributed or used.

Customer service, not sales tactics, drives the experience at True North RV.

It’s a philosophy championed by founder Jessica Herring, who combined a diverse professional background with a lifelong love of the outdoors to launch her Mount Gambier-based dealership in late 2023.

Jessica’s dedication to creating exceptional customer experiences earned her the inaugural Ultimate Business Systems – RV Salesperson of the Year Award in May.

In this interview, Jessica shares how her skillset, hands-on expertise and passion for caravanning shape every customer interaction.

Congratulations on winning the inaugural Ultimate Business Systems – RV Salesperson of the Year Award. What does this accolade mean to you?

Jessica Herring (JH): This award means so much. Like so many people in a vast range of industries, you don’t set out to win awards; you aim to do the very best job you can do. An award is just a nice validation that you are making a difference and you are on the right path.

I have been absolutely overwhelmed with support since winning the 2025 RV Salesperson of the Year, and it has really given me some credibility when new customers – who have never heard of my dealership – do some research and realise they are in good hands.

Winning the RV Salesperson of the Year has helped build trust with complete strangers before they have even met me, due to the esteemed reputation of Caravan Industry Association of Australia. Knowing the association has chosen me for this award shows the quality of my service and my reputation.

While being named the award’s winner was an unforgettable experience, I was also very grateful for the connections I made through attending the Caravan Industry National Conference.
I also won the Emerging Business of the Year at the SA Caravan and Camping Awards, so it has been a very memorable year for me, one I will never forget!

Has winning the award changed anything for you?

JH: My two children have really taken more of an interest in ‘mum’s work’! Both now want to come along and help me out with some of the tasks, such as washing caravans and even helping me move the vans around the yard – we call it musical caravans.

They have really stepped up in these past few months and can see my vision for the future of the business, which I really want them to be a part of. I can certainly see the potential for them to work for the business when they are old enough to do so.

I must say, it’s pretty awesome when they want to try to skip school for the day to come and help me at True North RV.

Can you tell us about your professional background, and your pathway into the industry?

JH: I have a diverse professional background, including a trade qualification in graphic design, experience in retail sales and a diploma in social-media marketing. I worked as a television commercial producer for seven years, then later as a marketing officer and manager at a large Catholic college for eight years.

These skills and experiences, combined with my love of camping, the outdoors, and caravans – I have towed vans and horse floats across the countryside my whole adult life – inspired me to explore career opportunities in the industry.

In December 2023, I followed my passion and opened my own dealership, True North RV, in Mount Gambier, South Australia.

How has this diverse experience and passion influenced the way you run your dealership?

JH: As any good marketer knows, you must know your product. I really love the product I sell; I use it regularly and know it inside out.

My practical knowledge of towing has helped immensely with customer service, as I can offer honest advice based on my own experiences.

My goal from the start was to offer the absolute best in customer service, from the initial consultation through to after-sales support, making the whole process a pleasure for the customer.

It is so important to actually deliver after-sales service, not just promise it. You have to be available when things go wrong or when customers need extra help. They need to feel supported and that’s why our team is always there to help.

With the overwhelming support and positive reviews I’ve received, I couldn’t be happier with the foundations I’ve laid for True North RV.

Given this ethos, how important is it to customise the buying experience for different customers?

JH: This is my speciality. I pay close attention to matching the right caravan to each customer, asking plenty of questions, politely, about their needs. By asking the right questions, the customer feels supported by my honest, low-pressure approach and can make decisions at their own pace.

When a customer collects their caravan on handover day, I go the extra mile to make the experience memorable. For family vans, I ask the ages of the children and place age-appropriate gifts in their bunks – a touch parents really appreciate.

Each customer also receives a tailored handover basket, customised to their caravanning experience. A first-time owner will receive different goodies in their hamper compared to someone buying their third or fourth van.

Because customers are eager to hit the road, the small details matter. I provide a starter kit with each caravan and ensure the sullage hose has brass connections, and the water tanks and gas bottles are full, allowing them to set off on their adventure without a worry.

You’re clearly invested in the long-term success of your business. How do you see the Australian RV retail industry evolving over the next few years?

JH: I believe it will keep going from strength to strength. The number of first-time caravan owners will continue to grow, helped by the power of social media in showcasing what our remarkable country has to offer. Travelling Australia by caravan really has become a sought-after dream for many couples and families.

I believe competition in the industry is healthy. If you have a great product with great service and a great reputation, you will always have a strong customer base.

Improved industry regulations will also strengthen the market by giving buyers confidence that their caravans are high-quality and built to high standards.

Personally, I look forward to the growth of my business and meeting more amazing customers who I now call my friends. It’s what makes me enjoy my role more each day.

Australia’s largest camping promotion continues to deliver outstanding results, with more than 43,000 travellers taking part in the Road to a Million campaign within its first two months.

A key strategic objective of the campaign has been to encourage RV owners to recognise the ongoing value of vehicle ownership, not only through a major prize incentive but by inspiring them to hit the road more often.

Early results show this message is resonating.

“When RV owners experience the value and joy of regular travel, they become campers for life. This leads to upgrading their RVs over time to suit evolving needs, lifestyles and budgets,” said Keelan Howard, General Manager of Marketing at Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

“This long-term engagement is essential in building a sustainable and vibrant caravanning, camping and manufacturing industry.”

National brand with unmatched reach

Developed by Caravan Industry Association of Australia and delivered in partnership with select state associations, Road to a Million has become one of Australia’s most recognisable camping brands. The campaign is underpinned by a highly-visible marketing program, including a hero activation with the Seven Network’s Sunrise program.

With 1,300 participating caravan holiday parks, the campaign’s strength lies in its national footprint, unrestricted by borders, state silos or corporate brands – ensuring travellers see consistent, trusted messaging wherever they go.

“It reinforces camping as a mainstream, accessible and high-value holiday for all Australians,” said Howard.

Strong participation

The campaign has attracted over 444,000 entries from 43,000 entrants to date, generating a remarkable 211,000 nights of travel across October and November alone.

According to campaign survey results, around 70 per cent of entrants identify as RV owners, highlighting the campaign’s strong appeal in this market.

Within this group:

• Large caravans remain the preferred RV of choice.
• Small caravans followed closely as the second most popular vehicle type.
• Motorhomes ranked third, further reflecting the diversity and maturity of Australia’s RV market.

Camping: The popular pick

Survey results also reinforce the popularity of caravanning and camping within the holiday market.

• 37.17 per cent of respondents chose camping instead of hotel or apartment holidays.
• 21.07 per cent chose camping in place of an overseas package holiday.

This reinforces caravanning and camping as a preferred, high-value alternative during a time of rising travel costs – emphasising the sector’s resilience and growth potential.

Building momentum through summer

Launched on 1 October and running until the end of February, Road to a Million is perfectly timed to capture the peak summer travel period.

As families plan their holidays and RV owners hit the road, the campaign continues to drive usage, value perception and long-term engagement across the industry.

LEARN MORE about Road to a Million.

A special thanks to the following state associations supporting the Road to a Million campaign: Caravan & Camping Industry Association NSW, Caravan Parks Association of Queensland Ltd (CPAQ), Caravan Industry Association Western Australia, SA Parks, Caravanning Tasmania and Caravanning NT.

If your caravan holiday park already offers accessible cabins, you are part of a growing movement catering to travellers with disabilities. But there is a larger, under-served opportunity – guests with high-needs accessibility requirements.

Accessible Accommodation’s four-tier accreditation system includes a ‘high needs’ category for assisted wheelchair users. The imbalance is striking, about 40 per cent of booking enquiries come from this group, yet only 9 per cent of properties can accommodate them. Bottom line: supply is thin, demand is strong – and rising.

How to become “high-needs ready”

If your existing accessible cabin has at least 1.5 metres of clearance between the bed and the wall, you may be closer than you think. To qualify, each cabin must also include three pieces of specialised equipment:
• A commode (a shower chair on wheels)
• A mobile or ceiling hoist for safe transfers
• An electric hi-lo bed

The upfront investment – typically A$8,000–A$10,000 – tends to pay for itself quickly. High-needs travellers often book longer stays, making these cabins a reliable revenue stream.

Becoming high-needs ready is about more than equipment. It means opening your doors to travellers who have long struggled to find suitable accommodation. The results? A fuller booking calendar, happier guests and the knowledge your park is truly inclusive.

To explore whether your cabins could qualify, contact Kerry Williams at Accessible Accommodation: [email protected].

This content was provided by Accessible Accommodation as part of its partnership with Caravan Industry Association of Australia. It does not reflect the views or opinions of Caravan Industry Association of Australia. References to products, services and claims made in this article should not be viewed as endorsements from Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

Article by IDeaS

It’s no secret data is a critical ingredient for effective decision making across the caravan holiday park sector. Accurate data allows park operators to analyse booking patterns, effectively forecast demand and adjust their pricing strategies to improve revenue outcomes. Additionally, by tracking on-site behaviour, parks can identify areas where guests may experience issues and adjust to improve the overall stay experience.

Data can also be used to optimise operations and improve efficiency. Analysing data for site occupancy and staffing levels enables park operators to adjust their staffing schedules. This ensures they always have the right number of staff on hand, maximising the guest experience while keeping labour costs at efficient and profit-oriented levels.

So, how can you identify which data is relevant for different situations and how can automation help surface insights to support better decisions? This guide will help.

Booking data

Booking data is crucial for future planning, this data allows you to project expected park demand. It is also an essential input for pricing strategies, marketing campaigns and revenue optimisation. Additionally, booking data aids in forecasting future income and expenditures, facilitating accurate budgeting. With a clear view of expected revenue and expenses, you can make informed decisions about capital investments, renovations and other financial commitments.

Long-term forecasting is vital for strategic planning for any holiday park, playing a critical role for owners and investors. This data helps caravan holiday park groups make decisions about new locations, expansions or market contractions.

To create accurate forecasts, you must rely on various data sources, including a property’s booking history, inventory history, future reservations, future inventory and other pertinent data. Additionally, you should incorporate macro-level intelligence such as economic, search and market demand data to help determine how they impact market trends and travel intentions.

Customer data

Customer data comprises of information collected from guests through various touchpoints like booking channels, on-site interactions, feedback forms and social media.

By analysing this data, you can identify patterns in customer behaviour, guest preferences and satisfaction levels, all of which can enable you to personalise or improve services to help enhance guest stays. For instance, if there are frequent complaints about poor bathroom facilities, this feedback can be quantified and used to justify investing in upgraded shower blocks to improve guest satisfaction and increase the likeliness of repeat business.

Operational data

Operational data encompasses information on daily hotel operations, such as room availability, occupancy rates and staff allocations.

By analysing this data, you can make smarter decisions regarding staffing schedules, ensuring an appropriate number of staff are available to meet guest needs.

Overstaffing leads to unnecessary expenses, while understaffing can result in guest dissatisfaction due to long wait times. By effectively integrating operational and forecast data, hotels can enhance the guest experience while keeping labour costs efficient and sustainable.

How revenue management technology helps

The sheer volume of data points available to analyse and action can be overwhelming for park managers. The multitude of decisions required for optimal revenue performance is too complex for any individual to handle without the assistance of automated solutions.

Advanced revenue management systems (RMS) leverage applied mathematical AI and predictive algorithms to calculate optimal pricing and inventory control strategies for holiday parks. These systems enable you to move beyond traditional revenue management processes by fully harnessing data and forecasting capabilities and breaking down data silos. This allows you to explore, predict and optimise total revenue performance.

For more information on how your caravan holiday park can better utilise data to support its business growth, visit: www.ideas.com

This content was provided by IDeaS as part of its partnership with Caravan Industry Association of Australia. It does not reflect the views or opinions of Caravan Industry Association of Australia. References to products, services and claims made in this article should not be viewed as endorsements from Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

Our latest marketing activation gave more than 3 million Australians a taste of the fun, value and connection that only a caravanning and camping holiday can provide.

Coordinated in line with our highly popular Road to a Million promotion, the activation saw Sunrise weather presenter Sam Mac join three families on a three-day motorhome road trip along the stunning NSW South Coast.

Broadcasting live from caravan holiday parks each morning, Sam’s segment reached over 1 million Australians each day – showcasing caravanning and camping as Australia’s best holiday option during the key summer holiday planning window.

“As many Australians continue to face cost-of-living pressures, it was a powerful opportunity to show that camping offers more than just great value – it’s about reconnection with family and community, and the physical and emotional benefits that come from spending time outdoors,” said Keelan Howard, General Manager – Marketing and Communications at Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

Driving industry’s largest promotion

The activation supported the industry’s largest caravan holiday park promotion, Road to a Million, which features nearly 1,300 parks nationwide. Delivered in partnership with select state associations, Road to a Million champions caravan holiday parks and celebrates the unique experiences they provide to millions of Australians each year.

If the first month of this year’s campaign is anything to go by, it’s shaping up to be an incredible summer for the parks sector. More than 128,000 nights have already been registered through the campaign’s consumer competition, giving over 25,000 travellers an entry into the draw for the chance to win $1 million – simply by staying at participating parks.

“The level of engagement we’ve seen so far is remarkable,” said Keelan. “It reflects the appeal of caravanning as an affordable, rewarding and distinctly Australian way to holiday.

“We look forward to seeing this momentum continue to build over the summer holiday period, as Road to a Million attracts even more families and travellers to experience the fun, freedom and connection that only a caravan or camping holiday can provide.”

Invitation to participate

Caravan holiday parks that are members of their state association are invited to take part in the Road to a Million campaign, free of charge.

For more information, contact our marketing team at [email protected] or visit the Road to a Million website

A special thanks to the following state associations supporting the Road to a Million campaign: Caravan & Camping Industry Association NSW, Caravan Parks Association of Queensland Ltd (CPAQ), Caravan Industry Association Western Australia, SA Parks, Caravanning Tasmania and Caravanning NT.

Erin Stevenson has propelled Newbook’s growth from tech start-up to leading hospitality platform.

Combining hands-on experience with a sharp eye for operational strategy, Erin is helping caravan holiday parks streamline their digital operations and deliver exceptional guest experiences.

In this edition of our Future Leaders series, Erin unpacks shifting consumer expectations, the push for digital transformation and why leadership development is fundamental to the industry’s future.

Can you start by telling us about your current role and your professional background?

Erin Stevenson (ES): My journey in the tourism and hospitality industry began at my parents’ resort, where I developed a deep passion for delivering exceptional experiences.

This foundation led me to join Newbook, a small technology start-up, 11 years ago as one of the company’s first product trainers. With no existing training program or processes in place, I took the initiative to build frameworks that supported both the business and its clients.

Recognising the need for operational development, I transitioned into the role of Chief Operating Officer, where I have focused on scaling up the business. Over the past 11 years, I have led and expanded the business’ operations, ensuring efficiency, client satisfaction and sustainable growth. This has helped position the company for long-term success, including two acquisitions.

Through innovation, strategic execution and a relentless focus on customer success, Newbook has transitioned from a start-up into an industry-leading hospitality management platform – a journey I’m very proud to be part of.

Based on this experience, what do you see as the biggest challenges facing the caravan holiday parks sector, and what solutions do you propose?

ES: The expectations of today’s travellers are vastly different from those of even two years ago, yet many businesses fail to recognise and adapt to this shift. It’s crucial for caravan holiday park operators to understand guest data, respond to changing demands and evolve their service offerings. Travellers now expect personalised, experience-driven stays with high-quality amenities and seamless digital interactions. To stay competitive, parks must invest in infrastructure, sustainability and guest-centric technology. Industry collaboration and knowledge-sharing will also be key to staying ahead of trends.

Rising expenses – including wages and compliance – combined with staff shortages, make operational sustainability challenging. Many businesses rely on seasonal staff, which highlights the need for stronger training, retention and career development strategies. Smarter workforce management, cross-training programs and partnerships with educational institutions will ensure a skilled talent pipeline. Cost-saving measures such as bulk purchasing agreements and sustainability initiatives can also help operators remain profitable while maintaining high service standards.

Finally, many operators struggle with adopting new technologies due to resource constraints or resistance to change. Industry-wide education, training and support are essential to accelerate digital adoption. By offering practical tools and demonstrating the long-term benefits of technology, businesses can enhance efficiency, improve guest experiences and future-proof their operations.

With this in mind, how do you see the caravan holiday park sector evolving over the next five years, and what role do you hope to play in shaping its successful future?

ES: In five years, I see myself as a leader in the continued transformation of our industry and its technology. I aim to be at the forefront of strategic leadership, helping shape industry standards and driving change in how businesses operate and connect with guests.

Beyond business growth, I want to mentor and develop future leaders, fostering a strong culture of accountability, operational excellence and customer-centric strategies. When I started out, there were few resources to help shape my career or guide me through the industry’s potential. That’s why I want to create pathways for young people, giving them access to the support, education and opportunities I wish I’d had.

What do you see as the keys to this leadership development work?

ES: I believe there’s a real opportunity to make the industry more accessible through initiatives like open learning forums, mentorship programs and broader industry engagement. By encouraging collaboration, professional development and confidence-building, I want to help young professionals see the sector as more than just a job – it’s a dynamic, exciting and rewarding long-term career with real opportunities to make an impact.

My goal is to help shape an industry culture that supports growth, innovation and the success of the next generation.

Each year, more than 4,400 workers aged between 15 and 24 are seriously injured at work, often within the first six months of starting a new job.

You may be considering employing, or already employ, a young person in your park or workshop in a role that involves significant manual handling or the use of machinery.

It is a common misconception that managing young worker safety is the same as managing other groups of workers. Young workers have a distinct risk profile and understanding this is the responsibility of everyone – from frontline supervisors to company directors.

The first step is to understand why young workers face unique risks.

Most young people, particularly those fresh out of school, have little or no work experience and limited interaction with adults in a professional setting. They learn by watching others, which means those who supervise them must set the right example.

Are young workers in your workplace encouraged to ask questions? Do supervisors use the ‘tell me, show me, watch me’ approach? How do young workers know what to prioritise when faced with multiple tasks?

Young workers are injured at higher rates than older colleagues in many industries and feature prominently in workers’ compensation claims. They are particularly vulnerable to injuries arising from:

• Operating machinery
• Using hand tools and knives
• Manual handling
• Contact with electricity
• Working on or around vehicles and quad bikes
• Working at heights
• Workplace violence or bullying

More information

WorkSafe QLD has produced a practical guide to help workplaces discuss young worker safety and engage young employees effectively. See the Young Workers Safety Toolkit for more details.

Alterations and Cancellations

Any alterations and cancellations must be received by email to [email protected].

Substitutions are welcome at no additional cost. However, Caravan Industry Association of Australia must be notified of any substitutions prior to the event by email: [email protected].

Refunds Policy: Change of Mind 

• A full refund of conference delegate registration will be made if notification is received more than 6 weeks prior to commencement of the event. 
• 6 weeks prior to commencement of the event– 75% refund or full credit for 2027.
• 4 weeks prior to commencement of the event– 50% refund or full credit for 2027.
• 2 weeks prior to commencement of the event– 25% refund or full credit for 2027.
• Less than 2 weeks prior to the commencement of the event – no refund, or full credit for 2027.
• No refunds for Friday Frenzy/Cyber Monday Special.

Refunds Policy: COVID-19

• Relating only to any delegate fee paid to Caravan Industry Association of Australia in association with the 2026 National Conference – additional costs such as flights and accommodation etc are the full responsibility of the delegate. 
• Should the conference be cancelled or postponed – full refund or full credit for 2027.
• Delegate is unable to travel to the event due to a COVID health directive relating to a border closure or restrictions requiring a quarantine period – full refund or full credit for 2027 if you are unable to substitute your registration.

Recording and Image Waiver 

Caravan Industry Association of Australia reserves the right to broadcast and transmit recorded content via TV, internet, and any other means of distribution. Caravan Industry Association of Australia also reserves the right to capture photographic images during the event and use them for promotional purposes. By entering the venue, you agree to be filmed, photographed, and recorded. You also agree that all material captured by Caravan Industry Association of Australia may be used by Caravan Industry Association of Australia and its partners for promotional purposes, worldwide.

Delegate Payments and Invoices

Any outstanding amounts must be paid before the event commences. Delegates with an unpaid balance will not be admitted to the event. Invoices are inclusive of 10% GST.

Privacy Policy

• Please find our privacy policy at https://www.caravanindustry.com.au/privacy-policy
• Your registration data such as full name, job title, company/organisation, industry sector, and email will be shared with our exhibitors. If you wish for your job title, industry sector, and email not to be shared with the exhibitors you can opt-out by emailing: [email protected]
• If you are attending the Caravan Parks Association of Queensland (CPAQ) Conference and/or CPAQ Awards Dinner, your registration information will be shared with CPAQ.
• If you are attending a Masterclass, your registration information will be shared with the organiser of that Masterclass (e.g. RMS, Dometic, etc) and can be used for marketing purposes.
• If you claim a discount/subsidy we will share your registration details with the relevant organisation to verify your entitlement. If your entitlement is disputed, we will void the discount and charge the difference to your credit card.
• You are required to adhere to all federal and state regulations that are applicable at the time of the event as well as any regulations set by the venue.

Further enquiries can be sent to [email protected]

Stephen Edwards leads the Edwards Group, the family-owned business behind Echo Holiday Parks, one of South Australia’s fastest-growing caravan holiday park networks.

With a deep commitment to regional communities, innovation and sustainability, Stephen shares insights into what drives the business, how it’s adapting to industry challenges and what makes Echo Holiday Parks a popular year-round choice for travellers.

Can you start by telling us a little bit about your caravan holiday parks?

Stephen Edwards (SE): Echo Holiday Parks is the newest holiday park group in South Australia. With parks across the state, we cater to a broad demographic, as each park offers a unique sense of place. Some parks appeal to families with fun facilities like mini-golf, waterparks, pools and playgrounds. Others cater more to couples, offering a quieter, more traditional experience.

We offer a wide range of cabins and sites, meeting the diverse needs of our guests, from budget-friendly ensuites and standard two-bedroom cabins to luxury three-bedroom, two-bathroom accommodation. We’ll soon be launching studios designed specifically for the worker market, as demand is growing across regional South Australia.

How long have you been involved with Echo Holiday Parks, and what’s the most rewarding part of your job?

SE: Echo Holiday Parks is part of the Edwards Group, a family business I’m proud to have grown up in. I’ve served as CEO of Edwards Group for the past 11 years.

Along the way, I’ve enjoyed watching the difference we’ve been able to make. It’s rewarding to see our people grow as the business grows and to see the positive impact our parks have on regional communities. When our parks are busy, the local cafes, wineries and shops are busy too. Knowing our success directly contributes to thriving regional towns is something I take great pride in.

What are the biggest challenges facing caravan holiday park operators today and how are you tackling them?

SE: Like many in the industry, we’ve faced challenges in several areas, but we’re starting to see positive results from the actions we’ve taken.

Attracting and retaining skilled staff in regional South Australia remains a focus. We’re creating career pathways within Echo Holiday Parks to help our team build long-term careers, while also supporting industry initiatives like the TICSA Careers in Tourism Guide to widen the talent pool.

With cost-of-living pressures shortening guest stays and operating costs rising, we’ve introduced dynamic pricing to maximise yield in peak periods and boost occupancy during quieter times. We’ve also tightened cost control and renegotiated with suppliers to maintain healthy margins.

As international travel becomes more affordable, we’re showcasing the unique blend of nature, community and regional experiences our parks offer, reminding travellers of everything that’s great about South Australia.

Building on that, can you tell us about any innovative services or experiences you offer to enhance the guest experience?

SE: In-park events have been a great way to innovate our offering and enhance the guest experience, while also boosting occupancy during quieter periods.

One standout is the Riverland Camp Oven Festival at Echo Holiday Parks – Renmark. This two-night event brings guests together around the campfire for an evening of socialising before competing for the best camp oven dishes the next day. With prizes, entertainment and a festival atmosphere, it’s an annual sell-out. It fills our cabins and sites in the middle of winter—a usually quiet period—and drives repeat stays.

How is technology changing the way you manage your parks?

SE: Technology is helping our parks operate more efficiently. As guests increasingly prefer digital engagement, marketing technologies are a key focus.

We’re building a strong digital presence to drive brand awareness, bookings and a better guest experience.

AI and automation are helping us meet expectations around availability and response times.

CRM integration with our property management system allows us to better understand our guests and create campaigns tailored to their interests.

SEO and AEO help ensure we’re represented across search engines and AI-powered platforms, making it easier for guests to find and choose Echo Holiday Parks.

How do you manage seasonal fluctuations in bookings?

SE: Seasonality has always been a challenge in our industry, but it really shouldn’t be. Every season offers its own unique experience and travellers should be inspired to explore during all of them. The challenge is changing longstanding behaviours.

By showcasing seasonal experiences, hosting in-park events and collaborating with local communities to leverage regional festivals and attractions, we’re creating more reasons to travel year-round.

The key is creating experiences that genuinely inspire travel, while balancing the costs with the returns needed to keep our parks thriving year-round.

What steps are you taking to make your parks more sustainable?

SE: Sustainability sits at the heart of our long-term vision for Echo Holiday Parks. We’re committed to reducing our environmental footprint and delivering stays our guests can feel good about.

One of our goals is to have all our parks powered by 100 per cent renewable energy by 2033, generated entirely in-house. To achieve this, we’re working with Powertech Energy, investing in solar infrastructure, battery storage and energy-efficient technologies to reduce consumption and waste. It’s a substantial commitment, but one we believe is essential for the environment, our guests and the long-term resilience of our business.

Your parks are accredited through the Caravan Holiday Parks Accreditation Program. What value does this bring to your business and your guests?

SE: Accreditation offers value for both our guests and our business. It is a mark of quality and consistency, instilling confidence with guests that they’re booking a park that meets industry standards and delivers a reliable, enjoyable experience every time.

For us, it provides an opportunity to review operations against a benchmark outside of our own standards and identify areas in which we could implement a different approach.

We’re thrilled to announce our Million Dollar Road Trip NT campaign has been shortlisted for a Brolga Northern Territory Tourism Award – the Territory’s most prestigious tourism accolade. 

This news follows the campaign’s recent recognition as a finalist in the Mumbrella Awards, cementing its status as one of the country’s most effective and engaging tourism marketing initiatives. 

Delivered in collaboration with Tourism NT, Tourism Top End, Tourism Central Australia and Caravanning NT, the campaign celebrated what makes a caravanning and camping trip through the Northern Territory so special – unforgettable landscapes, rich culture and unmatched hospitality. 

Driving results for regional Australia 

The campaign was powered by a national consumer competition, involving over 460 caravan holiday parks and tourism businesses across the territory.  

Visitors were rewarded for staying in commercial camping accommodation, checking out attractions and stopping by official visitor centres – all the while collecting entries toward a grand prize draw, with the chance to win $1 million up for grabs.  

Running from May to September 2024, the competition had over 55,900 entries linked to more than 53,000 nights of booked accommodation – a huge win for local tourism. 

Marketing designed to go the distance 

The campaign wasn’t just about promoting the Northern Territory, it also created ‘campers for life’ through compelling storytelling, clever incentives and tapping into the adventurous spirit of Australians. 

“The Million Dollar Road Trip NT campaign was designed to deliver real, lasting impact,” said Keelan Howard, General Manager of Marketing and Communications at Caravan Industry Association of Australia. 

“Not only did it help boost the visitor economy across key regional areas, it showed how powerful experience-led, collaborative marketing can be when it comes to inspiring travellers and growing the caravanning and camping sector.” 

Rightful recognition 

With a 7,500-word nomination submitted for the Brolga Awards, the judging panel praised the campaign’s alignment with the awards program’s goal of celebrating excellence and achievement across the Northern Territory’s visitor economy. 

“Being shortlisted for a Brolga Award is a proud moment for everyone involved; from the national marketing team to regional tourism operators and park owners who brought the campaign to life on the ground,” said Howard.  

“Campaigns like this show what’s possible when the industry comes together with a shared goal – to deliver amazing visitor experiences and showcase the magic of road travel across Australia.” 

Members of our marketing team will travel to Darwin for the Brolga Awards Dinner on 8 November. 

A heartfelt thank you to Tourism NT, Tourism Top End, Tourism Central Australia, Caravanning NT, the Northern Territory Government and every partner who contributed to the campaign’s success. 

Is your caravan holiday park missing out on that next booking, or the chance to re-engage past guests? Our Road to a Million campaign is here to help.

With the campaign’s consumer competition launching on 1 October, travellers can now enter the draw for a chance to win $1 million simply by staying at participating parks.

The campaign is supported by a high-impact national marketing program, including a hero activation with the Seven Network’s Sunrise program.

The best part? Joining the campaign won’t cost you a thing!

Here’s what you need to know.

Marketing packs

To support your park’s involvement in Road to a Million, we’ve prepared a variety of ready-to-use print and digital assets.

• Printed packs are on the way to registered parks — POS packs have been sent to all registered parks.
• The digital pack is ready to use — it’s full of resources to promote your park Access here >>

If you have a marketing person or agency, we encourage you to share these assets with them to maximise your reach and impact.

Webinar

Need some help with your marketing? Watch this free marketing webinar, prepared in collaboration with Caravan Parks Association of Queensland, which shows how you can:

• Boost bookings, extend guest stays and add extra value through the campaign.
• Promote effectively using social media and triggered correspondence.
• Get your whole team engaged for maximum success.
• Explore creative, outside-the-box ideas with examples from leading parks.

Watch the webinar >>

Top tips

• Use the provided counter cards and printed materials to boost the onsite experience. These materials, including assets in the digital pack, are designed to entice guests, offering free entry to the campaign as an incentive.
• Reach out to existing/past guests through email/social media and invite them back. This is an excellent opportunity to re-engage with your customer base.
• Integrate this campaign into your existing marketing and sales activities. The digital pack has detailed instructions on maximising this opportunity, aiding in the integration of this initiative into your current marketing plans.  a variety of ready-to-use assets

Get involved

Caravan holiday parks that are members of their state associations are invited to participate in the Road to a Million campaign. For more information, contact Caravan Industry Association of Australia’s Marketing Team, [email protected], or get in touch with your state association. 

A special thanks to the state associations supporting this national consumer campaign: Caravan & Camping Industry Association NSW, Caravan Parks Association of Queensland Ltd (CPAQ), Caravan Industry Association Western Australia, SA Parks, Caravanning Tasmania and Caravanning NT.

Road to a Million website >>

Caravan holiday park operators from across the country raised a range of challenges and frustrations hindering development and profitability at the inaugural National Caravan Industry Summit.

Convened by Caravan Industry Association of Australia and held at Parliament House in Canberra on 22–23 September, the event brought together independent park operators, corporates and industry representatives to provide specific examples to long-time industry supporter, Senator Helen Polley. These discussions will help inform her efforts in Parliament to drive policy progress and support a strong future for the caravanning and camping sector.

Discussions at the summit focused on four key areas:

Labour mobility

One of the main areas identified for potential “early” government action was visa system reform. Attendees discussed the need for easier and improved access to working holidaymakers, including longer-term stays by removing or redefining postcode allocation requirements. A government briefing is currently being drafted on this issue.

Infrastructure grants

Round 2 of the Caravan Park Infrastructure Grants Program was also raised. The government recognises the value of these grants and is actively exploring opportunities for a second round. During the summit, the first round of grants was acknowledged for delivering exponential value to both parks and their broader communities – from increased productivity and economic contribution to enhanced customer experience.

Planning processes

Operators raised concerns around the slow and complex planning approvals process – a challenge affecting multiple sectors. The lack of efficiency in these processes is not only delaying investment but also preventing parks from upgrading and expanding their offerings.

Electrification opportunities

Similarly, park operators said the path to electrification is being impeded by a lack of strategic government planning, high installation costs and intrusive local government regulations.

Collective voice

The session also included updates from Tourism Australia and Tourism Research Australia, reinforcing the vital role caravan holiday parks play in the broader tourism landscape.

As the convener of the inaugural National Caravan Industry Summit, Caravan Industry Association of Australia ensured the collective voice of the industry was heard – with a focus on delivering practical, achievable outcomes.

“The biggest success of the summit was seeing every facet of the industry come together in a constructive, practical and pragmatic way,” said Stuart Lamont, CEO of Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

“Everyone had a real intent on ensuring the industry took a step towards a unified and collaborate future, which signals great things for ‘Brand Caravan’ and the broader quality customer experience across the industry.”

The inaugural National Caravan Industry Summit brought together dealers, repairers, manufacturers, importers and suppliers from across the country for sector-specific discussions on boosting industry profitability.

Convened by Caravan Industry Association of Australia and held at Parliament House in Canberra on 22-23 September, the summit provided long-time industry supporter, Senator Helen Polley, with valuable firsthand insights into the challenges and frustrations faced by trade businesses. These discussions will help inform her efforts in Parliament to drive policy progress and ensure a strong future for the caravanning and camping sector.

Dealers and Repairers

A practical and pragmatic discussion was held by caravan and RV dealers and repairers. Key topics included:

• Warranty concerns – including access to spare parts, labour rates, and approval delays
• Indemnification under Australian Consumer Law (ACL)
• National harmonisation of electrical and gas licensing – particularly around interpretation and enforcement

Despite the heavy subject matter, one overwhelming point shone through – care for the customer is paramount. Industry leaders emphasised the need to maintain the strength of ‘Brand Caravan’, ensuring high standards and positive customer outcomes across the sector.

The session included a discussion with Dr Daniel Mulino, the Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services. This conversation centred on ACL, particularly around indemnification challenges and the need for clearer definitions. There was also a proposal to explore the reclassification of caravans under ACL – moving away from the standard consumer goods framework due to their complexity.

Scott Buchholz, Shadow Minister for Training and Skills and co-chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Caravanning group, was also involved in the session, engaging in conversations around skills development and workforce challenges.

One potential solution to some of the challenges raised is a government-supported industry code with tribunal-like powers – this will be a watching brief for further analysis.

Manufacturers, Importers and Suppliers

Like their dealer and repairer colleagues, manufacturers, importers and suppliers remained focused on upholding the strength of ‘Brand Caravan’ and delivering quality customer service throughout their session.

The session commenced with a presentation from Austrade, outlining current export and import dynamics and highlighting potential grant opportunities for manufacturers looking to expand into international markets.

Key topics covered during the session included:

• Indemnification under ACL and obligations of suppliers and manufacturers (education)
• Lack of data from the Register of Approved Vehicles (RAV)
• Lack of trained service technicians
• Clarification of terms under ACL – major and minor failure
• Increased compliance and enforcement by the Federal Department 

The session was practical, pragmatic and passionate, reflecting participants’ love for the industry and a shared desire to shape a stronger, more sustainable future – it’s now a matter of mapping the pathway to get there.

Key points raised included the need for:

• Stronger compliance auditing by the Federal Department
• Improved transparency and communication from the Federal Department around non-compliant manufacturers
• Greater scrutiny of gas and electrical installations, particularly those completed through overseas processes

Each of these issues will undergo further mapping and analysis for positioning with both industry and government.

As the convener of the inaugural National Caravan Industry Summit, Caravan Industry Association of Australia ensured the collective voice of the industry was heard – with a focus on delivering practical, achievable outcomes.

Australian Design Rule (ADR) 109/00 – Electric Power Train Requirements comes into force on 1 November 2025.

This new rule applies to vehicles fitted with electric power trains, including electric and hybrid vehicles.

The Federal Department is providing a streamlined approvals process for vehicles that do not have this feature.

If your approval only covers variants that are solely powered by an internal combustion engine (ICE), then you don’t need to vary it before ADR 109/00 comes into effect. However, there are some small steps you must take.

What you need to do

In order to access this pathway, you must:

1. Email [email protected]
2. Include a list of vehicle type approval numbers that:
   • Do not cover any variants fitted with an electric power train
   • Do not include a rechargeable electrical energy storage system

It is strongly recommended that you submit this information as soon as possible. This will allow the ROVER assessment team to verify your approvals and ensure they are not incorrectly flagged as non-compliant after 1 November 2025, when non-compliant approvals will be automatically suspended.

If no email notification is provided, your approval will be subject to the usual Road Vehicle Standards (RVS) processes, whereby there is an automatic suspension of any approval that has not had a variation made via ROVER to provide the compliance status in respect of the new ADR.

If you later apply to vary an approval, ROVER will prompt you to confirm compliance with ADR 109/00. For approvals only covering ICE variants, you should select the ‘ADR Exemption’ option.

Important

You must apply to vary approvals that cover both electric and ICE variants to provide compliance information for ADR 109/00. Do not include them in your list of exempt approvals.

For further assistance, visit the Federal Department’s dedicated RVSA Contact Us page.

A couple of clicks were all it took for Avida Ballarat to unlock a high-quality sales lead through the RVMAP Dealer Leads Program.

The Victorian business has become the first dealership to secure a sale through the new initiative, closing on an Avida Birdsville just days after receiving a high-intent lead from Avida Motorhomes & Caravans’ head office – a lead generated via the program’s RV Finder service.

Richard Ford, Manager of Avida Ballarat, said the process was highly efficient and effective.

“We simply clicked a link provided by Avida, who had told us about this new program, and we were able to contact with the customer,” Ford said. “We had their email address and sent them all the relevant information based on what we knew they were looking for.

“From there, we followed up, arranged an appointment, and the customer drove down and purchased the motorhome on the day.”

RVMAP manufacturer leads the way

As a proud RVMAP-licensed business, Avida Motorhomes & Caravans sees the Dealer Leads Program as a breakthrough in connecting motivated RV consumers with its national dealer network.

The business receives real-time notifications as potential buyers register through RV Finder. Leads are allocated to participating RVMAP manufacturers based on established criteria to maximise relevance and sales opportunity. Avida then assigns leads to the most appropriate dealer.

A user-friendly virtual hub gives Avida Motorhomes & Caravans oversight of all verified leads, with tools to monitor engagement, receive direct dealer feedback and refine lead strategies over time.

Avida Motorhomes & Caravans recognised the program’s potential from the outset.

“The program not only aligns with our goals of reaching engaged, experience-seeking consumers, but it also delivers qualified leads from individuals who have demonstrated genuine interest in our motorhomes. This ensures our dealer network is receiving high-quality opportunities, helping us connect with customers who are ready to take the next step in their journey.”

– Billy Falconer, Sales and Marketing Manager at Avida Motorhomes & Caravans

National marketing support

The program’s rollout has been supported by a comprehensive national consumer marketing campaign, including digital advertising, new national TV content, and direct communications to more than 500,000 email subscribers and 260,000 social media followers.

The content is designed to target engaged audiences with purchasing intent, while also introducing new consumers to the RV lifestyle.

“This national exposure not only raises awareness of the comfort and convenience of our products, but also appeals to a wider audience, including first-time travellers and families wanting to enjoy the freedom of traveling on the road,” Falconer said.

“As a result, we anticipate increased consumer engagement – including higher website traffic, more qualified leads and stronger sales performance.”

The road ahead

For dealers like Avida Ballarat, the program will continue to drive visibility while enhancing the overall customer experience.

“Looking ahead, the biggest benefits of the program for our dealership include increased exposure to motivated buyers, higher-quality leads and a more streamlined sales process,” Ford said.

“For prospective customers, the program provides easier access to accurate stock information and a smoother path from inquiry to purchase – helping them make confident decisions quickly.”

The RVMAP Dealer Leads Program is open to all RVMAP-accredited businesses and their dealer networks. This initiative helps link motivated consumers with trusted manufacturers and dealerships, driving stronger outcomes, reinforcing product credibility and amplifying the value of RVMAP accreditation. RVMAP businesses must REGISTER to participate. LEARN MORE about RVMAP accreditation.

From a background in aircraft engineering to leading a family-run, customer-focused RV dealership, Jack Hillis brings a fresh perspective to the caravan and camping industry.

In this instalment of our Future Leaders series, Jack discusses key challenges around the consumer experience, the rise of a new generation of industry leaders, and his vision to create “stable and rewarding” career pathways.

Can you start by telling us about your current role and your professional background?

Jack Hillis (JH): I was born and raised in Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, where I completed HSC before starting and an apprenticeship as an aircraft maintenance engineer. After working in that industry for ten years, my wife and I decided to move from Darwin back to Wagga Wagga in 2017 to join the family business, Wagga Caravan Centre.

Initially, I planned to learn the ropes of running a dealership from my father, who had 40 years’ experience in the motor industry. However, just five months in, he had to medically retire, so I took on the responsibility of running the business.

I began implementing some of the processes and policies I’d learned in aircraft engineering into the dealership’s operations, particularly within our growing service department. I knew that delivering high-quality service was key to building a strong and loyal customer base – if we could fix their caravans, and do it well, there was a strong chance they’d return to buy their next one from us.

Since 2017, I’ve grown the business from eight staff to more than 20 and introduced market-leading processes in customer service, warranty and sales – particularly in the high-end off-road caravan segment.

Based on this experience, what do you see as the biggest challenges facing the caravan industry, and what solutions do you propose?

JH: I see the caravan ownership experience as one of the biggest challenges facing the industry. Since the Covid-19 pandemic, the number of caravans on the road has surged but the industry’s ability to support these customers post-sale hasn’t kept pace. As a result, many customers are left to deal with warranty issues and manufacturer defects on their own, leading to frustration and a poor ownership experience.

When customers aren’t enjoying their caravans, they’re less likely to travel, stay in caravan holiday parks or recommend caravanning to others. Delays in warranty response times, inadequate dealership processes, poor communication and long wait times for reputable dealers to receive manufacturer support all contribute to this problem.

How do we fix this? I’m a strong advocate for introducing industry guidelines on standard repair times for warranty repairs. This would set clear expectations and help reduce delays that frustrate customers and dealers alike.

I also believe dealers should be required to hold minimum stock levels of warranty parts. This would ensure faster turnaround times and better support for customers post-sale.

These steps would help ensure a consistent, high-quality experience for all caravan owners.

In line with this response, what core values underpin the way you conduct business?

JH: My focus isn’t on being the biggest caravan dealership in the country, but the most reputable. I want to be known for the best customer service, repair processes and warranty support – so we not only meet but exceed our customers’ expectations.

After attending the Future Leaders Conference last year in Canberra, my ambitions expanded beyond my own dealership. I now want to contribute to the industry at a national level – sharing my ideas and expertise and working alongside other business leaders to help make the caravan sector one of the most reputable industries in the country.

Interesting. Can you elaborate on how you plan to play a role in shaping the future success of the industry?

JH: I see myself as part of a new generation of industry leaders – one that brings passion and a strong work ethic to push for meaningful change. I want to help make caravanning better for everyone – from industry businesses to happy travellers.

As I’ve said, the customer experience must be a priority. I want to help lead the improvements needed to make that a reality, not just a goal. This includes encouraging other emerging leaders to help take the industry forward. I also want to work with others in the industry to create stable, rewarding career paths. From sales and customer service to repairs and manufacturing, the caravan industry offers a wide range of exciting career opportunities. I want to help promote these opportunities and ensure the industry is front of mind for those looking to build a meaningful and dynamic career.

Our Future Leaders series shines a spotlight on the rising professionals whose passion, innovation, and dedication are shaping the future of our industry. Keep an eye out – more inspiring conversations with future leaders are on the way.

Article by DLL

In the booming RV market, why are so many dealers still held back by outdated financing models?

The market is built on a bold vision – delivering the freedom of the open road through quality vehicles. From innovative camper trailers to luxury motorhomes, the industry has seen remarkable growth. But even in a thriving sector, businesses face a familiar challenge: how to maintain agility, manage inventory and fuel expansion in a dynamic and capital-intensive market.

It’s time to rethink financing to unlock new opportunities.

Strategic partnerships drive real growth

The answer lies in strategic partnerships, not just transaction-based lending. Too often, manufacturers and dealers in the RV space rely on rigid, one-size-fits-all financing that can tie up valuable capital and limit their ability to adapt. This approach can restrict cash flow and hinder growth when market conditions shift.

A more effective long-term solution involves embracing a true strategic collaboration. This means finding a finance partner who deeply understands the unique dynamics of the RV sector, from seasonal demand to dealer networks and supply chain complexities. This type of partnership ensures that every dollar invested delivers stronger returns, particularly in periods of change.

Real-world impact: Jayco’s story

RV dealers are often held back by financial constraints, struggling to stay agile, manage inventory and plan for growth. One way to overcome these challenges is by aligning financing with real operational needs and long-term goals.

For example, a partnership with a market leader like Jayco shows how crucial liquidity can be to staying competitive and responsive in a fast-moving market. By providing comprehensive wholesale financing solutions, a strategic partner like DLL ensures a seamless transition and empowers dealers to maintain diverse, well-stocked inventory without tying up their own capital.

“We’re all about relationships … we call them partners because we’ve got to work together in order to grow our business.”

– Scott Jones, Sales Innovation Manager at Jayco.

Tailored solutions for unique business models

When it comes to a financing partner, specificity is essential. What one business needs to grow may be entirely different for the next. Financing solutions should be crafted with clear business models in mind, factoring in a company’s operational needs and growth objectives. The factors influencing a high-volume manufacturer differ markedly from those driving a dealer with ambitious plans for expansion. A solution built on mutual trust and shared insights may appeal more to a business focused on long-term growth.

It’s important to recognise that success isn’t just about the product; it’s about having the right financial support.

Rather than just providing a credit line, a financing partner can add value in ways that resonate with the industry. Regular strategic reviews, custom program development and shared market insights can all enhance a company’s appeal without damaging its growth trajectory.

“We can’t do it without finance. And DLL is very flexible and can see our needs, and work with us to fulfill our dreams.”

– Gerry Ryan, Owner and Founder of Jayco.

What to look for in a strategic finance partner

Beyond meeting immediate financing needs, the right partner can help RV businesses plan long-term success. A collaborative model offers more than capital – it brings insight, flexibility and operational support. Here’s what to look for:

• Agility in inventory planning: Flexible financing solutions that align with seasonal demand and product cycles.
• Operational efficiency: Streamlined processes and systems that reduce overhead and improve cash flow management.
• Advanced forecasting tools: Data-driven insights to help anticipate business levels and make smarter resourcing decisions.
• Support for market expansion: Strategic guidance and funding options to explore new regions or product lines confidently.

Partnering with a finance provider who understands the RV industry can unlock growth, improve agility and strengthen your bottom line.

Ready to grow smarter?

RV manufacturers and dealers preparing for expansion or navigating softer market conditions must adopt a smarter approach to financing. Businesses that closely monitor industry patterns, build accurate forecasts and develop tailored financing solutions will be best positioned to succeed when demand is high and ambitions are great.

If you’re looking for a financing partner who understands the RV industry and can help you achieve your growth ambitions, reach out to DLL today.

Finance is provided by De Lage Landen Pty Limited (ABN 20 101 692 040) (DLL). Equipment to be used for business purposes only. Subject to DLL’s standard credit criteria, fees and terms and conditions apply.

This content was provided by DLL as part of its partnership with Caravan Industry Association of Australia. It does not reflect the views or opinions of Caravan Industry Association of Australia. References to products, services and claims made in this article should not be viewed as endorsements from Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

Article by Carbonhalo

Australia’s mandatory climate reporting requirements are fast approaching, and the smartest caravan industry businesses aren’t waiting to become compliant.

Many industry businesses are already locking in multi-year compliance pathway programs – here’s why you should too.

The rush is coming

Group 2 businesses (revenue >$200M, assets >$500M, employees >250) must comply with the requirements by July 2026.
Group 3 businesses (revenue >$50M, assets >$25M, employees >100) must comply with the requirements by July 2027.

Many established caravan manufacturers, major dealers and tourism operators fall into these categories. The clock is ticking.

Five common challenges you need to address

Organisations new to climate-related reporting legislation typically face five challenges, which create a high likelihood of compliance risk:

1. Time constraints – Staff lack resources for regulatory compliance.
2. Knowledge gaps – Limited understanding of reporting requirements.
3. Data difficulties – Challenges in collecting and organizing required information.
4. Reporting complexity – Inability to prepare compliant reports.
5. Lack of expert support – Missing independent, trusted advisors.

Combined with these challenges, businesses have tight budgets and don’t have a lot to spare for additional compliance activities.

Three advantages to moving early

Forward-thinking industry stakeholders are investing in multi-year pathway programs because they understand three critical advantages:

Avoiding high compliance costs

• No new hires to navigate requirements, when the time comes.
• 50%+ cost savings vs last-minute market rates for similar services.

Gradual progress, not a big bang

• Compliance requirements are gradually developed over a 2-3 year period, which makes managing the process much easier.

Beat the service provider rush

• As deadlines approach, quality providers will be booked solid.
• Businesses don’t want to be left with solutions that don’t suit their budget or resources.

How pathway programs work

Pathway programs, such as those offered by Carbonhalo, are about practical progress towards compliance, spread over the time remaining before compliance deadlines. Here’s an outline of what a three-year program might look like:

Year 1: Build your foundation

• Understand key data requirements for emission calculations.
• Receive preliminary calculation of legislatively required emissions.
• Undertake climate-related disclosure gap assessments and develop action plans.
• Key staff awareness and education of the requirements.

Years 2 & 3: Achieve full compliance

• Audit-ready emissions calculations and reports developed.
• Finalize all required disclosures.
• Complete audit-ready sustainability report.
• Director and auditor review preparation.
• Submit to ASIC with confidence.

Done-for-you service model

Many businesses new to emissions reporting are not overly motivated to tackle this task and are driven mostly by compliance. Therefore, they seek guidance and support, plus a little “push along”. This means programs designed to “do it yourself” do not fit their needs.

Under its pathway programs, Carbonhalo has developed an approach that suits businesses new to climate reporting. This includes:

• Project management – The entire process runs under a project plan.
• Expert workshops – Real human guidance, not just tools.
• Professional reporting – Audit-ready outputs prepared for you.
• Year-round support – Ongoing advice and problem-solving.
• Easy-to-use platform – No complex integrations required.

Carbonhalo has partnered with Caravan Industry Association of Australia to provide industry stakeholders with accessible climate compliance solutions.

Free consultations are available. For more information:

Daniela Ruiz, Sustainability Manager
Email: [email protected]
Website: carbonhalo.com

This content was provided by Carbonhalo as part of its partnership with Caravan Industry Association of Australia. It does not reflect the views or opinions of Caravan Industry Association of Australia. References to products, services and claims made in this article should not be viewed as endorsements from Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

We speak to Geoff Illich, Manager of Brisbane Holiday Village – a long-established, family-owned caravan holiday park in Queensland’s capital.

Geoff shares insights into the park’s evolution over the past 30 years, the challenges and innovations shaping the industry today, and how his team continues to deliver outstanding guest experiences while embracing sustainability and technology.

Can you start by telling us a little bit about your caravan holiday park?

Geoff Illich (GI): Brisbane Holiday Village is a family-owned caravan holiday park located in Eight Mile Plains, Queensland.

We offer a wide range of accommodation options, including powered and unpowered caravan and camping sites, ensuite caravan sites, modern self-contained cabins, and a range of short- and long-term accommodation. Our guests range from families on holiday and retirees seeking a peaceful stay, to business travellers, sporting groups and international visitors.

Over the years, we’ve invested in upgrading our facilities to make every stay enjoyable. This includes recently refurbished amenity blocks, high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the park, swimming pools, playgrounds, mini golf and recreational areas.

We’re proud to provide a welcoming, safe and fun environment where guests can relax, unwind and make lasting memories, only ten minutes’ drive from Brisbane city.

How long have you been running your park, and what’s the most rewarding part of the job for you?

GI: I’ve been managing Brisbane Holiday Village for over 30 years. Over that time, I’ve witnessed incredible growth and development in the park, which has been very rewarding.

The most fulfilling part of the job is seeing happy guests return year after year and knowing that we’ve played a part in creating memorable experiences for families, couples and solo travellers.

Also, growing a team of staff who represent our family and who provide the best customer service, as we work towards our goal of having the tidiest caravan holiday park in Australia.

What are the biggest challenges facing caravan holiday park operators today, and how are you tackling them?

GI: One of the biggest challenges is keeping up with evolving guest expectations, while managing operational costs and seasonal fluctuations. We tackle this by continually upgrading our facilities, providing excellent staff training and using technology to streamline operations.

Flexible booking options, seasonal promotions and proactive customer communication also help us maintain strong occupancy rates throughout the year.

We aim to do this while running a successful family business, offering quality customer service and creating trust with all guests.

Can you tell us about any innovative services or experiences you offer to enhance the guest experience?

GI: At Brisbane Holiday Village, we focus on creating memorable experiences for all guests. We offer family-friendly events, activities for children, comfortable and luxury accommodation and recreational programs.

We’ve also implemented digital check-ins and online bookings to make the process smoother.

Guests can enjoy swimming pools, playgrounds and on-site facilities that cater to relaxation and fun.

You mentioned digital check-ins. How is technology changing the way you manage your park?

GI: Technology has transformed both the guest experience and the way we operate the park. Our property management software and online booking platforms make managing reservations easier, while digital communication tools allow us to respond quickly to guest requests and maintenance needs.

High-speed Wi-Fi and text message services keep guests informed and connected during their stay.

How do you manage seasonal fluctuations in bookings?

GI: We manage seasonal fluctuations by offering off-peak deals, package promotions and loyalty offers for returning guests.

Our marketing strategy includes targeted campaigns and partnerships to attract a diverse guest base.

We also encourage long-term and repeat bookings, which help smooth occupancy throughout the year.

What steps are you taking to make your park more sustainable?

GI: Sustainability is a priority at Brisbane Holiday Village. We’ve installed solar hot water systems, energy-efficient lighting, creek water for irrigation and water-saving initiatives.

Recycling and waste reduction are encouraged across the park, and we use environmentally friendly cleaning products.

Promoting responsible behaviour among guests and staff is equally important to help protect the environment for future generations.

Your park is accredited through the Caravan Holiday Park Accreditation Program. What value does this bring to your business and your guests?

GI: Being accredited through the Caravan Holiday Park Accreditation Program highlights our commitment to quality, safety and continuous improvement. It gives guests confidence that they are choosing a park with high standards and excellent facilities.

For us, it provides a framework to consistently maintain these standards, improve operations and ensure every guest enjoys a memorable and safe stay.

It’s also great for our staff to have a safe working environment, and for all of us to work towards the cleanest and safest caravan holiday park in Australia.

The Caravan Holiday Park Accreditation Program sets the standard for industry best practice. Designed for operators who lead with professionalism, the program recognises parks committed to excellence in customer service, risk management, and business planning. LEARN MORE about how your park can become accredited.

Article by Mark Shipton – Accreditation Programs Manager 

In late August, I had the privilege of joining a panel discussion at the Caravan & Residential Parks Victoria Conference in Geelong.

Under the theme “Managing Risks in Your Park,” I was joined on the panel by two highly respected industry colleagues, Julie Pernecker from All Parks Insurance – the winner of the 2025 Eric Hayman OAM Award for Excellence – and David Walker from Project Green Group. 

Together, we tackled important issues that directly impact the safety, insurability and long-term sustainability of caravan holiday parks. Many of these issues are commonly identified during park audits. 

The session was dynamic and informative, with some great questions from the audience – the majority of whom were park owners, operators and managers. 

Below, I’ve shared some of the key themes from our discussion and the practical advice we shared. 

Tree management – Getting the right expertise 

One of the key questions from the floor was around best practice in tree management within caravan holiday parks. 

Trees are a beautiful part of many parks, but they also represent a significant risk if not properly managed. 

We strongly recommended that park operators engage the services of a Level 5 arborist – the highest qualification in this field. Even better, look for an arborist who can offer an end-to-end solution, from the initial audit right through to the ongoing maintenance and management plan. 

This approach ensures a consistent, qualified process and gives operators confidence that their tree risk is being handled proactively. 

Asset maintenance – Don’t cut corners 

Insurance providers and auditors consistently find that poorly maintained assets are a top contributor to park-related claims. 

The panel emphasised the importance of regular and documented maintenance of all park facilities, particularly in relation to these common risk points: 

• Cabins – Ensure there is no rotted timber, loose railings or damaged stairs, particularly around decking areas. 
• Amenities blocks – Conduct slip testing to Australian Standards in wet areas where slips and falls are common. 
• Swimming pools – Ensure depth markers are clearly visible around pools. This has become especially important due to recent injury claims involving guests diving into shallow ends. 

High-risk areas – Pay attention 

Recreational facilities bring joy to guests, but they also carry heightened risk. Areas like playgrounds, pools, water parks, and inflatable pillows require close attention. 

We reminded operators to: 

• Inspect soft fall areas regularly, especially areas where a fall from height may occur, to ensure compliance and effectiveness. 
• Conduct daily inspections of pool fencing and gates. Gates must auto close without fail. 
• Keep detailed records of inspections and any maintenance work. 

Key takeaways 

To wrap up the session, we summarised a few practical actions every park operator should consider implementing: 

• Conduct regular risk assessments, especially in high-risk zones. Be methodical in your evaluations. 
• Create and maintain a documented maintenance schedule. This can support you in the event of an insurance claim or legal matter. 
• Use qualified, licensed professionals for risk-critical work – cutting corners can cost you far more in the long run. 

Final thoughts 

Risk management is not just about meeting standards – it’s about creating a safe, enjoyable environment for your guests and staff, and protecting the longevity of your business. 

It was a pleasure to share the stage with Julie and David, and I hope those who attended the session walked away with useful insights and a renewed focus on risk management. 

Thanks also to Caravan & Residential Parks Victoria, and congratulations on delivering such a professional and impactful event. 

Article by Accessible Accommodation

Caravan holiday parks are becoming increasingly popular among travellers with disabilities, thanks to their self-contained accommodation, excellent value for money, and capacity to cater to large group bookings.

Did you know that 19 per cent of Australians live with a disability? On top of that, around 21 per cent of the population are Baby Boomers – a group whose access needs are growing as they age.

So, what can caravan holiday park operators do to tap into the accessible travel market? Read on to find out.

Chic styling

Many caravan holiday parks are moving away from the traditional “hospital sterile” look of accessible bathrooms, opting instead for chic, stylish designs that don’t compromise on accessibility. And our followers love it!

Big4 Castlemaine Gardens (above) provides a great example – it’s one of the most stylish accessible bathrooms we have encountered. With elegant tiling and sleek black grab rails, the space feels welcoming to all guests.

These days, there’s little to no price difference when choosing brushed gold, copper, or black rails to match your tapware – so don’t be afraid to get creative.

Accessible experiences

Accommodation with accessible swimming pools receives 15 times more bookings on our website each month, compared to those without.

Accessible pools allow the whole family to enjoy the water together, ensuring guests with disabilities aren’t left on the pool deck.

Belmont Lakeside Holiday Park in Lake Macquarie features accessible swimming pools and is already experiencing very high occupancy as a result.

Lake Tinaroo Holiday Park in Northern Queensland also recently unveiled its accessible pool and will no doubt benefit from increased bookings thanks to this inclusive initiative.

Better equipment

Almost half of our bookings come from customers with Tier 3 disabilities (those with higher physical support needs), yet just over 20 per cent of listed properties are equipped to meet these requirements.

Providing equipment such as mobile hoists, electric beds and commodes will give your caravan holiday park an attractive point of difference, resulting in more bookings.

Staff training

Inclusion training courses are an excellent way for park operators and staff to build confidence and provide better service to guests with a disability.

A common scenario we hear is when staff mistakenly assume a guest with a disability is non-verbal and instead address their non-disabled partner during check-in. Creating a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere not only avoids such misunderstandings but also fosters positive experiences that encourage word-of-mouth recommendations.

Learn more

Caravan Industry Association of Australia has negotiated discounted rates for Accessible Accommodation’s consulting services, available to accredited businesses and contributors to the National Advocacy and Marketing Fund. These services include site assessments and recommendations for cost-effective accessibility improvements. CLICK HERE for more information.

A discount for inclusion training is also available. CLICK HERE for more information.

Alternatively, contact Kerry Williams at Accessible Accommodation: [email protected]

This content was provided by Accessible Accommodation as part of its partnership with Caravan Industry Association of Australia. It does not reflect the views or opinions of Caravan Industry Association of Australia. References to products, services and claims made in this article should not be viewed as endorsements from Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

As we move into spring and the weather begins to warm up, caravan holiday park owners and managers should be mindful of the risks that extreme heat – and at times, high humidity – can pose to themselves and their staff.

Those working for extended periods in direct sunlight are vulnerable to dehydration and fatigue.

Additionally, there are hidden risks associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays that businesses must consider.

As an owner or manager of a caravan holiday park, it is important to take the following steps:

• Conduct a risk assessment to determine your workers’ potential exposure to UV rays.
• Implement or update your policy on controlling UV exposure.
• Train your staff on the policy to ensure they understand the available resources and how to use them effectively.
• Regularly monitor the use of controls you’ve put in place, such as sunscreen and protective clothing, to ensure they are being used properly.

As the mercury rises, don’t forget that safety risks also exist for those working indoors or in confined spaces during heatwaves. Examples include workers operating machinery or vehicles without adequate ventilation or air conditioning, or those who spend long periods traveling or working in vehicles. These conditions can lead to fatigue and heat stroke.

Some reasonably practicable steps recommended by safety regulators include:

• Providing workers with suitable hats, clothing, and summer protection.
• Ensuring there is adequate water available to keep workers hydrated.
• Using mechanical aids to reduce physical exertion in the heat.
• Supervising workers to detect signs of fatigue and heat stroke.
• Planning to prioritise strenuous work during cooler parts of the day and lighter tasks during warmer periods.
• Ensuring additional rest breaks, especially in cool or shaded areas.
• Making sure workers are fully informed about the risks of working in the heat, including how to recognise signs of fatigue and heat stroke.

It is crucial that employers take a proactive approach and implement necessary risk management procedures to ensure their employees have essential protection while working in extreme weather.

Mitchell Gawthorn is proof you don’t need a university degree to make a serious impact in tourism.

Now serving as National Operations Manager at NRMA Parks and Resorts, Mitchell has led teams across some of Australia’s most iconic destinations, drawing on passion and resilience to create experiences that are culturally rich and commercially successful.

With a strong focus on sustainability, inclusion and staff empowerment, he’s redefining what the modern caravan holiday park can offer – not just a place to stay but a destination in itself.

Can you start by telling us about your current role and your professional background?

Mitchell Gawthorn (MG): My journey in tourism began in 2007 – not with a degree or a senior title, but with an opportunity and a lot of grit. I stepped into leadership roles early on, driven by a willingness to learn, adapt and lead from the ground up.

This foundation gave me transferable skills across all areas of tourism – from hotels to caravan holiday parks. I’ve held senior roles at iconic Australian destinations, including Kakadu, the Flinders Ranges and now Mon Repos, where I serve as National Operations Manager with NRMA Parks and Resorts.

What are some of your proudest professional achievements?

MG: One of my focuses at NRMA has been leading the multi-million-dollar development of Turtle Sands Nature Resort – an ambitious project located within a highly sensitive turtle nesting area. It has required deep collaboration with community members, government bodies and conservation stakeholders.

At the same time, I’ve worked closely with Traditional Owners to develop a cultural tourism experience that supports reconciliation, creates employment pathways and delivers rich storytelling for our guests.

Whether I’m focused on operational excellence or championing cultural initiatives, I remain committed to building tourism experiences that respect Country, empower people and create long-term value. It’s been a truly rewarding journey.

What are some of the biggest challenges facing the parks sector, and what solutions do you propose?

MG: Guest expectations are shifting. Today’s travellers want more than just a place to stay – they’re looking for meaningful, well-rounded experiences, often with premium or personalised touches. As an industry, we need to move beyond traditional offerings – it’s no longer just about jumping pillows and colouring sheets. We should be providing in-park experiences that keep guests engaged onsite – things like curated family programming, digital convenience, immersive storytelling and educational activities for all ages. These should be the norm, not the exception.

We’re also seeing a rise in occupational violence and aggression toward frontline teams. The sector needs a united stance that clearly communicates zero tolerance for abuse of parks staff or fellow guests. At the same time, staff must be equipped with de-escalation training, clear incident protocols and empowered to prioritise their own safety. A safe working environment is non-negotiable.

While it’s not unique to our sector, rising operational costs and margin pressures are also a growing challenge. With guest price sensitivity remaining high, we must adopt smarter, more efficient practices – leveraging data-driven decisions, streamlining processes and advocating more effectively as an industry. A financially sustainable sector means we can reinvest in what matters – guest experiences, empowered teams and long-term prosperity.

What role do you hope to play in shaping the future success of the industry?

MG: I want to inspire others – especially young people and First Nations Australians – to back themselves, believe in their potential and pursue opportunities with confidence.

I’ve built my career by committing to personal growth, staying authentic and putting my hand up for challenges, even when I didn’t tick every box on paper. I want people to see that you don’t need a degree to lead a team, deliver profitable commercial outcomes, or build a successful business. Those capabilities are developed through experience, resilience and staying true to who you are.

I believe strongly in mentoring and peer support, and I’ll continue to use my role to uplift others helping shape the future of our industry. By encouraging more emerging leaders to step forward and lead with purpose, we can build a stronger, more inclusive industry together.

Our Future Leaders series shines a spotlight on the rising professionals whose passion, innovation, and dedication are shaping the future of our industry. Keep an eye out – more inspiring conversations with future leaders are on the way.

The fun, value and accessibility of caravanning and camping will be showcased to a national television audience of over 4.5 million during the 2025 Road to a Million campaign.

Coordinated by Caravan Industry Association of Australia with support from state association members, this year’s campaign will involve over 1,300 caravan holiday parks.

The national promotion will feature a hero activation in December, where three lucky families or couples will hit the road with Sam Mac, the popular weather presenter from the Seven Network’s Sunrise program. 

These road-trippers will feature in Sam’s daily national weather crosses – showcasing the caravanning and camping lifestyle, along with some of the country’s best caravan holiday parks.  

As Australia’s most watched morning television program, Sunrise provides a powerful platform to position caravanning and camping as Australia’s best value holiday, at the peak time for consumer decision-making. 

“Having families or couples on-air highlights the emotional payoff of camping – the laughter, stories, games and sing-alongs,” said Keelan Howard, General Manager of Marketing and Communications at Caravan Industry Association of Australia. 

“As the country transitions into spring, attention naturally turns to holidays. An activation like this solidifies caravanning and camping in the minds of families making plans.” 

Driving park bookings 

Road to a Million is a national promotion encouraging families to embrace the outdoors and explore the country’s network of caravan holiday parks.  

Each night booked at a participating park gives consumers an entry into a grand prize draw – with the chance to win $1 million on offer.  

Parks located further from their respective capital cities offer entry multipliers, rewarding consumers for venturing further afield. 

In 2024, the campaign attracted over 592,000 entries and generated more than 276,000 nights linked to those entries, highlighting the power of strategic storytelling, national visibility and smart incentives to grow tourism across regional Australia. 

Value beyond the price tag 

While recent Roy Morgan data shows Australian consumer confidence hit a three-year high in August, cost-of-living pressures continue to shape travel behaviours. 

Howard said Australians are actively seeking holidays that offer great value without compromising on experience.

“Through activations like the Sam Mac Road Trip, Road to a Million shows – rather than just tells – that camping delivers memories and adventure for a modest outlay,” explained Howard. 

“With a unified ‘One Industry, One Voice’ approach, the campaign will deliver a consistent message to consumers, highlighting the value and benefits of a camping holiday.”

Caravan holiday parks that are members of their state associations are invited to participate in the 2025 Road to a Million campaign. For more information, contact Caravan Industry Association of Australia’s Marketing Team, [email protected], or get in touch with your local state association. 

 A special thanks to the state associations supporting this national consumer campaign: Caravan & Camping Industry Association NSW, Caravan Parks Association of Queensland Ltd (CPAQ), Caravan Industry Association Western Australia, SA Parks, Caravanning Tasmania and Caravanning NT. 

During recent compliance inspections at industry-run consumer shows, Caravan Industry Association of Australia’s RVMAP team has identified several common issues relating to gas and electrical installations.

Primarily, these relate to the following Australian Standards, which cover electrical and gas installations in recreational vehicles:

• AS/NZS 3001.2:2022: Electrical installations – Connectable electrical installations and supply arrangements; Part 2: Connectable electrical Installations
• AS/NZS 5601.2:2020: Gas Installations; Part 2: LP Gas installations in caravans and boats for nonpropulsive purpose

The most common issues are as follows:

1. Missing gas warning labels

AS/NZS 5601.2:2020 requires warnings, administrative controls, labels and plates to be visable.

Sometimes the size of the label’s font is stipulated, sometimes the material is controlled, sometimes it is required to be legible, permanent, and durable. Usually, the location is controlled. The requirements vary, but labels are not optional.

More information about labels can be found HERE.

These labels are available to purchase through the RVMAP Portal. Alternatively, orders can be placed via our merchandise catalogue.

2. Ignition source within gas controlled area

To prevent risks associated with gas leaks, a ‘controlled area’ surrounds each cylinder. Here, ‘cones’ overlap and control the area above, around, and under the cylinder, extending to the ground. The area also wraps around the vehicle.

Ignition sources, such as electrical devices, are commonly found within the controlled areas of inspected vehicles, constituting a breach of Australian Standards.

More information about the controlled area can be found HERE.

3. Socket outlets and switches within exclusion zones

During inspections, socket outlets and switches are commonly located within exclusion zones.

A reminder: Socket outlets, switches, and electrical equipment, along with low voltage and extra-low voltage devices, must not be fitted within the exclusion zone around cooking appliances.

More information about exclusion zones can be found HERE.

Any questions in relation to this update can be emailed to [email protected]

Blake Gray isn’t just selling caravans – he’s championing a lifestyle.

With a drive to innovate and a sharp focus on both local and global trends, the Sales Manager for Viscount, Concept, and Newlands Caravans is shaping the future of the RV industry.

In this instalment of our Future Leaders series, Blake explains why he embraces change and shares his vision to keep caravanning relevant and enriching for generations to come.

Can you start by telling us about your current role and your professional background.

Blake Gray (BG): After graduating from university with a business degree here in Melbourne, I moved to the UK to see the world and broaden my horizons. I was lucky enough to land a sales job in London – my first foray into the sales arena. That opportunity taught me a lot about self-sufficiency, lessons I still carry with me today.

When I returned home, I joined the dealership sales team at Concept Caravans. My first assignment was the Melbourne Supershow at Flemington in January 2017. It was a hugely valuable experience, not just in selling caravans but also in understanding the industry – its size and the wide range of products on offer. That successful start at the dealership paved the way for my move into the mainstream manufacturing side of the business.

Fast forward to 2024 and I’m now the Sales Manager for Viscount, Concept, and Newlands Caravans. My role covers sales and marketing, purchasing, customer service, warranty, production planning, and overseeing operations across our network of 11 dealerships.

How are you guiding your business through current industry challenges and transformations?

BG: The world as a market is getting smaller, so businesses like ours need to rethink how we operate. We’re focused on responding to both local and global opportunities and challenges.

We constantly keep an eye on international markets to learn about emerging products and ideas that can give us a competitive edge – whether that’s through new materials, design concepts, or improving production efficiency. This work also opens doors to new offshore markets. With competition growing in Australia, diversification isn’t just smart business, it’s essential.

At the same time, we’re building strong relationships with both local and international suppliers to help ensure our collective long-term viability in the RV space.

While it’s easy to focus on the challenges facing the RV industry, when you take a step back, you realise that change has always been part of positioning any product in the RV market – whether it’s imported or locally made. The key to running a successful business is the ability to adapt to change. Better still, if you can anticipate change before it arrives, you’re already ahead.

In line with this response, what role do you hope to play in shaping the future success of the industry?

BG: Realistically, caravanning and camping represent only a small part of Australia’s broader recreational landscape. However, international research shows that hitting the road in a caravan can deliver real health benefits.

I see a real opportunity to spread this message – from future generations of caravanners and campers at schools through to the halls of Parliament House in Canberra. What I love about my job is we’re not just making and selling a product; we’re enriching people’s lives.

Our Future Leaders series shines a spotlight on the rising professionals whose passion, innovation, and dedication are shaping the future of our industry. Keep an eye out — more inspiring conversations with future leaders are on the way.

Caravan Industry Association of Australia is pleased to announce Crusader Caravans and JB Caravans are the first businesses to carry the RVMAP Australian badge. 

This badge has been introduced to provide additional information on the source of RV products. It will be phased in as a replacement for the RVMAP Manufacturer badge. 

The current RVMAP International badge remains available to accredited businesses sourcing their RV products from outside Australia. This may mean some RVMAP businesses carry different RVMAP badges on different RV products.

Michael Paidoussis of Crusader Caravans (pictured above, centre) said the company was proud to carry the RVMAP Australian badge on its vehicles, emphasising the importance of transparency to RV consumers.

“Consumers deserve the very best in their RV products and should be fully informed around their RV purchase, which can be one of the most important and rewarding decisions they ever make,” Paidoussis said.

“That’s why we support RVMAP and are proud to carry the RVMAP Australian badge – a symbol of our proud Australian manufacturing heritage.” 

Sharon Xue of JB Caravans has been a long-time supporter of Australian manufacturing. She said it was natural for her company to be an early adopter of the RVMAP Australian badge. 

“We are very proud of being Australian made and believe RV consumers should better understand where their RVs are manufactured,” Xue said. “This is why we support carrying the RVMAP Australian badge.” 

One standard, every RV 

Irrespective of each RV product’s origin, the criteria for carrying an RVMAP badge remain consistent.  

Badges are only available to accredited businesses that pass compliance inspections and show a strong commitment to consumer safety, ongoing education, and adherence to Australian compliance requirements.  

RVMAP businesses undergo extensive and regular product inspections, covering ADR evidence, along with gas and electrical compliance obligations. They also have access to key compliance tools, education around Vehicle Type Approvals, and reviews of their Quality Management Systems. 

Paidoussis praised the RVMAP program for its positive impact on Crusader Caravans’ business operations, product safety, and compliance readiness. 

“Being part of the RVMAP program has improved our business and helped make our products safer, while also protecting us from future regulatory and compliance costs,” Paidoussis said.

“We welcome the RVMAP team into our factory to assess our manufacturing processes and product designs. Anything that helps us improve and deliver better RV products is something we embrace and encourage.” 

These stringent standards and support resources are delivering clear benefits. According to consumer research, RVMAP product inspections uncover, on average, fewer than one-third as many compliance concerns compared to RV products inspected outside the RVMAP program. 

Topics: Feature, RVMAP

Federal Parliament is back in session, and our General Manager — Government Relations, Luke Chippindale, has returned to Canberra to represent the interests of our industry at the highest levels.

Top of Luke’s agenda are initiatives that drive productivity gains for park operators. Watch Luke’s update from Canberra (below) to hear about the conversations he has been having with key decision makers, their advisors and federal departments.

Article by HR Legal

As the common saying goes: “there are not enough hours in the day!” This is true in many situations, particularly in caravan holiday parks, where it can often seem the working week does not contain enough hours for employees to get the job done.

The legal position under the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) (FW Act) is that an employer must not request or require a full-time employee to work more than 38 hours per week, unless the additional hours are reasonable. Employees retain the right to refuse any additional hours that are considered to be unreasonable.

The FW Act outlines a list of non-exhaustive factors an employer must take into account when considering whether additional hours are reasonable, including, work health and safety risks, employee’s personal circumstances (including family responsibilities), business requirements, notice provided and the nature and seniority of the employee’s role.

So, while it can be reasonable to require some employees to work over and above their standard weekly hours in certain circumstances, often it is asked, at what stage do these additional reasonable hours become unreasonable and overtime becomes a legal risk?

The Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia has recently considered this question, finding that it was unreasonable for an employer to require one of its employees to work a 40-hour work week.

In that case, the employee, Ms Chin, was employed by Visual Thing Australia Pty Ltd (VTA) as a Creative Retouching Specialist in a full-time capacity from 2014 to 2022. Ms Chin’s written employment contract contained the following clause:

Ms Chin received no compensation for working two hours of overtime each week. Ms Chin claimed that VTA had breached the FW Act by requiring that she consistently work unreasonable additional hours over the course of her employment.

The Court found that in this case, the additional two hours per week were unreasonable because they were:

• Required on a consistent and ongoing basis, rather than being occasional or incidental;
• Not compensated in any form – that is, there was no financial payment or recognition for the additional work; and
• A fundamental expectation of employment rather than an occasional necessity.

What does this mean for employers?

This decision highlights that it was not the two additional hours per week in isolation that was unreasonable – it was that the extra hours were consistently and permanently required for the employee’s entire employment.

It is not uncommon across holiday and caravan parks for employers to require employees to work a standard 40-hour work week – often due to the fast-paced environment, strict deadlines and customer/industry expectations. However, while these factors may exist, it does not provide employers with an automatic right to require employees consistently work a 40-hour week, without further consideration.

Employers should ensure they take a proactive approach in managing these risks and avoid implementing a ‘one size fits all approach’.

If you need assistance in ensuring compliance with your workplace obligations, please do not hesitate to contact HR Legal: (03) 9948 2450.

This content was provided by HR Legal as part of its partnership with Caravan Industry Association of Australia. It does not reflect the views or opinions of Caravan Industry Association of Australia. References to products, services and claims made in this article should not be viewed as endorsements from Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

Federal Parliament is back in session, and our General Manager – Government Relations, Luke Chippindale, returned to Canberra for the first sitting period since May.

Catch up on what Luke has been working on over the past two weeks

Week Two Wrap

Luke wraps up a busy two weeks in the nation’s capital.

Week Two Update

In the second week of parliamentary sittings, Luke focused on advancing policies that enhance productivity and strengthen Australia’s manufacturing sector for long-term resilience.

Caravan Holiday Parks Update

Initiatives that drive productivity gains for caravan holiday park operators were top of Luke’s agenda in the first week.

Week One Update

Back in Canberra for the first parliamentary sitting since May, Luke provides an overview the key initiatives he’s championing, the stakeholders he’s meeting with, and the critical issues he’s advocating for on behalf of our industry.”

The recent Caravan to a Million (CTAM) marketing campaign reaffirmed Australians’ strong commitment to the camping lifestyle, with caravan holiday parks continuing to be a preferred choice for RV travellers.

Delivered from 1 February to 30 June 2025 and largely funded by Caravan Industry Association of Australia, CTAM’s consumer-facing competition received over 80,000 entries.

This broad engagement translated into measurable value growth for the caravan holiday park sector, as evidenced by survey insights from nearly 3,000 competition participants.

Over 46% of survey participants said the campaign inspired them to take a dedicated camping trip, while 89% of RV owners said they continue to use caravan holiday parks – citing amenities, safety, and social opportunities as the top reasons.

With more than 900,000 registered RVs in Australia, this indicates a strong, ongoing reliance on well-serviced parks across the country.

“The campaign’s core objective was to ‘create campers for life’ and position camping as the number one holiday choice in Australia,” said Keelan Howard, General Manager of Marketing and Communications at Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

“The results clearly show caravan holiday parks remain a central part of that journey for many travellers.”

Data-driven targeting power’s campaign’s success

CTAM was strategically designed to connect with the right audiences. Howard said Experian profiling was used to segment the market into three high-potential groups:

1. Comfortable Foundations
   Generation X families with school-aged children, working in white-collar professions and living in suburban areas, with a strong media appetite for radio, social platforms, and outdoor advertising.
2. Family Fringes
   Middle-aged traditional families living on large outer-suburban blocks, with comfortable incomes and long commutes, with a preference for traditional media like radio and newspapers.
3. Traditional Pursuits
   Traditional families and single parents with school-aged children living in outer suburban and regional locations, who over-index in television, radio, social media, and online browsing.

Targeted media placement across these segments helped ensure broad reach and relevance, driving both awareness and tangible travel decisions.

Big finale to come

One lucky CTAM entrant will soon have the chance to win $1 million – a headline-grabbing moment designed to reinforce camping’s profile as the best value holiday in the country.

“Camping delivers not only excellent value for money but also significant wellbeing benefits,” Howard explained. “Studies consistently show camping is associated with improved physical health, stronger personal relationships, and better mental wellbeing.

“Caravan Industry Association of Australia is proud to support this continued growth through major national promotions like Caravan to a Million.”

Amanda Dempster is leading the charge to modernise Australia’s caravan holiday parks – while preserving their unique charm.

Drawing on her own lived experience as a park owner, Amanda and her team at Holiday Brands are harnessing cutting-edge marketing tools to help parks across Australia boost direct bookings and maximise profitability.

This blend of innovation, dedication, and passion earned her the thl – Future Leaders Award and the Gerry Ryan OAM Award for Innovation at the 2025 Caravan Industry Awards.

As part of our Future Leaders series, Amanda shares her vision for a modern, resilient industry — one where parks of all sizes can innovate with confidence.

Congratulations on winning the thl – Future Leaders Award and the Gerry Ryan OAM Award for Innovation. What does winning these awards mean to you? 

Amanda Dempster (AD): Winning these awards is incredibly meaningful, not just personally, but for what they represent. It’s validation that thinking differently and backing bold ideas, even in the face of resistance, can genuinely make a difference.  

I’ve spent the past year deep in the trenches – testing new technology and finding smarter ways to help caravan holiday park operators thrive. To have that recognised by industry leaders is truly humbling.  

I hope it inspires more people to try new things, ask daring questions, and challenge the status quo.  

Tell us about your current role and your professional background.

AD: I’m the founder of Holiday Brands, a marketing agency that works primarily with caravan industry operators to help them modernise, grow their direct bookings, and deliver better guest & customer experiences. I also now own and run Stanthorpe Holiday Park.

I’ve been immersed in the caravan park industry for over 14 years, helping operators improve profits & their own brand recognition with smart affordable marketing. A little over a year ago, I wanted to do something bold to prove what was possible. I purchased a very neglected park with not a single forward booking to bring my craziest marketing ideas to life and prove anyone can do it. The park’s been completely transformed, and I’m proud to say it’s now the first in Australia with a full-time AI receptionist, and we’re committed to pushing the boundaries iof what a holiday park can offer.

I now live and breathe park life from all angles— from blocked toilets to growth planning. But at the heart of it, I’m still doing what I’ve always loved: helping parks grow in a fast-changing world.

What do you consider the biggest challenges facing the caravan and camping industry, and what solutions do you propose?

AD: One of the biggest challenges is rising operational costs and limited resources. Small parks and even dealerships can’t afford big teams, yet customers still expect 24/7 service.
We’ve tackled this through tools like our AI receptionist and our marketing platform, MarketingPA — which now handles 95% of our park’s enquiries and marketing tasks. I’m now focused on broader solutions to help automate operations and marketing without increasing overheads.

Another key challenge is rising guest expectations and the widening gap between independent and corporate parks. Larger, well-funded groups are lifting the benchmark. Smaller parks often can’t keep up — and that’s a fair reality. I believe independents need better tools & more opportunities with scalable marketing and operational support — and we have some exciting projects in the works to help with that.

There’s also a real gap in guest education around park etiquette, site setups, and expectations. The consequences are serious — from damaged infrastructure and poor reviews to both guests and operators leaving the industry. I’ve been working on How to Van, an online platform featuring quick, engaging clips to help travellers learn how to caravan and behave on the road. It’s practical and fills a gap the industry has needed to address for a long time.

In line with this response, what role do you hope to play in shaping the future success of the industry?

AD: I’d love to be a voice for innovation, sustainability, and support for independent operators — especially those starting out or trying to modernise without losing the heart and identity of their park.

My focus is on bridging the gap between traditional park operations and the expectations of today’s travellers. That means helping and empowering operators to get comfortable with digital marketing, automation tools, and systems that ease pressure without compromising guest experience.

I also want to champion better traveller education — so that park and dealership staff enjoy more respectful, informed interactions with guests.

Most of all, I want to bring real-world operator experience into industry discussions. I want to ensure small & regional parks aren’t left behind to face growing costs, fierce competition & corporatisation, and rising guest expectations.

I truly believe the future of this industry is exciting if we’re bold enough to try new things and challenge old habits.  We need to be honest and humble about our challenges, and support each other through the change.

This is the first installment of our Future Leaders series — where we shine a spotlight on the rising professionals whose passion, innovation, and dedication are shaping the future of our industry. Keep an eye out — more inspiring conversations with future leaders are on the way.

In caravan holiday parks across Australia, children riding bikes, scooters, skateboards, and pedal karts are a familiar sight. While providing heaps of fun, these activities come with a significant injury risk if not properly managed. For park operators, ensuring a safe environment for kids means putting in place proactive measures to minimise the chance of accidents on wheels.

Understanding the risk factors

Wheeled activities carry several inherent risks, including:

• Collisions with vehicles entering or exiting sites.
• Crashes between children riding at different speeds or on mixed equipment.
• Falls due to uneven surfaces, obstacles, or poor lighting.
• Lack of protective gear such as helmets and closed-toe shoes.
• Speeding or reckless riding in congested areas.

These risks are magnified in high-traffic periods such as school holidays, where large volumes of guests mean more people and more movement within the park.

Safety procedures for park operators

To effectively manage these risks, park operators should consider implementing the following procedures:

Designated riding zones

• Create clear, designated paths or zones for wheeled activities, away from vehicle traffic and pedestrian-heavy areas like camp kitchens and amenities blocks.
• For pedal karts, consider establishing a supervised or enclosed track to avoid mixing with general traffic.

Speed control and signage

• Enforce a low-speed limit throughout the park (e.g., 10 km/h), applying to all vehicles and riders.
• Use bold, visual signage throughout the park that appeals to both kids and adults.
• Paint speed limit signs directly on roadways and install speed humps at strategic locations.

Helmet and gear enforcement

• Promote the use of helmets and appropriate safety gear for all riders.
• Consider offering helmet hire or low-cost helmets for sale at reception.
• Encourage the use of closed-toe shoes and discourage barefoot or thonged riding.

Surface and lighting maintenance

• Conduct regular inspections of roadways and riding paths for potholes, loose gravel, or other hazards.
• Ensure all paths are well-lit at night, especially around curves or intersections.

Traffic awareness education

• Provide a child safety and riding etiquette flyers or digital guides at check-in.
• Use social media, park apps, or noticeboards to post safety reminders during peak periods.
• Consider running short safety workshops or ‘Rider Rules’ briefings during school holidays.
• Remind parents they should be supervising young children at all times.

Staff vigilance and incident reporting

• Train park staff to monitor high-use areas and intervene if unsafe riding is observed.
• Establish a clear incident reporting system to record and use data to improve safety practices.

Creating a safer riding culture

By fostering a riding environment that balances freedom with responsibility, park operators not only reduce the risk of injuries – they create a safer, more enjoyable experience for all guests. With a combination of infrastructure, education, and awareness, caravan holiday parks can allow kids to enjoy life on wheels while keeping safety rolling right alongside them.

This technical article was written by the RVMAP Team – Your year-round compliance partner.

A key element of being eligible to obtain some approvals under the Road Vehicle Standards Act of 2018 (RVSA) will be your ability to prove you have either:

• Full control over all stages of the design, componentry and manufacturing process for the type of road vehicle or road vehicle component; or
• Access to information, including information about any changes, relating to the design, componentry and manufacture of the type of road vehicle or road vehicle component that may affect its compliance with the applicable national road vehicle standards.

If you indicate you have full control, you will need to have some form of QMS in place to demonstrate that you have effective control on Conformity of Production. To ensure every Recreational Vehicle produced consistently conforms with these mandatory regulations, manufacturers and importers need to have an effective system in place to control and document all stages of the design and manufacturing process.

As an RVSA approval holder, you may be subjected to a federal regulator audit at any time. Failure to demonstrate you have effective control of your processes (or access to information, including information about any changes, relating to the design, componentry and manufacture of the type of road vehicle or road vehicle component) may result in your approval being suspended or cancelled – meaning you can no longer supply Recreational Vehicles to market.

Why is it important?

You will not be able to obtain some approvals (e.g. vehicle and component type approval) under the RVSA unless you can demonstrate that you have effective control on conformity of production. This means you have effective control (or access to information) over all stages of design, componentry, and manufacture of the recreational vehicle and component you are producing or supplying through some form of QMS.

In addition, there are many other benefits to implementing an effective QMS, such as improved efficiency, reduced re-work costs, lower warranty rates/claims and improved customer satisfaction – just to name a few.

QMS Checklist

To assist RV businesses in implementing their QMS, the Federal Department has developed a Quality Management System Checklist. This checklist is based on requirements outlined in Appendix 2 and 3 of the Guide to Vehicle Type Approval, or the Guide to Vehicle Type Approval for Low ATM Trailers.

Download the checklist HERE.

For questions or assistance, head to the Federal Department’s dedicated RVSA Contact Page

As an accredited dealership in the Retail Dealership Accreditation Program, maintaining high standards isn’t just about ticking compliance boxes; it’s about reinforcing a business culture grounded in professionalism, customer trust, and long-term success.

Your dealership has already demonstrated a strong commitment to best practice, but accreditation is not a destination, it’s an ongoing journey of improvement, accountability, and leadership within our industry.  The business practices you have in place govern the success of your dealership.

Below are a few reminders of the practices your dealership should be embracing and why.

Risk management: Proactive over reactive

Even the most experienced dealerships face operational risks. From customer safety and financial oversight to warranty obligations and compliance with evolving legislation, risk must be systematically managed. Having clear, current policies is vital – but equally important is regularly reviewing and stress-testing these systems. Best practice means identifying risks before they escalate and taking action to mitigate them early.

Customer service: Consistency builds reputation

Exceptional customer service isn’t just a differentiator – it’s an expectation. In today’s connected world, word-of-mouth spreads quickly. Best practice customer service means clear communication, transparency in dealings, and responsiveness to feedback or concerns. For accredited businesses, it’s essential to lead by example and consistently exceed expectations at every stage of the customer journey, before, during and after the sale.

Ethical selling: Earning trust through transparency

In an industry built on lifestyle dreams and significant investment, ethical selling must remain a non-negotiable. Sales teams should be continuously trained to prioritise customer needs, provide accurate product information, and avoid pressure tactics. Trust is earned and an ethical approach leads to loyal customers, fewer disputes, and a stronger brand reputation.

HR management: Investing in your people

Your team is the face of your dealership. HR best practices covering everything from fair recruitment and staff development to performance management and workplace wellbeing directly affect customer experience and business success. Ongoing training, particularly in compliance, customer service, and product knowledge, ensures your staff stay sharp, motivated, and aligned with accreditation standards.

Ethical marketing: Honesty sells better than hype

Marketing in the caravan and RV industry must strike a balance between inspiration and integrity. Best practice involves ensuring all advertising – online, print, or in-person – is accurate, unambiguous, and in line with Australian Consumer Law. Accredited businesses are expected to market not only the dream of caravanning, but also the reality – openly and responsibly.

A reminder to reflect and review

As an accredited dealership, you’ve already demonstrated your capability and commitment. Continuous improvements will ensure your standards remain not only current, but exemplary. Use your accreditation criteria framework as a tool to regularly review your practices, engage your team, and seek ways to enhance performance.

By actively upholding and building on your accreditation commitments, your dealership helps raise the bar for the entire industry. Let your example be the benchmark others strive for.

The Caravan to a Million (CTAM) campaign has again proven the value of targeted, industry-led initiatives in promoting RV ownership and usage across Australia.

Delivered from 1 February to 30 June 2025 and largely funded by Caravan Industry Association of Australia, CTAM was developed to support more than 700 businesses across the RV manufacturing, dealership, servicing and repair sectors.

Purpose-Driven Promotion in a Shifting Market

In a climate of cautious consumer spending, the campaign’s primary goals were to:

• Encourage greater RV usage by reminding owners of the lifestyle and financial value in regular use of their vehicle.
• Educate both existing and new RV owners, providing tailored information based on stage-of-life needs and helping demystify key product features; and
• Promote member-run caravan shows as cost-effective, social and informative ways to explore RV options and further supporting the investment of many industries businesses into these retail events.

Strong consumer engagement and positive outcomes

Despite challenging consumer conditions, CTAM delivered exceptional consumer engagement. The campaign’s consumer-facing competition generated:

• 80,971 total entries
• 17,444 caravan show tickets linked to participating members
• Queensland led the nation in entry numbers

This broad engagement translated into genuine behavioural shifts among consumers, as evidenced by survey insights from nearly 3,000 participants, which included:

• 74% reported the campaign placed camping “front of mind”
• 87% expressed positive sentiment, saying they either loved or liked the campaign
• 36% began product research

Importantly, 89% of respondents recognised the value of industry accreditation in their decision-making – highlighting the trust placed in RV businesses that uphold high compliance standards.

Over 95% of consumers indicated they would maintain or increase their camping activity over the next 12 months, despite broader economic uncertainty.

Resilient industry, united by purpose

Keelan Howard, General Manager Marketing and Communications at Caravan Industry Association of Australia, said the campaign demonstrated the critical role of coordinated industry marketing in sustaining interest and building confidence in RV travel.

“By bringing together manufacturers, dealers, repairers and show organisers under a unified campaign, the initiative not only delivered visibility,” Howard said.

A special thanks to our state trade associations for helping make CTAM a major national promotion: Caravanning Queensland, Caravan & Camping Industry Association NSW, Caravan Industry Association Western Australia, Caravan Industry Victoria, and Caravan & Camping SA.

Earlier in the year, Caravan Industry Association of Australia held several meetings with the Federal Department to discuss compliance and enforcement activity within our industry.

During these meetings, the Department indicated it would be increasing its focus on low ATM trailers, including caravans and camper trailers.

This message has been reaffirmed by the Department, with a number of investigations either completed or currently underway within our sector.

The Department has also indicated it will be stepping up its activity at caravan and camping shows, sending some of its investigative engineers to conduct ADR checks on products.  Its observations will then be forwarded to the Department’s compliance and enforcement team for follow-up.    

The Department presented to industry businesses at the recent Caravan Industry National Conference, telling them that a new team had been created. This team intends to conduct a greater number of inspections on low ATM trailers during 2025 and beyond. 

We are also aware the Department is currently requesting much more information regarding evidence supplied for Vehicle Type Approval (VTA) applications. Under the Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA), the Department can impose a number of penalties, including the suspension of a business’ VTA.  Suspended businesses are unable to supply and register products to market until their suspension is lifted.  

This was reaffirmed in a statement from the Department.

“The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts is proactively monitoring low ATM trailer approval holders to ensure they understand their role and legal responsibilities,” the statement read.

“We recently established a new dedicated team to facilitate a larger number of reviews and inspections. This new team will be focussing on conducting more in-depth validations of low ATM trailer applications and approvals under the Road Vehicle Standards legislation.”

One of the key elements of holding a VTA under the RVSA is to have control over the manufacturing process and hold a complete and active quality management system (QMS).  During 2025, the RVMAP team (all members certified in ‘Lead Auditing in Quality Management Systems ISO 9001:2015 & ISO 19011:2018’) has reviewed a number of manufactures’ QMS and found them to be incomplete or, in some cases, non-existent.  If requested by the Department, manufacturers are expected to supply specific parts of their QMS or the whole QMS for review under a desktop audit.  

To view the Federal Department’s QMS requirements CLICK HERE 

If you would like Caravan Industry Association of Australia to review or assist in updating your QMS, please contact [email protected]   

Australia’s caravan and camping industry plays a vital role in supporting domestic manufacturing, tourism, and regional development. However, regulatory fragmentation and market inefficiencies are limiting the sector’s ability to reach its full economic potential.

To address these challenges, Caravan Industry Association of Australia recently made a submission to the Federal Government’s Productivity Commission. The submission outlines key productivity barriers and offers practical, nationally scalable reforms.

Here’s a summary of our key recommendations:

Electrical licensing harmonisation
A fragmented national approach to electrical trade licensing undermines workforce mobility and imposes significant productivity losses on RV manufacturers. Caravan Industry Association of Australia advocates for full AMR coverage, modular certification, and digital licensure verification.

Operational standard harmonisation for caravan holiday parks
The absence of national standards for caravan holiday park operations leads to inconsistent compliance, deterring investment and creating inefficiencies. Caravan Industry Association of Australia proposes a model code adaptable to local development contexts.

Market distortion from state-sponsored free camping
Unregulated free camping undermines private investment in compliant tourism infrastructure and distorts fair market competition. Caravan Industry Association of Australia calls for regulatory parity or cessation of government-backed free camping schemes.

Infrastructure grants
Economic modelling shows infrastructure grants to caravan holiday parks vastly outperform free camping in return on investment and regional job creation, supporting policy realignment toward structured funding.

International best practice
Lessons from New Zealand and the UK highlight how national regulatory cohesion and segmented standards can protect consumers, support innovation, and improve compliance efficiency without stifling diversity.

Domestic manufacturing competitiveness
With 44 per cent of Australia’s RVs now imported, local manufacturers face unfair competition due to asymmetric regulation and labour standards. Caravan Industry Association of Australia proposes a suite of pro-manufacturing policies, including investment allowances, harmonised codes, and local supplier support.

Addressing regulatory inconsistencies and market distortions has the potential to unlock significant economic gains across the Australian caravan and camping sector. Caravan Industry Association of Australia is ready to work with the Federal Government to get these reforms moving, ensuring the long-term sustainability of one of Australia’s most economically significant industries.

Topics: Advocacy News, Feature, Industry Headlines, Manufacturing & Jobs, Newsdesk, Parks

Article by Ecotourism Australia

In an era where travellers are increasingly conscious of their environmental impact, sustainability is more than just a buzzword – it’s a key driver of consumer choice.

Caravan holiday parks that hold an ECO or Sustainable Tourism Certification from Ecotourism Australia are already demonstrating their sustainability credentials. But to fully leverage this achievement, it’s crucial to ensure your certification is visible where your future guests are looking, such as on Booking.com.

Why uploading your certification matters

1. Increased exposure to eco-conscious travellers: Booking.com has integrated sustainability into its platform by highlighting certified businesses with its ‘Sustainability Certification’ filter. This feature helps travellers easily identify and support operators committed to responsible practices. Uploading your Ecotourism Australia certification ensures you appear in these filtered searches, connecting you with guests who prioritise sustainability.
2. Build trust and gain a competitive edge: Displaying your certification on Booking.com does more than just inform – it instills confidence. Our certifications are independently verified, assuring potential guests that your caravan holiday park is truly walking the talk when it comes to reducing your environmental impact. Guests are more likely to book with businesses they trust, giving you a clear advantage over uncertified competitors.
3. Alignment with global booking trends: Research shows that over 70 per cent of global travellers are more likely to book accommodation that’s environmentally friendly, with Booking.com reporting that demand for sustainable stays continues to grow year-on-year. Don’t miss out on this market – make sure your certification is visible where it counts.

How to upload your certification

The process is simple:

1. Log in to your Booking.com extranet.
2. Navigate to the ‘Property’ tab, then select ‘Sustainability Practices.’
3. Scroll down to ‘Certifications,’ and select ‘Ecotourism Australia – Sustainable Tourism Certification’ or ‘Ecotourism Australia – ECO Certification’ from the list.
4. Upload a copy of your valid certificate or provide verification details as required.
5. Your park will then display the ‘Sustainability Certification’ badge as seen below:

If you don’t see the certification listed or have any issues, contact your Booking.com account manager for support.

Lead the way in sustainable travel

Your commitment to sustainability deserves to be seen and rewarded. By uploading your Ecotourism Australia certification to Booking.com, you not only support your own success but also help shape a more responsible, eco-conscious tourism industry in Australia and beyond.

Make your sustainability certification is visible to show travellers they can explore responsibly – right from your doorstep.

This content was provided by Ecotourism Australia as part of its partnership with Caravan Industry Association of Australia. It does not reflect the views or opinions of Caravan Industry Association of Australia. References to products, services and claims made in this article should not be viewed as endorsements from Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

From 1 July 2025, our accreditation team will introduce updates to the assessment process under the Caravan Holiday Park Accreditation Program.

Below is a summary of the upcoming changes and how future assessments will be conducted with park operators:

What’s changing?

Annual Renewal Declarations

Digitalisation of the annual declaration form.

Currently:

• A PDF declaration is attached to the accreditation renewal invoice when sent via email and completed, scanned and emailed back to accreditation team.

New process:

• An online declaration form will be included in the accreditation renewal letter sent via email to park operators to be completed and submitted electronically.  No more printing, scanning and emailing declarations!

On-site Assessment Frequency

The time period between an assessor conducting an on-site assessment with park operators is changing from:

• Onsite visits every three (3) years, to
• Onsite visits every five (5) years

What’s new?

Self-assessments

Park operators will be required to conduct two (2) self-assessments within the five-year (5) assessment cycle. 

These assessments will be on a digital form with the ability to upload evidence. They will focus on risk management and HR management. The process will be condensed to minimise park operators’ time conducting the self-assessments.

In summary

These changes are designed to help accredited caravan holiday parks improve the way they run their businesses and ensure continued compliance to the accreditation criteria.