Rural and regional caravan parks rely on tourism to keep afloat and with federal elections looming this year, the Caravan Industry Association is urging political parties to support policies that promote regional growth, improve road safety, and encourage tourism sustainability.

To guide the policymakers the Association has unveiled a new policy roadmap, The Road Ahead: A View to the Future.

With the rise in caravanning and camping playing a key role in domestic tourism and regional economic growth, the Caravan Industry Association of Australia is hoping political parties will back targeted initiatives to help deliver safer journeys and stronger regional economies.

 Their proposed initiatives include the following:

Accessible and Sustainable Parks – Caravan Park Infrastructure Upgrades

• • $10 million in Round 2 funding to modernise caravan parks, prioritising accessibility and eco-friendly infrastructure, driving regional tourism growth.

Safer Roads

• • $3 million for subsidised towing courses targeting 10,000 participants annually.
  • A $2 million National Safe Towing Campaign to improve education and awareness.

Ensuring Sovereign Manufacturing Through Modernisation

• • Tax offsets for sustainable manufacturing initiatives.
  • A permanent extension of the Instant Asset Write-Off program for manufacturers.

Supporting Small Business

• • $5 million Small Business Red Tape Reduction Fund over four years.
  • $1 million annually for Digital Transformation Grants to enhance productivity.

Future Fuels and Decarbonisation

• • $40 million National Caravan Industry Sustainability Fund over five years.
  • 5% tax rebate for carbon-neutral caravan parks to support emissions reduction goals.

Image courtesy Nyngan Riverside Tourist Park

“As an industry we continue to see growth across both the manufacturing and tourism sectors of the industry, growth that has seen the industry achieve some dizzying milestones,” said Stuart Lamont, CEO, Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

“The humble industry is no longer, contributing $27 Billion annually to GDP, over 900,000 registered caravans and RVs travelling the country’s roads, and last year we saw Australians make a record 15.3 million trips and stay 60.7 million visitor nights, most of which were in regional and rural Australia.

"Caravanning is the backbone of domestic tourism, particularly in regional areas. These policy priorities aim to make journeys safer and communities stronger while enhancing the overall experience for travellers."

Stuart Lamont, CEO of the Caravan Industry Association

Emily Stanton from Nyngan Riverside Tourist Park says every initiative that promotes safety and travel to the bush while also building on infrastructure is invaluable, and a positive way to assist not only park owners but travellers and communities everywhere.

“I think initiatives like the ten-million-dollar Caravan Park Infrastructure Grant are fantastic because they directly address the needs of regional and remote communities while fostering growth in tourism,” according to Mrs Stanton.

She says that, for regional parks, the biggest benefits often come from investments in:

• • Improved Amenities: Modern facilities like clean bathrooms, camp kitchens, and laundry areas make a big difference for visitors.

• • Accessible roads: Well-maintained access roads make parks more appealing and safer for all vehicles, especially for caravans and motorhomes.

• • Digital Connectivity: Reliable Wi-Fi or mobile signal coverage helps travelers stay connected, whether for work, family, or trip planning.

• • Family-Friendly features: Adding playgrounds, splash pads, or shaded areas creates more appeal for families too.

Image courtesy Nyngan Riverside Tourist Park

One western area Caravan Park worker told Western Plains App, tourists are frequenting Caravan and Tourist Parks more and more so Government support can only be a huge asset.

“With the declining economy, more people and families are taking to the road with caravans and motorhomes," they said.

"By educating these travellers on matters of safety and then by improving infrastructure in the Parks themselves, we will be building a better world for those who wish to travel and see the country."

Image courtesy Nyngan Riverside Tourist Park

The Caravan Industry Association of Australia are calling on government and industry stakeholders to support their proposed initiatives, ensuring the caravan industry continues to thrive while making Australian roads and regions safer and more accessible.