The Week in Holiday Parks: 10 News Stories Operators Should Know
No single announcement dominated Australia’s Holiday Park industry during the past seven
days, but several smaller developments could affect park operations, staffing, marketing and
future bookings. Here are ten news highlights worth having on the radar.
1. Tasmania Passes New Residential Park Laws
Tasmania’s Residential Parks Bill 2026 has passed Parliament, introducing clearer rights,
responsibilities, eviction processes and dispute-resolution arrangements for long-term
caravan and residential park residents.
Why it matters: Tasmanian operators with permanent residents should review their
agreements and management procedures and seek advice about the new requirements
before they commence.
Find out more – Tasmanian Government
2. NSW Leads Australia’s Caravan and Camping Market
New figures show NSW welcomed 5.5 million domestic caravan and camping visitors during
2025—more than one-third of Australia’s total. The North Coast attracted 26% of NSW visits,
followed by the South Coast at 17%.
Why it matters: NSW parks should use this strong market data in promotions while
analysing whether their own bookings are keeping pace with statewide growth.
Find out more – Australasian Leisure Management
3. Working Holiday Visa Delays Raise Regional Concerns
The Backpacker & Youth Tourism Advisory Panel has warned that visa-processing delays
and higher Working Holiday Maker fees could discourage young international travellers from
choosing Australia.
Why it matters: Regional parks relying on backpackers for cleaning, reception, hospitality
and seasonal work should prepare alternative recruitment options and raise concerns
through their industry associations.
Find out more – WYSE Travel Confederation
4. More of the Plenty Highway Has Been Sealed
A further 27-kilometre section of the Plenty Highway in Central Australia has been sealed.
The road forms part of the Outback Way linking Queensland, the Northern Territory and
Western Australia.
Why it matters: Parks and campgrounds along nearby touring routes can promote safer
access, update travel information and develop itineraries encouraging travellers to explore
beyond the major highways.
Find out more – Australian Government
5. Major Expansion Planned for Smithfield Mountain Bike Park
The Queensland Government plans to expand Smithfield Mountain Bike Park near Cairns
from approximately 25 kilometres of trails to more than 85 kilometres.
Why it matters: Nearby parks should consider secure bike storage, washdown facilities,
rider packages and partnerships with bike-hire businesses, guides and event organisers.
Find out more – Queensland Parks
6. Moreton Bay Establishes a Free Homeless Campsite
Moreton Bay Council has approved a 12-month trial creating 60 free registered campsites at
Wyllie Park in Petrie for people experiencing homelessness.
Why it matters: This highlights the growing connection between housing shortages and
camping facilities. Parks accommodating long-term residents should maintain clear policies
and stay engaged with councils and local support organisations.
7. Tourism Australia Strengthens Its First Nations Focus
Tourism Australia has released its sixth Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan, with increased
emphasis on authentic First Nations-led experiences, particularly in regional and remote
Australia.
Why it matters: Parks should explore genuine partnerships with First Nations tour
operators, cultural centres and local communities—not manufacture cultural experiences
without proper consultation.
Find out more – Tourism Australia
8. Victoria’s Best Parks Recognised
Tasman Holiday Parks – Bright was named Victoria’s Tourist and Mixed-Use Caravan Park
of the Year, while Amberlee Woodlands Estate received the leading residential park award.
Why it matters: The winners provide useful benchmarks in technology, sustainability,
premium accommodation, resident wellbeing and guest service.
9. Pacific Airshow Gold Coast Secured Until 2028
Queensland has locked in the Pacific Airshow Gold Coast through to 2028, with the 2028
event expected to generate approximately 97,000 visitor nights.
Why it matters: Gold Coast and surrounding parks can begin planning event packages,
minimum stays and targeted advertising well in advance.
Find out more – Queensland Government
10. Concerns Raised Over Limestone Coast Tourism Leadership
Wattle Range Mayor Des Noll has criticised the Limestone Coast Local Government
Association’s decision to step away from its regional tourism portfolio.
Why it matters: Local parks depend on coordinated destination marketing. Operators
should remain involved with councils and tourism bodies and advocate for continued
regional promotion.
Together, these stories reinforce one clear message: parks need to monitor developments
beyond their own front gates. Regulation, roads, staffing, events and regional marketing can
all directly influence the next booking and that being part of something bigger like members
of local tourism organizations or marketing groups like Kui Parks can make a major
difference in the success of your park.
