Caravan Industry Association of Australia acknowledges the Federal Government’s review into the transitioning to EVs and urges Government to not forget about caravans.

As the nation’s largest remaining sovereign vehicle manufacturer, the caravan industry plays a crucial role in Australia’s automotive landscape.  Despite the economic challenges over the last 18 months, the sector still sits above pre-pandemic manufacturing levels, further signalling the sustained velocity of the industry.

The Federal Government’s inquiry must recognise the unique challenges and opportunities facing our sector, especially in light of the closures of iconic manufacturers like Holden and Ford.  As an industry, it stands as a significant contributor to the Australian economy.

Caravanning means a $27.3 Billion contribution to GDP, employer of over 60,000 people and the linchpin to thousands of ancillary businesses across the country.  The broad dispersal of Australians who use our industry product also means significant regional and rural economic implications should the industry contract in coming years due to lack of recognition.  Its sustainability is vital to prevent a repeat of these historical industry closures.

Caravan Industry Association of Australia CEO, Stuart Lamont, said “As an industry we have shown significant resiliency over the last few years, we have also demonstrated the love affair Australian’s have with the caravan and what it means to our way of life.”

“We welcomed the announcement of the EV transition in September of 2022, to date there has been little flow on of information or strategy about how it is achieved.  Selecting a technology has meant the industry has needed to turn its thinking on its head and look at what electrification means for towed product.”

“Unfortunately, there are a number of opportunities with the transition.  All of them take significant change of tact, collaboration, and capital investment to shift an industry.  Currently, without greater collaboration, consultation and capital the industry faces a potential future to that of Holden and Ford,” said Stuart.

Caravan Industry Association of Australia is actively collaborating with the government through various committees to ensure that our industry’s needs are addressed in the EV transition.  Primary initiatives include:

• Collaborative Industry Innovation – ensuring transition innovations are shared across all aligned industries.
• Sustainability Initiatives
• Pursuit of Net Zero and a decarbonised industry
• Suitable charging infrastructure for towed product (particularly across regional Australia)

This inquiry, focusing on the establishment of resources, systems, and infrastructure for EVs, aligns closely with the peak bodies vision for a sustainable and innovative automotive sector in Australia as well as a booming regional visitor economy.

The caravan industry’s transition to EV-compatible models is not just about adopting new technologies; it’s about preserving a significant part of Australia’s manufacturing heritage and ensuring its growth in the future.  The Federal Government’s inquiry into the EV transition is a crucial step towards this, and we as the peak body for the industry is committed to working together with the government to make this transition successful.

“With our submission into the review we will be urging the government to consider the unique position and needs of the caravan industry in this transition.  Supporting our sector will not only sustain regional communities but will preserve manufacturing jobs and know-how to ensure Australia remains at the forefront of innovative and sustainable vehicle manufacturing,” said Stuart.

All information provided by the Caravan Industry Association of Australia.