Legislation tabled to improve protections for long-term caravan park residents

The Rockliff Liberal Government is delivering significant and important reforms for long-term residents in caravan parks, with the introduction of the Residential Parks Bill 2026 today.

Minister for Small Business, Trade and Consumer Affairs, Guy Barnett, said the Bill will provide clear legal rights and protections for long-term caravan park residents.

“We have acted to ensure that there will be protections in place for long-term residents. and fair and transparent rules for park owners,” Minister Barnett said.

“This has been a complex and major reform and I want to thank all of those who have participated so constructively in the development of this legislation.

“Our Government is determined to ensure that residents are protected, and I am very pleased to be delivering this important reform for Tasmania.

“This Bill delivers balanced, fair and modern reforms that support residents and park owners, recognising the role these parks play in housing affordability and the visitor economy.

“It is important we get the balance right, providing much-needed protections for residents while also ensuring operators can continue to provide the parks and services that so many Tasmanians and visitors across the State enjoy.”

Liberal Member for Rosevears, Jo Palmer, said it was an honour to work with and advocate for the Beauty Point community.

“Together, we have worked hard to deliver this important outcome for the residents.

“This is a huge win for the Beauty Point community and the residents.”

The reforms include:

• Improving fundamental rights for park residents, including secure occupation, quiet enjoyment, 24-hour access to essential facilities, a clean and well-maintained park, and fair rules for alterations and owner entry—while setting clear obligations for care, behaviour, and guest responsibility
• Clear responsibilities for park residents, including keeping sites clean, respecting neighbours, paying rent on time, following park rules, and ensuring guests behave appropriately- helping maintain safe, fair and well-managed communities
• Strengthening protections for residents by banning unfair fees, capping bonds at four weeks’ rent, setting clear rules for rent increases and refunds, and ensuring transparency in utility charges
• Providing the Tasmanian Civil & Administrative Tribunal (TASCAT) clear powers to resolve park disputes quickly and fairly-covering compliance, compensation, agreement changes, and possession orders-while protecting residents from retaliatory action.