Crime and safety within caravan populations: an Australian survey

Caravanning and camping are popular leisure pastimes in most Western countries, particularly Australia. In fact caravan and camping has been the fastest growing domestic tourism sector in Australia over the past 10 years. This is in stark contrast to the overall slump in domestic tourism particularly since the economic downturn of 2008 (CCIA 2010). Caravanning and camping provide the freedom to tour at one's own leisure, access to prime locations and camaraderie with like-minded people. Most importantly these activities are affordable. In Australia, families form 60 per cent of the market, with many leasing a caravan site on a semi-permanent basis for weekend and annual holidays. Seniors, those over the age of 55, account for 21 per cent of the market. This group comprises cashed-up retirees or pensioners commonly known as 'Grey Nomads' and their numbers are increasing. Some circle Australia several times and their recreational vehicle becomes their permanent home. A further 7 per cent of the market is international tourists mostly from the UK, Germany and other European countries (CCIA 2010). Little is known about safety and security within these populations.