With the cost of living and housing prices continuing to soar, more and more Aussies look for creative ways to keep a roof over their heads.

For many, the humble caravan has become a lifeline in the face of Australia's ongoing housing crisis.

As councils across the country tighten their rules on van life, one regional council decided to make things easier for their locals to find a place to stay.


Lockyer Valley's Regional Council, located west of Brisbane, announced a significant change to its caravan laws.

Under the new rules, people could now live in a caravan on a family member's or a friend's property for up to six months.

This rule should apply within 12 months and would not require any council approval.

This arrangement may continue at least until the end of 2027.


Prior to this rule change, the only way people could legally live in a caravan was if they were building or renovating their actual home.

Now, this new rule should open the doors for more accessible, affordable accommodations.

'While the state and federal governments carry the responsibility for meeting housing demand, allowing for the temporary use of caravans is a practical step local governments can take,' Cheryl Steinhardt, the council's Regulatory Services Councillor, stated.

'Not only does it benefit people waiting for a rental to become available or for a property to settle, it also supports people doing it tough.'


With the introduction of these new rules, there are some conditions tenants and caravan owners need to keep in mind.

First, the property where the caravan should be parked must have a residential dwelling with access to water, a toilet, and a shower.

Second, the caravan cannot be crammed with more people.

Lastly, occupants need to respect the property's boundaries set by the owner.

How does this compare to other states?

Not all councils are as flexible as Lockyer Valley.

Many councils across Australia have had restrictions, which made it harder for people to live in caravans.

New South Wales

Individuals could live in a caravan on private land if they are part of the main household.

Last year, the state government considered requiring council approval if the van was hooked up to electricity or water for more than six months or if the caravan was larger than 20 square metres.

Queensland

Rules may vary from council to council.

Generally, short-term stays in caravans on private land are allowed if individuals have family members or friends in the area.

Lockyer Valley's approach should help clear up confusion for locals.


According to the 2021 Census, more than 58,000 Australians have lived in caravans, cabins, or houseboats.

With the housing crisis getting worse, the number may have gotten higher over the years.

For many, caravans offer a flexible, affordable alternative to traditional housing, especially for those on a fixed income or waiting for a rental property to become available.

Caravans can also offer a sense of independence and community, especially for Australians who might not want a large home.

Of course, living in a caravan is not always easy.

There are practical challenges—like finding a safe, legal place to park, accessing water and power, and dealing with the weather.

With councils and state governments changing the rules about caravan living, it can be hard to know where renters stand.

For those considering caravan living, it's essential to check the rules per state and area.

Yet, with more councils like Lockyer Valley recognising the need for flexible, affordable housing options, there's hope that other regions might follow suit.
Have you ever lived in a caravan or considered it a housing option? Should other councils follow Lockyer Valley's lead? We would love to read your thoughts about this council's move in the comments section below!