Show organizers target dodgy importers

A tough new compliance program designed for Australian manufacturers is being used to stamp out non-compliant imports offered for sale at local caravan shows.

RVM Australia CEO David Duncan, said a shortened version of its comprehensive new RVMAP ‘checklist’ is being used by show organizers to crack down on dodgy importers and ensure a ‘level playing field’ across the Australian RV industry.

Following shows in Perth and Adelaide adopting RVMAP earlier this year, the Caravan Industry Association of Victoria (CIAV) is about to sign off on an agreement with RVM Australia to introduce the strict new audit process at its Melbourne Leisurefest show in early October.

CIAV boss Rob Lucas is currently writing to all Leisurefest exhibitors to explain the new compliance regime designed to “streamline the process and make it more user-friendly” for exhibitors selling RVs at the show.

“We will be using (RVM Australia’s) services to ensure product in the show is compliant,” he said.

“We are doing it a little bit different to everybody else, so (the CIAV) decided to run it as a pilot so we can evaluate it.

“That’s not to say we’re not committed, because as you know we already have a pretty tough compliant regime here in Victoria. So our attitude is not going to change, but how we do it will.”

The CIAV introduced tougher rules for show exhibitors about 18 months ago, requiring manufacturers and importers to supply a range of compliance documentation for at least one display model. For importers, this included certification from an independent engineer to ensure adherence with all relevant Australian regulations and standards.

The CTIAV also conducted random audits on other display models as a further back-up.

“In 18 months we’ve found probably only about four (non-compliant) RV products. Generally everyone’s compliant because they know we’re looking (with the random audits),” he said.

In the past display models found non-compliant have either had a ‘Not for sale’ sign put on them or been removed from the show.

Lucas said non-compliance, particularly among imported RVs, is an on-going issue that needs to be addressed to protect the interests of consumers as well as show organisers and the industry in general.

“We have no philosophical problem with imports as long as you meet the requirements and the only way at the moment, with the compliance regime at a national level, is to control it through the shows,” he said.

Duncan said he hoped all major RV shows in each state would adopt RVMAP, with the aim to eventually be able to ‘check off’ every RV model displayed by an exhibitor.

RVM Australia has developed a specific show compliance checklist that although not as thorough as RVMAP’s full 146-item checklist “certainly covers all the safety aspects that need to be addressed”.