Victorian caravan parks back in business

Victoria has joined most of the rest of the country in lifting the ban on short-term RV travellers staying at campgrounds and caravan parks -- as long as they don't use any shared facilities like bathrooms or camp kitchens.

A relaxation of coronavirus pandemic restrictions in Victoria means overnights stays and RV holidays will be back on from the first day of winter (June 1), along with gatherings of up to 20 people and re-opening of schools, and places like swimming pools and pubs and restaurants (for up to 20 people) across Victoria.

The move means Tasmania remains the only state or territory yet to announce firm timing of a re-opening of caravan parks and campgrounds to holidaymakers.

Unlike many other countries, Australia seems to have contained the coronavirus spread, with just three cases reported nationally, in the past 24 hours, on March 25.

Cross-border travel restrictions remain in place, meaning the great winter migration north will have to wait for many Victorian and NSW-based grey nomads.

The 180-strong BIG4 holiday park chain welcomed the Victorian Government announcement, although some parks reported phones "ringing off the hook" as its online booking system was not up and running.

"We're excited to announce that our parks in Victoria are reopening. Check individual park pages for more info. Book now and don't miss out," BIG4 said on social media.

"Cabins with own bathrooms, ensuite sites, and caravans with own facilities will be permitted. Camp kitchens and shared bathrooms will be closed."

State Health Minister Jenny Mikakos urged Victorians with itchy feet to "Play it safe".

"We still have a long way to go, and I need to stress that. We still want to emphasise to people the virus is still out there, it's highly contagious, people can still catch it," she said.

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