A
bitter dispute is unfolding in one Australian council over the issue of caravan owners parking their vehicles in residential areas. The Sunshine Coast Council has sought advice from the Queensland Government after residents launched a petition calling for stricter regulations on long-term and unsafe on-street parking.

    The petition, signed by over 1,000 disgruntled residents, argues that caravans parked on public streets for extended periods are reducing available parking spaces for locals and visitors. It also raises concerns about safety risks posed by large vehicles obstructing sightlines at intersections and impeding access to emergency services.

    While the council has asked the government for guidance, it's been told that local governments have the authority to regulate parking in their areas. The Queensland Government has handed back responsibility to the Sunshine Coast Council, which is now considering resolutions to address the issue.

    The caravan controversy has the potential to spread across Australia as more Baby Boomers take up a nomadic lifestyle, with over 9.5 million Australians aged 50 and above opting for caravans and motorhomes. This growing demographic, known as 'grey nomads', is bringing an increasing number of caravans into residential areas nationwide.