Leading caravan insurer CIL supports safer journeys through a new generation of skilled repairers
Australia’s leading caravan and RV insurer CIL (part of Suncorp) recently collaborated with TAFE Queensland and Caravanning Queensland to donate a caravan for training future repair professionals across the state.
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In 2019, CIL, in collaboration with Caravanning Queensland, donated two written-off caravans to automotive students at TAFE Queensland and Tow-Ed Queensland.
At that time, there were no specialised training courses available for caravan repairers and assessors, but the initiative led to the establishment of four-year apprenticeships in Recreational Vehicle Service & Repair and Recreational Vehicle Manufacturing.
The CIL caravan donation provided hands-on experience for trainees in the program, ensuring a skilled workforce for the industry that is better equipped to support caravan insurance customers.
High school students participating in Certificate II in Engineering pathways could also gain valuable hands-on experience to prepare them for future apprenticeship opportunities.
Today, TAFE Queensland supports approximately 100 apprentices at various stages across both qualifications.
Suncorp’s Head of Niche and Commercial Customer Service, Carolyn Parrella, said: “At CIL, our mission has always been to help our customers make the most of their caravan adventures.
“Supporting TAFE Queensland is an extension of that commitment—by building a strong caravan repair industry, we’re ensuring safer journeys and a new generation of skilled repairers."
Suncorp Head of Niche and Commercial Customer Service, Carolyn Parrella
We’re proud of our role in providing peace of mind to Australian caravanners. Our ongoing partnerships help raise the standard of training, so owners can trust that repairs to their vehicles are in expert hands.
Evolving the program to support modern caravan design and features
Since the initial donation in 2019, caravan design has evolved; it's modernised to include features like advanced off-grid electrical systems, solar arrays, upgraded water systems and improved components for off-road capability. Their materials have also modernised, such as new fibreglass and composite construction materials aimed at reducing the overall weight of the caravan.
In collaboration with Jason Plant, CEO of Caravanning QLD, CIL donated a newer model fibreglass van in early 2025. This donation enabled TAFE Queensland to continue providing specialised training opportunities for students aspiring to enter the industry.
CIL Business Development Manager Qld, Lorraine Cash and National Business Development Manager Michael Porter helped facilitate the donation earlier this year through Suncorp's Specialist Claims team.
Lorraine explained: “It’s very important that we invest back in the industry so that our CIL customers know we're not just there for claims. We're also ensuring that when there is a claim, they've got the best, most skilled people on the job to manage their repairs and get them back on the road safely.”
Changing lifestyles and demographics influencing caravan and RC ownership
Caravanning is growing in popularity among young Australian families and couples. According to Tourism Research Australia data, 2024 was a record-breaking year for caravan and camping trips.
Queensland has the largest combined fleet of caravans and campervans in Australia. As the leading caravan insurer in Australia, CIL is ready to help customers stay safe on their adventures on and off-road.
Lorraine explained: “We are seeing more young couples who are trying to save for their own home but still want to have a holiday. Camper trailers and hybrid caravans are becoming more popular within Queensland."
CIL Business Development Manager Qld, Lorraine Cash
CIL has covered caravans, motorhomes and camper trailers for 63 years; we're specialists in the area.
We’ve listened to what the customers wanted over the years, so when they get a policy with CIL, they're getting peace of mind of knowing that there's always someone who cares about their safety just a phone call away.
An upskilled repairer network helps ensure caravan and RV customer safety
With many new caravan drivers on the roads each year, safety is more important than ever to the CIL team. The team proudly sponsor Tow-Ed Queensland which provides towing, 4WD and trip preparation courses.
“It's horrific when you look at all the accidents that happen on the road with caravans and camping trailers. We try and make it the best possible experience for everyone, but that’s why partnership programs like this are so important.
"We are upskilling and future proofing the next generation of repairers to support our customers when they need them the most."
CIL Business Development Manager Qld, Lorraine Cash
Students getting hands on experience means better qualifications and an increase in technical expertise for the repairers of tomorrow. Which means a higher level of safety all round. There’s a big opportunity in the industry to continue to partner with teachers, students, TAFEs and high schools.
Caravanning Qld CEO Jason Plant shares CIL’s long-term vision for the partnership. Jason said: "The collaboration between CIL, TAFE Queensland and Caravanning QLD has been instrumental in supporting training within a growing RV industry.
“With CIL’s continued investment, we can prepare the next generation of repairers and manufacturers to deliver the highest standards of quality and safety for caravanners across the state."
CIL is proud to support these partnerships to enhance the quality of training programs, so that Australian caravanners can be increasingly assured of the standard of repairs performed on their vehicles.
