BIG4 Holiday Parks has reached a significant milestone, with its national network now comprising 300 holiday parks across Australia. The announcement was made this month and marks continued expansion for the group, which began in 1979 as a cooperative of four park owners in Ballarat, Victoria.
Over the decades, the organisation has grown to encompass a broad range of destinations, including coastal retreats, regional towns, and outback locations, while retaining its roots in member-based ownership.
Chief Executive Officer Sean Jenner said the milestone is a reflection of the brand’s resilience and the efforts of the network’s partners.
“Reaching 300 parks is a proud moment for the BIG4 community. It’s a testament to our long-standing commitment to quality, friendly service, and delivering memorable stays to millions of visitors,” Jenner told Australasian Leisure Management.
While the announcement celebrates scale, Jenner emphasised the broader impact of the group’s expansion.
“This isn’t just a number to us—it’s 300 local communities we’re proud to be part of, 300 places where memories are made, and 300 opportunities to deliver what we believe are the best holiday experiences in Australia.”
Founded more than four decades ago, BIG4 has evolved alongside Australia’s domestic travel market. The network includes both BIG4-branded holiday parks and an increasing number of Partner Parks available through BIG4.com.au.
This flexible structure allows a wider variety of park operators to access the group’s marketing, booking systems, and brand support while maintaining operational independence.
For business owners in the outdoor hospitality industry, this milestone underscores the potential benefits of cooperative models, particularly in how they can combine national visibility with local identity.
BIG4’s ability to scale while preserving its independent park ownership model may offer a compelling example for smaller operators considering affiliation or strategic partnerships.
In particular, the organisation’s role in promoting regional travel aligns with ongoing efforts by many park owners to attract domestic visitors beyond metropolitan hubs.
BIG4’s continued focus on caravanning, camping, glamping, and cabin accommodation reflects the growing diversification of guest preferences and suggests there is room within the broader market for niche and upscale offerings.
With domestic travel still a strong performer and regional visitation on the rise, the BIG4 model presents a case study in how legacy operators can remain competitive in a changing landscape.