SIMPLER LAWS FOR SAFER VEHICLES

The Parliament has passed laws to help consumers choose safer vehicles, Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack says.

“We wanted to update and simplify the regulatory system so it is flexible and responsive to support the future of road vehicles in Australia, particularly as advances in technology change how and what we drive,” Mr McCormack said.

The most important set of changes to the Australian Government’s regulation of road vehicles in almost three decades, Mr McCormack said consumers will have more choice when it comes to types of cars that are brought in to Australia and will have greater assurances their vehicles are safe.

“By establishing a network of approved corporations to give consumers and manufacturers greater confidence of their safety on vehicles, these new laws are common sense changes, especially for specialist and enthusiast vehicles,” Mr McCormack said.

“It also gives businesses and manufacturers clarity for product recall for vehicles.”

The new laws will streamline the supply of mainstream (full volume) new vehicles; establish a register of approved vehicles – an online, publicly accessible database to assist with compliance and enforcement of national vehicle standards; and provide greater clarity around recall powers and responsibilities for all vehicle classes.

Mr McCormack thanked industry for its engagement with the process of updating the regulations.

“This has been achieved after five years of work and consultation with industry, including ensuring existing businesses will be able to continue supplying vehicles under their existing approvals until late 2020,” Mr McCormack said.

“It is the culmination of much hard work, which is yet another step to help get Australians home sooner and safer, no matter where they live.”

Further details on the implementation of the Road Vehicle Standards legislation are available at: www.infrastructure.gov.au/vehicles/mv_standards_act.