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Time to rethink costs to consumers

30 August 2019

 

Roadworthiness rules fail the common sense test. 

I’m a classic car tragic.

As a kid, I remember being driven around in the family’s Wolseley sedan. It wasn’t a classic at the time but today it’s a minor collector’s item. So, my interest is always piqued when I hear an older car’s backstory.

One I came across recently is the Elfin GTS Coupe, built in Adelaide in 1960 for a Melbourne enthusiast. It was so complicated and expensive to build it remained unique, but the man who commissioned the car still owns it almost 60 years later. Incredibly, the GTS Coupe is also road registered.

Now, I know nothing of this car’s condition but, having never changed hands, it’s possible the GTS Coupe has never had a roadworthy inspection.

I don’t have a problem with older cars, but this highlights a ridiculous piece of legislation currently enacted in Victoria that adds to the cost of all new vehicles.

When manufacturers build vehicles for sale in Australia they’re required to meet Australian Design Rules and be certified for road use.

However, when that vehicle is sold in Victoria it must be submitted for a roadworthy inspection, even if it’s travelled zero kilometres.

That’s ridiculous.

On the other hand, a vehicle that’s been in one individual’s ownership for decades may fly under the radar. It’s strange the Victorian State Government allows this anomaly to occur.

New vehicles shouldn’t require a roadworthy, but I reckon a roadworthy inspection on all vehicles over five years of age is a good idea.

 

What do you think?

 

Words: VACC CEO, Geoff Gwilym. As featured in the Herald Sun 30 August 2019.

 

 

 

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