The federal government has announced a review of its design rules that could have a lasting impact on the models and makeup of the future car parc.
Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Catherine King this week announced a review of the Australian Design Rules, the legislated road vehicle standards including safety and emissions, led by Dr Warren Mundy.
Leading motoring industry advocate MTAA CEO Matt Hobbs says it is encouraged by the appointment of Dr Warren Mundy, whose extensive experience in the transport sector will bring valuable insights to the review.
Competitive and safe
“Dr Mundy will bring a fresh perspective to regulatory frameworks that have traditionally served not only safety and emissions goals but also protected local manufacturing,” Hobbs says.
“We commend the Government for committing to an independent review of the ADRs which will contribute to a competitive and safe market for all consumers.”
He says the review presents a timely opportunity to evaluate whether these standards are still necessary or if more efficient, globally aligned alternatives could streamline production without compromising safety or environmental goals.
“We fully support this review as an opportunity to address outdated regulatory barriers that hinder the adoption of new technologies, especially electric vehicles,” Hobbs says. “Aligning Australian standards with international best practices will create a more competitive market and accelerate our nation’s transition to a sustainable future.”
In a statement Minister King said the review would include considering regulatory barriers to the supply of electric vehicles to the Australian market.
Overcoming barriers
The Australian Design Rules ensure that all new and used road vehicles being provided to the Australian market for the first time meet critical national standards for safety, anti-theft and emissions.
“This independent review will analyse ADRs and assess their alignment with international standards to identify opportunities for improvement and for the removal of unnecessary barriers,” it noted.
The intention is to see how internationally harmonised standards can support choice and price outcomes for consumers, productivity and technology innovation in the vehicle and related sectors, and the net zero transition, the statement said.
It also wants to see what impact the process has on the speed at which new vehicles come to market and how this could be harmonised.
Calls for change
Automotive industry advocates including the MTAA have long argued that unique Australian design rules such as the requirement for top tethers for all passenger seats have acted as barriers to OEM’s due to the costly adaptation needed to alter vehicles for the Australian market.
Car giant Mitsubishi has also called for reform to Australia’s design rules to allow more models into the country and achieve the aims of the new emissions scheme.
Thew next step will be gathering feedback from the automotive industry and other stakeholders including road safety advocates
Submissions are open until 24 January 2025.
Dr Warren Mundy extensive experience in transport safety-critical businesses, including Melbourne Airport, Infratil Airports Europe and Airservices Australia – where he served on the safety committee.
To find out more visit ADR Harmonisation Review 2024-25 | Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts