Legislative changes to give teens more ID

Young people aged 15 and older will soon be able to obtain proof-of-age cards under legislative changes being introduced in Queensland Parliament today.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Transport Jackie Trad introduced a range of amendments to existing statutes in the Transport and Other Legislation Amendment Bill (TLAB).

“These changes are all about streamlining existing rules and regulations as well as providing clearer understanding of their requirements,” Ms Trad said.

“The move to give young people between 15 and 17 proof-of-age cards recognises the changing needs of millennials, particularly in being able to access bank accounts and phone contracts.

“We will also reduce red tape for Queenslanders who utilise Transport and Main Roads centres.

“We will do this through removing the requirement for customers to complete applications forms for a number of services including license and registration renewal.

“A targeted trial will begin in the second half of 2017 before it is expanded.

“This is a contemporary way of conducting business and not only saves time for the customer but reduces transaction times for customer service centre staff.”

Ms Trad said the amendment bill also made a number of changes fields from regulation of dangerous goods, transport of commercial vessel rules and driver authorisation. 

“The Transport portfolio is an extensive and diverse field whose regulatory requirements impact almost all Queenslanders at some stage in their personal and working life,” Ms Trad said.

“Therefore it’s essential the rules we live by are regularly reviewed and amended where required to reflect our modern world.”    

The Bill will be debated later this year.

ENDS

Media contact: Anna Jabour 0429 890 942