Easing requirements for bus and public transport operators

Vehicle inspection changes have now been introduced for public passenger transport service providers and light vehicle owners, through reforms announced by the Palaszczuk Government.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the changes were a win for public passenger transport service operators and other bus owners.

“Last week, we introduced an annual inspection requirement, removing the requirement for six-monthly inspections,” Mr Bailey said.

“This will provide greater flexibility and remove unnecessary regulatory burden for operators who require a Certificate of Inspection under the vehicle inspection program.

"These reforms are in recognition of the consistently high safety standards achieved by public passenger transport operators."

Mr Bailey said additional changes to the choice of inspection service provider for light vehicle owners would create business opportunities for regional and remote mechanical services.

“Under the reforms, all light vehicles and motorcycles up to 4.5 tonne that require a Certificate of Inspection, except for licensed tow trucks, now have the option to choose to have an inspection undertaken by the Department of Transport and Main Roads or an Approved Inspection Station,” he said.

“This gives vehicles owners a choice – allowing for better accessibility to an inspection whenever and wherever it’s required.

“These reforms align with programmed vehicle inspections for taxis, limousines, and booked hire vehicles that were introduced under the personalised transport services reforms in 2017, providing a level playing field for all.

“It also allows for vehicles garaged in a remote area, including heavy trucks and trailers, to have the same choice for an inspection. 

“The change will allow for inspections to be sourced from local businesses, especially in regional and remote areas where a government inspection centre may be quite far away.

“We’re supporting our industries and creating local job opportunities at a time when it’s needed most.”

Queensland Bus Industry Council Executive Director David Tape said the changes to Programmed Vehicle Inspection had been sought by the Council on behalf of the bus and coach industry.

“As a contributor to the consultation and engagement undertaken prior to the changes coming into effect, we are pleased to witness this significant change to the Programmed Vehicle Inspection regime,” Mr Tape said.

“The changes reduce the cost and provide flexibility and choice for bus operators.

We worked in partnership with the state government and the Department of Transport and Main Roads to deliver a great result for the bus and coach industry.”

The reforms will be implemented in two phases, with further changes to be announced early-2022.  

ENDS

Media contact: Courtney Thompson – 0433 585 570