The National Transport Commission (NTC) has invited public comment on the safe operation of driverless vehicles on Australia’s roads.
Releasing a new Regulation Impact Statement (RIS) for consultation, the Commission said it would welcome feedback on the possible roles and regulations different parties may be responsible for in the safe operation of automated vehicles.
Chief Executive of the NTC, Gillian Miles said the RIS considered the role of manufacturers, repairers, registered owners and others, in supporting the safety of automated vehicles. It also considered the legal arrangements needed to support their safe operation.
“The NTC wants to hear from interested parties, particularly those in manufacturing, repairs and road safety groups,” Dr Miles said.
“It is important to be proactive in developing nationally-consistent laws and regulations.”
She said the RIS followed earlier work by NTC on regulation for automated vehicles entering the Australian market.
“In November 2018 Australia’s Transport Ministers agreed that anyone seeking to bring these vehicles to market must self-certify against safety criteria,” Dr Miles said.
“Ministers also agreed that Australia would develop a new purpose-built national law to regulate the on-road operation of automated vehicles.
“The consultation is the first step in delivering this.”
Consultation closes on 26 August with the NTC to analyse feedback and formulate recommendations to present to Ministers in May 2020.
The Commission’s 158-page RIS can be accessed at this PS News link and more information is available on the NTC website at this link.
