Fair Trading has invited public feedback on plans to overhaul the regulation arrangements governing the State’s Tow Truck industry.
Commissioner for FairTrading, Rose Webb said consultation was now open for the plans which were aimed at assisting and protecting consumers who might be in a vulnerable position after a car accident.
Ms Webb said the proposed Regulation and a Regulatory Impact Statement had been released for public comment and would be available until 29 August, with the current regulations set to be repealed in September 2020.
She said the new Regulation proposed consumers should be given an upfront quote for service, information on their rights at point of tow (including the right to refuse a tow for any reason) and where and who can carry out the service.
“The tow truck industry plays an integral role on our roads by providing vital services, and we must ensure our regulations are modern and fit-for-purpose,” Ms Webb said.
“The consultation is an opportunity for the public and key stakeholders to provide feedback on proposals that will help inform policymaking.”
She said that along with strengthened consumer protection, the key proposals included reducing red tape; modernising the provisions for holding yards and tow truck equipment; streamlining fee structures by changing the business hour requirements to reflect peak traffic and accident time periods in metropolitan Sydney.
She said the proposals also included exemptions for caravan owners, licensed mechanics and multi-deck car carriers from licensing requirements where they do not represent a risk to consumers and businesses.
The 65-page Regulatory Impact Statement can be accessed on the Fair Trading website at this PS News link.
