National Transport Commission (Road Transport Legislation Heavy Vehicle Standards Regulations) Regulations 2006 (Cth)
National Transport Commission (Road Transport Legislation—Heavy Vehicle Standards Regulations) Regulations 2006
Select Legislative Instrument No. 25, 2006
made under the
National Transport Commission Act 2003
Compilation No. 2
Compilation date: 5 March 2016
Includes amendments up to: F2016L00170
Registered: 26 July 2016
About this compilation
This compilation
This is a compilation of the National Transport Commission (Road Transport Legislation—Heavy Vehicle Standards Regulations) Regulations 2006 that shows the text of the law as amended and in force on 5 March 2016 (the compilation date).
The notes at the end of this compilation (the endnotes) include information about amending laws and the amendment history of provisions of the compiled law.
Uncommenced amendments
The effect of uncommenced amendments is not shown in the text of the compiled law. Any uncommenced amendments affecting the law are accessible on the Legislation Register ( The details of amendments made up to, but not commenced at, the compilation date are underlined in the endnotes. For more information on any uncommenced amendments, see the series page on the Legislation Register for the compiled law.
Application, saving and transitional provisions for provisions and amendments
If the operation of a provision or amendment of the compiled law is affected by an application, saving or transitional provision that is not included in this compilation, details are included in the endnotes.
Editorial changes
For more information about any editorial changes made in this compilation, see the endnotes.
Modifications
If the compiled law is modified by another law, the compiled law operates as modified but the modification does not amend the text of the law. Accordingly, this compilation does not show the text of the compiled law as modified. For more information on any modifications, see the series page on the Legislation Register for the compiled law.
Self‑repealing provisions
If a provision of the compiled law has been repealed in accordance with a provision of the law, details are included in the endnotes.
Contents
1............ Name of Regulations.......................................................................... 1
2............ Commencement.................................................................................. 1
3............ Road transport legislation—heavy vehicle standards........................ 1
Schedule 1—Text of the Road Transport Reform (Heavy Vehicle Standards) Regulations 2
Endnotes93
Endnote 1—About the endnotes 93
Endnote 2—Abbreviation key 94
Endnote 3—Legislation history 95
Endnote 4—Amendment history 96
1Name of Regulations
These Regulations are the National Transport Commission (Road Transport Legislation—Heavy Vehicle Standards Regulations) Regulations 2006.
2Commencement
These Regulations commence on the day after they are registered.
3Road transport legislation—heavy vehicle standards
For section 7 of the National Transport Commission Act 2003 (the NTC Act), Schedule 1 sets out road transport legislation, in the form of Regulations, about the design and construction of heavy vehicles.
Note 1:The road transport legislation set out in Schedule 1 does not have the force of law (see paragraph 7(2)(a) of the NTC Act).
Note 2:These Regulations must be made in accordance with the Agreement (see subparagraph 3(b)(ii) of the NTC Act).
Note 3:These Regulations are not subject to disallowance—see regulations made for the purposes of paragraph 44(2)(b) of the Legislation Act 2003.
Note 4:These Regulations are not subject to sunsetting—see regulations made for the purposes of paragraph 54(2)(b) of the Legislation Act 2003.
Note 5:The text set out in Schedule 1 is that of the Road Transport Reform (Heavy Vehicle Standards) Regulations (Statutory Rules 1995 No. 55). It has been formatted in accordance with current drafting practice (including styles of provision numbering and cross‑referencing). Those Regulations were approved in draft form by the Ministerial Council for Road Transport on 10 November 1993.
Note 6:The making of the Road Transport Reform (Heavy Vehicle Standards) Regulations was notified in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette on 29 March 1995. No date was ever fixed under subregulation 2(2) of those Regulations.
Schedule 1—Text of the Road Transport Reform (Heavy Vehicle Standards) Regulations
(regulation 3)
Contents
1............ Title.................................................................................................... 7
2............ Commencement.................................................................................. 7
3............ Purpose............................................................................................... 7
4............ Interpretation...................................................................................... 7
5............ Application of Heavy Vehicle Standards........................................... 8
5A......... Exceptions to application of Heavy Vehicle Standards..................... 8
6............ Vehicles and combinations to be properly maintained...................... 8
7............ Exemption from Heavy Vehicle Standards........................................ 9
8............ Failure of a motor vehicle to comply with Heavy Vehicle Standards 9
9............ Failure of a trailer to comply with Heavy Vehicle Standards.......... 10
10.......... Failure of a combination of vehicles to comply with Heavy Vehicle Standards 10
11.......... Penalty for an offence....................................................................... 10
12.......... Failure to comply with certain exemptions...................................... 10
13.......... Application of Criminal Code.......................................................... 11
14.......... Prescribed persons—delegation....................................................... 11
Schedule—Heavy vehicle standards 12
Part 1—Application of ADRs 13
1.1......... Compliance with second edition ADRs........................................... 13
1.2......... Compliance with third edition ADRs............................................... 13
1.3......... Limitations on application of the ADRs........................................... 13
1.4......... Additional equipment on vehicles.................................................... 14
1.5......... Compliance with later editions of standards.................................... 14
Part 2—General safety requirements 15
2.1......... Steering............................................................................................. 15
2.2......... Turning ability.................................................................................. 15
2.3......... Ability to travel backwards and forwards........................................ 15
2.4......... External or internal protrusions........................................................ 15
2.5......... Driver’s view and control of vehicle................................................ 16
2.6......... Seating.............................................................................................. 16
2.7......... Mudguards and spray suppression................................................... 16
2.8......... Horns and alarms.............................................................................. 17
2.9......... Rear‑vision mirrors........................................................................... 17
2.10....... Automatic transmissions.................................................................. 18
2.11....... Diesel engines................................................................................... 18
2.12....... Bonnet securing devices................................................................... 18
2.13....... Electrical wiring, connections and installations............................... 19
2.14....... Television and visual display units.................................................. 19
2.15....... Windscreens and windows............................................................... 19
2.16....... Window tinting................................................................................. 20
2.17....... Windscreen wipers and washers....................................................... 20
2.18....... Wheels and tyres.............................................................................. 21
2.19....... Tyre tread......................................................................................... 22
Part 3—Vehicle marking 23
3.1......... Vehicle and engine identification numbers...................................... 23
3.2......... White or silver band on certain vehicles.......................................... 23
3.3......... Warning signs for combinations of vehicles more than 22 metres long 23
3.4......... When warning signs not to be displayed.......................................... 24
3.5......... Specifications for warning signs...................................................... 24
3.6......... Left hand drive signs........................................................................ 25
Part 4—Vehicle configuration and dimensions 26
Division 1—Axles 26
4.1......... Axle configuration............................................................................ 26
4.2......... Relation between axles in an axle group.......................................... 27
Division 2—Dimensions 28
4.4......... Width................................................................................................ 28
4.5......... Length of single motor vehicles....................................................... 28
4.6......... Length of single trailers.................................................................... 28
4.7......... Length of combinations of vehicles................................................. 29
4.8......... Rear overhang................................................................................... 29
4.9......... Trailer drawbar length...................................................................... 30
4.10....... Height............................................................................................... 30
4.11....... Ground clearance.............................................................................. 30
Division 3—Additional requirements for a converter dolly 32
4.12....... Axle arrangement on a converter dolly............................................ 32
4.13....... Construction of a converter dolly..................................................... 32
4.14....... Converter dolly coupling.................................................................. 32
4.15....... Converter dolly suspension.............................................................. 32
Part 5—Lights and reflectors 33
Division 1—General requirements for lights 33
5.1......... Prevention of glare........................................................................... 33
5.2......... Pairs of lights.................................................................................... 33
Division 2—Headlights 34
5.3......... Headlights to be fitted to a vehicle................................................... 34
5.4......... How should headlights be fitted?..................................................... 34
5.5......... Performance of headlights................................................................ 34
5.6......... Effective range of headlights............................................................ 34
5.7......... Changing headlights from high‑beam to low‑beam position........... 34
Division 3—Parking lights 36
5.8......... Parking lights.................................................................................... 36
Division 4—Daytime running lights 37
5.9......... Daytime running lights..................................................................... 37
Division 5—Tail lights 38
5.10....... Tail lights.......................................................................................... 38
5.11....... Pattern of fitting tail lights................................................................ 38
5.12....... Performance of tail lights................................................................. 39
5.13....... Wiring of tail lights.......................................................................... 39
Division 6—Number‑plate lights 40
5.14....... Number‑plate lights.......................................................................... 40
Division 7—Clearance lights 41
5.15....... Front clearance lights....................................................................... 41
5.16....... External cabin lights......................................................................... 41
5.17....... Rear clearance lights........................................................................ 41
Division 8—Side marker lights 43
5.18....... Which vehicles need side marker lights?......................................... 43
5.19....... Location of side marker lights.......................................................... 43
5.20....... Performance of side marker lights.................................................... 44
5.21....... Side marker lights and rear clearance lights..................................... 44
Division 9—Brake lights 45
5.22....... Fitting brake lights............................................................................ 45
5.23....... Performance and operation of brake lights....................................... 46
Division 10—Reversing lights 47
5.24....... Reversing lights................................................................................ 47
Division 11—Direction indicator lights 48
5.25....... Direction indicator lights on a motor vehicle................................... 48
5.26....... Direction indicator lights on a trailer............................................... 48
5.27....... Location of direction indicator lights............................................... 48
5.28....... Operation and visibility of direction indicator lights....................... 48
Division 12—Fog lights 50
5.29....... Front fog lights................................................................................. 50
5.30....... Rear fog lights.................................................................................. 50
Division 13—Interior lights 51
5.31....... Interior lights.................................................................................... 51
Division 14—Reflectors generally 52
5.32....... General requirements for reflectors.................................................. 52
Division 15—Reflectors at the back of a vehicle 53
5.33....... Rear reflectors.................................................................................. 53
Division 16—Reflectors on the side of a vehicle 54
5.34....... Compulsory side reflectors on pole‑type trailers............................. 54
5.35....... Optional side‑facing reflectors......................................................... 54
Division 17—Front reflectors 55
5.36....... Compulsory front reflectors on trailers............................................ 55
5.37....... Optional front reflectors................................................................... 55
Division 18—Other lights, rear marking plates or reflectors 56
5.38....... Additional lights and reflectors........................................................ 56
5.39....... Rear marking plates.......................................................................... 56
Part 6—Braking systems 58
Division 1—Brake requirements for all vehicles 58
6.1......... Parts of a braking system.................................................................. 58
6.2......... Provision for wear............................................................................ 59
6.3......... Supply of air or vacuum to brakes.................................................... 59
6.4......... Performance of braking systems...................................................... 59
Division 2—Motor vehicle braking systems 61
6.5......... What braking system must a motor vehicle have?........................... 61
6.6......... Operation of brakes on motor vehicles............................................. 61
6.7......... Air or vacuum brakes on motor vehicles.......................................... 61
Division 3—Trailer braking systems 63
6.8......... What brakes must a trailer have?..................................................... 63
6.9......... Operation of brakes on a trailer........................................................ 63
6.10....... Air or vacuum brakes on a trailer..................................................... 63
Division 4—Additional brake requirements for B‑doubles and long road trains 64
6.11....... Application to road trains more than 19 metres long....................... 64
6.12....... Braking system design for a prime mover in a B‑double................. 64
6.13....... Braking system design for a motor vehicle in a road train............... 64
6.14....... Braking system design for a trailer in a B‑double or a road train.... 64
6.15....... Air brakes of a motor vehicle in a B‑double or road train............... 65
6.16....... Air brakes in a B‑double or road train: least favoured chamber...... 65
6.17....... Recovery of air pressure for brakes in a B‑double or road train...... 66
6.18....... Air supply for brakes in a B‑double or road train............................ 66
6.19....... Brake line couplings......................................................................... 66
6.20....... Simultaneous parking brake application.......................................... 66
6.21....... Capacity of air reservoirs................................................................. 67
Part 7—Control of emissions and LPG fuel systems 68
Division 1—Control of emissions 68
7.1......... Crank case gases............................................................................... 68
7.2......... Visible emissions.............................................................................. 68
7.4......... Exhaust system................................................................................. 68
7.5......... Stationary noise level limits............................................................. 70
Division 2—LPG fuel systems 71
7.6......... LPG‑powered vehicles..................................................................... 71
Part 8—Maximum road speed limiting 72
8.1......... Speed limiting................................................................................... 72
8.2......... Exemptions from speed limiting...................................................... 72
Part 9—Mechanical connections between vehicles 73
Division 1—Couplings on all types of vehicles 73
9.1......... General coupling requirements........................................................ 73
9.2......... Drawbar couplings........................................................................... 73
Division 2—Additional coupling requirements for B‑doubles and long road trains 74
9.3......... Application of Division to road trains.............................................. 74
9.4......... Couplings for B‑doubles and road trains.......................................... 74
9.5......... Selection of fifth wheel couplings for B‑doubles............................. 74
9.6......... Selection of fifth wheel couplings for road trains............................ 75
9.7......... Deciding the D‑value of fifth wheel couplings................................ 75
9.8......... Mounting of fifth wheel couplings on B‑doubles and road trains.... 75
9.9......... Branding of fifth wheel couplings on B‑doubles and road trains..... 75
9.10....... Selection of kingpins for B‑doubles and road trains........................ 75
9.11....... Attachment of kingpins on B‑doubles and road trains..................... 77
9.12....... Branding of kingpins on B‑doubles and road trains......................... 77
9.13....... Selection of couplings and drawbar eyes on road trains.................. 77
9.14....... Attachment of couplings and drawbar eyes on road trains.............. 77
9.15....... Branding of couplings and drawbar eyes on road trains.................. 77
9.16....... Tow coupling overhang on road trains............................................. 78
Part 10—Interpretation and definitions 79
Division 1—Interpretation of ADRs 79
10.1....... Second edition ADRs....................................................................... 79
10.2....... Third edition ADRs.......................................................................... 79
10.3....... ADR transitional provisions............................................................. 80
Division 2—Miscellaneous 81
10.4....... Measurement of distance between lines........................................... 81
10.5....... Equipment of a vehicle..................................................................... 81
10.5A.... Application to retractable axles........................................................ 81
Division 3—Definitions 82
10.6....... Definitions........................................................................................ 82
1Title
These Regulations may be cited as the Road Transport Reform (Heavy Vehicle Standards) Regulations.
2Commencement
(1)Regulations 1 and 2 commence on the day on which the making of these Regulations is notified in the Gazette.
(2)The remaining provisions of these Regulations commence on a day or days specified by the Commonwealth Minister by notice in the Gazette.
3Purpose
The purpose of these Regulations is to provide a set of standards, uniform or consistent throughout Australia, for the construction and performance of heavy motor vehicles and trailers:
(a)to promote, throughout the life of vehicles, their safe use and efficiency, and to promote protection of the environment; and
(b)to reduce the costs of transport administration.
4Interpretation
(1)In these Regulations:
Commonwealth Minister means the Minister of the Commonwealth administering the Act.
Heavy Vehicle Standards means the Heavy Vehicle Standards set out in the Schedule.
the Act means the Road Transport Reform (Vehicles and Traffic) Act 1993.
(2)Words and phrases defined in the Heavy Vehicle Standards have the same meanings in the Regulations.
Note:Definitions appear at the end of the Heavy Vehicle Standards.
(3)A note does not form part of these Regulations.
(4)Subject to subregulation (5), a diagram appearing in these Regulations is illustrative only.
(5)If a provision contains a diagram that is called an essential diagram, that diagram is part of these Regulations.
5Application of Heavy Vehicle Standards
(1)The relevant requirements of the Heavy Vehicle Standards apply to a vehicle or combination of vehicles if it:
(a)is, or includes, a vehicle with a GVM exceeding 4.5 tonnes; and
(b)is on:
(i)a road; or
(ii)an area that divides a road; or
(iii)a footpath or nature strip adjacent to a road; or
(iv)an area that is not a road and that is open to or used by the public for driving or parking vehicles; or
(v)an area that is open to or used by the public and has been declared in accordance with section 16 of the Act to be an area to which these Regulations apply.
(2)This regulation is subject to the exceptions mentioned in regulation 5A.
5AExceptions to application of Heavy Vehicle Standards
(1)A requirement of the Heavy Vehicle Standards does not apply to a vehicle, or combination of vehicles, used only on a railway or tramway.
(2)A requirement in Parts 2 to 9 (inclusive) of the Heavy Vehicle Standards does not apply to a vehicle if:
(a)the requirement is inconsistent with a requirement of a second or third edition ADR applying to the vehicle; and
(b)the vehicle complies with the requirement mentioned in paragraph (a).
(3)A requirement in Parts 2 to 9 (inclusive) of the Heavy Vehicle Standards does not apply to a vehicle if:
(a)the vehicle does not comply with a requirement of an ADR; and
(b)despite the non‑compliance, approval has been given, under section 10 of the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989, to place identification plates on vehicles of that type; and
(c)the vehicle complies with the approval conditions (if any); and
(d)the requirement of the Heavy Vehicle Standards corresponds to the requirement of the ADR.
6Vehicles and combinations to be properly maintained
(1)A vehicle or combination of vehicles must be kept in a condition that ensures:
(a)its safe operation; and
(b)the safety of its occupants and of other road users.
(2)A vehicle or combination of vehicles must be maintained in a condition that ensures that each of its emissions control systems remains fitted, and continues operating, essentially in accordance with the system’s original design.
(3)Subregulations (1) and (2) include, but are not limited to, the following aspects of the vehicle or combination:
(a)its steering, brakes, suspension, wheels, tyres, towing equipment and the means of transmitting engine power to the driven wheels; and
(b)the lights and reflectors that it is required to have under these Regulations; and
(c)the strength of its structure; and
(d)its driver’s view of the road; and
(e)its exhaust system; and
(f)its fuel system.
Note:The requirements of regulation 6 apply in addition to the requirements of the Heavy Vehicle Standards. The Heavy Vehicle Roadworthiness Guidelines, published in August 1994 by the National Road Transport Commission, provide information to help people meet the requirements of regulation 6.
7Exemption from Heavy Vehicle Standards
The Minister may declare in writing under section 17 of the Act that a specified vehicle is exempt from a requirement of the Heavy Vehicle Standards if he or she is satisfied that:
(a)compliance with the requirement would prevent the vehicle from operating in the manner, or for the purpose, for which the vehicle was built or modified; or
(b)the vehicle is an experimental vehicle, or prototype or other vehicle, that could not reasonably be expected to comply with the requirement; or
(c)the vehicle:
(i)was registered, or authorised to be driven or towed on a road, in Australia before this regulation commenced; and
(ii)was not required to comply with a requirement similar to the requirement from which the vehicle is being exempted.
Note:Subsection 46(2) of the Acts Interpretation Act 1901 of the Commonwealth allows the Minister to specify a vehicle for an exemption by referring to a class of vehicles. Vehicles can also be exempted from the dimension requirements of these Regulations by the Minister under the Road Transport Reform (Medium and Long Combination Vehicles) Regulations or the Road Transport Reform (Oversize and Overmass Vehicles) Regulations.
8Failure of a motor vehicle to comply with Heavy Vehicle Standards
(1)If a motor vehicle fails to comply with a requirement in these Regulations that applies to it, each of the following persons is guilty of an offence:
(a)the owner of the motor vehicle;
(b)the driver of the motor vehicle.
(2)A person who is both the owner and the driver of the motor vehicle may be punished only once in relation to the same failure of the motor vehicle to comply with a requirement.
Note:The words driver and owner are defined in the Heavy Vehicle Standards.
9Failure of a trailer to comply with Heavy Vehicle Standards
(1)If a trailer fails to comply with a requirement in these Regulations that applies to it, each of the following persons is guilty of an offence:
(a)the owner of the trailer;
(b)the owner of any motor vehicle towing the trailer;
(c)the driver of any motor vehicle towing the trailer.
(2)A person who meets more than one of the descriptions in paragraphs (1)(a), (b) and (c) may be punished only once in relation to the same failure of the trailer to comply with a requirement.
10Failure of a combination of vehicles to comply with Heavy Vehicle Standards
(1)If a combination of vehicles taken as a whole fails to comply with a requirement in these Regulations that applies to it, each of the following persons is guilty of an offence:
(a)the owner of a motor vehicle forming part of the combination;
(b)the driver of a motor vehicle forming part of the combination.
(2)A person who is both the owner and the driver of the motor vehicle may be punished only once in relation to the same failure of the combination of vehicles to comply with a requirement.
11Penalty for an offence
A person convicted of an offence under regulation 8, 9 or 10 is liable to a penalty not exceeding $2 000 for an individual or $10 000 for a body corporate.
12Failure to comply with certain exemptions
An exemption given under any Regulations made under the Act is to be disregarded in the prosecution of a person for an offence against these Regulations if:
(a)the offence relates to the failure of a vehicle or combination of vehicles to comply with a dimension limit applying under these Regulations; and
(b)the exemption permitted a greater dimension limit, but, at the time of the alleged offence, the vehicle or combination of vehicles was travelling:
(i)on a route other than a route where the vehicle or combination was permitted to travel under the exemption; or
(ii)at a time other than a time when the vehicle was permitted to travel under the exemption; or
(iii)accompanied by fewer than the number of pilot or escort vehicles required under the exemption.
13Application of Criminal Code
Chapter 2 of the Criminal Code applies to an offence against these Regulations as if the Code were in operation in this jurisdiction.
14Prescribed persons—delegation
For section 18 of the Act, the following persons are prescribed:
(a)each Commonwealth, State or Territory public authority;
(b)each officer or employee of:
(i)the Commonwealth or a State or Territory; or
(ii)each Commonwealth, State or Territory public authority;
(c)person holding an office established under a Commonwealth, State or Territory law.
Schedule—Heavy vehicle standards
Subregulation 4(1)
Introductory note to Heavy Vehicle Standards
The Heavy Vehicle Standards apply to all vehicles and trailers over 4.5 tonnes GVM (gross vehicle mass), regardless of when they were built, unless they have been exempted. Some of the Standards relate to combinations of vehicles such as B‑doubles or road trains.
In most cases, if a vehicle meets all of the Standards, it is suitable for use on the road without special restrictions. However, some vehicles at or approaching some of the maximum dimensions may be severely restricted as to where they can travel. These restrictions are imposed by other sets of regulations under the Road Transport Reform (Vehicles and Traffic) Act 1993. For example, other sets of regulations restrict the operation of:
· rigid vehicles more than 12.5 metres long or 4.3 metres high; and
· combinations of vehicles more than 19 metres long or 4.3 metres high; and
· vehicles with a quad‑axle group.
The Standards are intended to cover areas not already covered by the Australian Design Rules (ADRs), which are a set of rules for designing and building vehicles. The ADRs do not cover vehicles built before 1969, combinations of vehicles of any age, or some vehicles built for a special purpose. These are covered in Parts 2 to 9 (inclusive) of the Standards. The ADRs did not cover every safety feature for vehicles built between 1969 and 1988. The Standards are intended to fill these gaps too. If a vehicle is covered by both an ADR and a Standard, and the 2 are inconsistent, the vehicle must generally comply with the ADR.
These Standards also require a vehicle to continue to comply with the applicable ADRs.
A vehicle must continue to comply with these Regulations, even if it is modified. The National Code of Practice: Heavy Vehicle Modifications, issued by the Federal Office of Road Safety in Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6, provides advice to help decide whether a modified vehicle continues to comply with the Regulations. It is recommended that modifications be made in accordance with the Code. Modifications that are not covered by, or consistent with, the Code may also be permitted, but the owner must ensure that the vehicle continues to comply with these Regulations. Road laws provide that vehicles must not be used on a road unless they are in a safe condition.
Part 1—Application of ADRs
Note:This Part sets out how the ADRs and the other requirements in these Standards are applied to various vehicles. Vehicles are required to continue to comply with the relevant ADRs throughout their life but, because the most recent standards are the appropriate ones for today’s roads, a vehicle is allowed to meet a more recent standard instead of the one that applied to it when it was built. An earlier standard need not be complied with if it is inconsistent with a later standard dealing with the same thing on the same vehicle, and the vehicle complies with the later standard. Older vehicles are allowed to be fitted with any equipment that is allowed on newer vehicles. As explained in the Introductory Note, modified vehicles must still comply with these Standards.
The following terms defined in clause 10.6 are used in this Part:
ADRprime mover
GVMsemi‑trailer
mudguard
The following terms defined in section 4 of the Act are used in this Part:
motor vehicle trailer
1.1Compliance with second edition ADRs
(1)A vehicle to which a second edition ADR applies must comply with the ADR.
(2)For the purpose of subclause (1), a second edition ADR applies to a vehicle if the cover sheet of the document containing the standard includes a recommendation by the Australian Transport Advisory Council that vehicles in a category that includes the vehicle:
(a)comply, or be designed to comply, with the ADR; or
(b)be equipped with a thing that complies with the ADR; or
(c)have instruments located so as to comply with the ADR.
(3)In spite of subclause (1), a vehicle need not comply with a requirement of a second edition ADR if:
(a)the requirement has been superseded by, or is inconsistent with, a requirement of a third edition ADR; and
(b)the vehicle complies with the third edition ADR requirement.
1.2Compliance with third edition ADRs
A vehicle to which a third edition ADR applies must comply with the ADR.
1.3Limitations on application of the ADRs
(1)A vehicle need not comply with an ADR if:
(a)despite non‑compliance with the ADR, approval has been given, under subsection 10A(2) or 10A(3) of the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989, to place identification plates on vehicles of that type; and
(b)the vehicle complies with the approval conditions (if any).
Note:Section 10A of the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989 deals with the attachment of identification plates to vehicles. Subsection 10A(2) deals with vehicles that do not comply with an ADR, but the non‑compliance is only in minor and inconsequential respects. Subsection 10A(3) deals with vehicles that do not comply with an ADR, and the non‑compliance is not minor and inconsequential, but the vehicle will be safe to use if specified conditions are observed.
(2)The luminous transmittance requirements in paragraph 2.16(2)(b) apply instead of the corresponding requirements in the relevant ADR.
(3)The requirements of subclause 2.18(5) (relating to the speed at which a tyre must be suitable for road use) apply instead of the tyre speed category requirements in the relevant ADR.
(4)A vehicle to which subclause 5.38(3) applies need not comply with any requirements of a third edition ADR that would prevent it displaying lights or reflectors mentioned in subclause 5.38(3).
(5)A vehicle to which subclause 5.38(4) applies need not comply with any requirements of a third edition ADR that would prevent it displaying the lights permitted by the subclause.
1.4Additional equipment on vehicles
(1)If a third edition ADR permits a vehicle to be fitted with equipment, a vehicle may be fitted with the equipment, even though the vehicle was manufactured before the date specified in the ADR for the type of vehicle.
(2)If a third edition ADR contains a requirement for equipment fitted to a vehicle manufactured on or after a specified date, any equipment of that kind fitted to the vehicle after manufacture of the vehicle must comply with:
(a)the requirement as in force when the vehicle was manufactured; or
(b)if the requirement is amended in the period after the manufacture of the vehicle and before the fitting of the equipment—the requirement as in force:
(i)when the vehicle was manufactured; or
(ii)when the equipment was fitted; or
(iii)at any time between manufacture and the fitting of the equipment.
1.5Compliance with later editions of standards
A vehicle need not comply with an edition of an ADR, or an Australian Standard or a British Standard, mentioned in this Schedule if the vehicle complies with a later edition of the ADR or a later standard.
Part 2—General safety requirements
Note:To allow a vehicle to be operated safely, every aspect of the vehicle needs to be properly designed to minimise the potential for accidents or harm to other road users. This Part sets out various requirements covering the driver’s view from, and control of, a vehicle, protection of vehicle occupants and other road users, and other safety features of a more general nature.
The following terms defined in clause 10.6 are used in this Part:
ADRGVM
approved material mudguard
Australian Standard pole‑type trailer
axleprime mover
axle grouprepeater horn
B‑doubleroad train
driversingle axle
emergency vehicle
The following terms defined in section 4 of the Act are used in this Part:
motor vehicle road
trailer
2.1Steering
(1)The centre of at least 1 steering control of a motor vehicle must be to the right of, or in line with, the centre of the vehicle.
(2)A component of the steering system of a motor vehicle that is essential for effective steering of the vehicle must be built to transmit energy by mechanical means only.
(3)Failure of a non‑mechanical component of the steering system must not prevent effective steering of the vehicle.
2.2Turning ability
A motor vehicle must be able to turn both left and right, within a circle not exceeding 25 metres in diameter, measured by the outer edge of the tyre track at ground level.
2.3Ability to travel backwards and forwards
A motor vehicle must be capable of being driven both backwards and forwards by the driver when the driver is in the normal driving position.
2.4External or internal protrusions
(1)An object fitted to a vehicle must be designed, built and fitted to the vehicle in a way that minimises the likelihood of injury to a person making contact with the vehicle.
(2)Subclause (1) does not apply to an object fitted to a vehicle if:
(a)the vehicle was designed before 1 January 1965 and the object was part of the design; or
(b)the object was fitted to the vehicle before 1 January 1965 in accordance with the law of the place where the object was fitted.
2.5Driver’s view and control of vehicle
(1)A motor vehicle must be built:
(a)to allow the driver a view of traffic to its front and sides; and
(b)with its controls located;
so that the driver can drive it safely.
(2)The rearmost position of any passenger seat in a motor vehicle must not be located more than 100 millimetres in front of the rearmost position of the driver’s seat.
2.6Seating
A seat provided for a person to use in a moving vehicle must be securely attached to the vehicle.
2.7Mudguards and spray suppression
(1)A vehicle must have firmly fitted to it:
(a)a mudguard for each wheel or for adjacent wheels; and
(b)if the vehicle is part of a B‑double‑spray suppression devices complying with British Standard AU200 – 1984, Spray Reducing Devices for Heavy Goods Vehicles, Parts 1 and 2, for each axle group and single axle.
(2)Paragraph (1)(a) does not apply to a vehicle if:
(a)its construction or use makes it unnecessary or impracticable to provide mudguards; or
(b)the body or part of the body of the vehicle acts as a mudguard.
Note:Examples of vehicles to which paragraph (2)(a) applies are timber jinkers, most road‑making plant and some agricultural implements.
(3)A mudguard must, when the wheels of the vehicle are in position for it to move straight ahead:
(a)reduce the danger of a person contacting the moving wheels; and
(b)in the case of the rear wheels:
(i)cover the overall tyre width of the wheel or wheels for which it is provided; and
(ii)be fitted so that the height above the ground of the lowest edge of the rear of the mudguard is not more than one third of the horizontal distance of that edge from the centre of the rearmost axle.
(4)In spite of subclause (3), the mudguard may be at least:
(a)230 millimetres above the ground; or
(b)on a vehicle built to be used off a road—300 millimetres above the ground.
(5)The external surface of a rear mudguard, except a mudflap, that can be seen from the rear of the vehicle to which it is fitted must be coloured white or silver if the vehicle:
(a)is at least 2.2 metres wide, excluding mirrors, side‑mounted lights and reflectors; and
(b)has a body that is less than 300 millimetres high at the rear, measured from the lowest point of the body above the ground to the highest point; and
(c)is not fitted with rear marking plates in accordance with clause 5.39.
2.8Horns and alarms
(1)A motor vehicle must have fitted to it at least one horn or other device capable of giving sufficient audible warning to other road users of the approach or position of the vehicle.
(2)A motor vehicle must not have fitted to it a device capable of producing a sound resembling the sound of a siren, bell, exhaust whistle, compression whistle or repeater horn.
(3)Subclause (2) does not apply to:
(a)an emergency or police vehicle; or
(b)a motor vehicle that is 25 or more years old and is fitted as an emergency or police vehicle if the vehicle:
(i)is used for exhibition purposes; or
(ii)is part of a collection of vehicles that were formerly emergency or police vehicles; or
(c)an anti‑theft alarm if the alarm cannot be operated while the vehicle’s ignition is on.
(4)A motor vehicle may be fitted with a device which emits a regular, intermittent sound while the vehicle is rolling backwards or in reverse gear.
(5)A device described in subclause (4) must not be louder than is reasonably necessary for a person close to the vehicle and the driver to be able to hear the device.
2.9Rear‑vision mirrors
(1)Each side of a motor vehicle must be fitted with a mirror, which when used together enable the driver of the vehicle at all times to obtain, by reflection, a clear view of:
(a)the road to the rear of the vehicle; and
(b)any following or overtaking vehicle.
(2)A mirror fitted to a vehicle must not project more than 150 millimetres beyond the widest part (excluding lights and reflectors) of the vehicle or combination of vehicles including the vehicle.
(3)In spite of subclause (2), the mirrors fitted to a motor vehicle may project beyond the widest part (excluding lights and reflectors) of the vehicle or combination of vehicles by up to 230 millimetres if they can be folded or collapsed to project not more than 150 millimetres.
(4)One mirror on the left side of the vehicle must have a reflecting surface of at least 150 square centimetres.
(5)One mirror on the right side of the vehicle must have:
(a)a reflecting surface of at least 150 square centimetres; and
(b)a flat reflecting surface, if:
(i)the vehicle has only 1 steering control; and
(ii)the centre of the steering control is to the right of, or in line with, the centre of the motor vehicle.
(6)A vehicle may be fitted with additional mirrors or mirror surfaces that are flat or convex or a combination of flat and convex.
2.10Automatic transmissions
(1)A motor vehicle fitted with an automatic transmission must have an engine starter mechanism that cannot operate when the transmission control is in a position to drive the vehicle.
(2)A vehicle that is:
(a)fitted with automatic transmission; and
(b)manufactured after 1975;
must have in the driver’s compartment an indicator showing the transmission control position.
2.11Diesel engines
A motor vehicle propelled by a compression ignition engine (commonly known as a “diesel engine”) must be fitted with a device that prevents the engine from being started accidentally or inadvertently.
2.12Bonnet securing devices
(1)A motor vehicle with a moveable body panel forward of the windscreen, and covering an engine, luggage, storage or battery compartment, must be provided with a device to secure the panel.
(2)However, if the panel opens from the front in a way that partly or completely obstructs the driver’s forward view through the windscreen, the panel must be provided with both primary and secondary devices to secure the panel.
2.13Electrical wiring, connections and installations
(1)The wiring of electrical equipment of a vehicle, other than the high tension ignition wiring, must:
(a)be supported at intervals of not more than 600 millimetres, unless the vehicle is a pole‑type trailer with a pole whose length can be adjusted, or an extendible trailer; and
(b)be insulated at joints; and
(c)be located where it cannot:
(i)become overheated; or
(ii)contact moving parts; or
(iii)come close enough to the fuel system to constitute a fire hazard; and
(d)be protected from chafing.
(2)The electrical connectors between motor vehicles and trailers, for operation of the vehicle lights prescribed in these Standards, must comply with Australian Standard AS 2513 – 1982, Electrical Connections for Trailer Vehicles.
(3)A trailer must be equipped with an electrical conductor, independent of the trailer coupling, that provides a return path between the electrical circuits of the trailer and the towing vehicle.
(4)The electrical wiring, connections and installations of a semi‑trailer, dog trailer or converter dolly used in a road train more than 19 metres long after 30 June 1998 must comply with third edition ADR 63 whether or not it was built before the date specified in the ADR for that type of vehicle.
2.14Television and visual display units
(1)A television receiver or visual display unit must not be installed in a vehicle if any part of the image on the screen is visible to the driver from the normal driving position.
(2)Subclause (1) does not apply to installation of a driver’s aid in any vehicle or a destination sign in a bus.
Note:Examples of display units that are considered to be drivers’ aids are: rear‑view screens, ticket‑issuing machines, navigational or intelligent highway and vehicle system equipment, vehicle monitoring devices, despatch systems and closed circuit television security cameras.
(3)A television receiver or visual display unit and its associated equipment in a vehicle must be securely mounted in a position that:
(a)does not obscure the driver’s view of the road; and
(b)does not impede the movement of a person in the vehicle.
2.15Windscreens and windows
(1)Transparent material used in a windscreen, window, or an interior partition of a motor vehicle must be approved material if:
(a)the motor vehicle was manufactured on or after 1 July 1953; or
(b)the material was fitted on or after 1 July 1953.
(2)In subclause (1):
transparent material does not include any coating added to the windscreen, window or partition after its manufacture.
2.16Window tinting
(1)Glazing in a motor vehicle must not have:
(a)a luminous transmittance of less than:
(i)75% in the case of a windscreen of a vehicle manufactured after 1971; and
(ii)70% in any other case; or
(b)for glazing to which a coating or film has been added—a reflectance of more than 10%.
(2)Paragraph (1)(a) does not apply to:
(a)the greater of the following areas of a windscreen:
(i)the area above the highest point of the windscreen that is swept by a windscreen wiper;
(ii)the highest area, measured in front of the driver’s seat, that covers 10% of the windscreen; or
(b)glazing with a luminous transmittance of at least 35% behind the driver’s seat.
(3)In this clause, glazing means transparent material, or a combination of transparent materials, fitted to the front, sides or rear of a vehicle, through which the driver or a passenger can obtain a view of the road.
2.17Windscreen wipers and washers
(1)A motor vehicle fitted with a windscreen must be fitted with at least one windscreen wiper.
(2)A windscreen wiper or windscreen wipers must:
(a)be able to remove moisture from the windscreen in front, and to the left, of the driver to allow the driver an adequate view of the road ahead of the motor vehicle when the windscreen is wet; and
(b)be able to be operated by the driver of the vehicle from a normal driving position; and
(c)be power‑driven; and
(d)if operated by engine manifold vacuum—be provided with a vacuum reservoir or pump to maintain efficient operation of the wiper or wipers while the vehicle is in motion.
(3)A motor vehicle:
(a)manufactured on or after 1 January 1983; and
(b)required to be fitted with a windscreen wiper;
must be fitted with a windscreen washer that can direct water on to the exterior of the windscreen within the area swept by a wiper so that the wiper can spread the water to the whole area swept by the wiper.
(4)A windscreen washer must be able to be operated from a normal driving position.
(5)In spite of subclause (1), if the driver in a normal driving position can obtain an adequate view of the road ahead of the motor vehicle when the windscreen is obscured, the vehicle need not be fitted with a windscreen wiper or washer.
2.18Wheels and tyres
(1)A vehicle must be fitted with pneumatic tyres.
(2)The wheels and tyres fitted to an axle of a vehicle must be of sufficient size and capacity to carry the portion of the GVM transmitted to the ground through the axle.
(3)The size and capacity of a tyre to be fitted to a vehicle must be determined using a cold inflation pressure that does not exceed the lesser of:
(a)the pressure recommended by the manufacturer of the tyre; and
(b)in the case of:
(i)a radial ply tyre—825 kilopascals; or
(ii)another tyre—700 kilopascals.
(4)A tyre fitted to a vehicle must be free of any apparent defect which could make the vehicle unsafe.
(5)A tyre fitted to a vehicle must be suitable for road use at:
(a)a speed of at least 100 kilometres an hour; or
(b)if the vehicle cannot travel at a speed of 100 kilometres an hour—its top speed.
(6)A tyre that is retreaded before the commencement of this subclause must not be used on a vehicle if:
(a)an Australian Standard mentioned in Part 1 of the table applies to the tyre; and
(b)the tyre was retreaded after the issue of the standard; and
(c)the tyre was not retreaded in accordance with an Australian Standard mentioned in Part 1 or 2 of the table.
(7)A tyre retreaded after the commencement of this subclause must not be used on a vehicle if:
(a)an Australian Standard mentioned in Part 2 of the table applies to the tyre; and
(b)the tyre was not retreaded in accordance with the standard.
| Table Australian Standards for tyre retreading |
| Part 1 |
| Australian Standard AS 1973 – 1976, Retreaded Pneumatic Passenger Car and Light Truck Tyres |
| Australian Standard AS 1973 – 1985, Retreaded Pneumatic Passenger and Light Truck Tyres |
| Part 2 |
| Australian Standard AS 1973 – 1993, Pneumatic Tyres—Passenger Car, Light Truck and Truck/Bus—Retreading and Repair Processes |
Note:Australian Standard AS 1973 requires various markings on retreaded tyres. These may include a speed rating less than the rating originally marked on the tyre.
2.19Tyre tread
(1)A tyre of a vehicle must not have cleats or other gripping devices that could damage the road surface.
(2)Except at tread wear indicators, a tyre fitted to a vehicle must have a tread pattern at least 1.5 millimetres deep in a band that runs continuously:
(a)across at least 75% of the tyre width that normally comes into contact with the road; and
(b)around the whole circumference of the tyre.
(3)A vehicle must not be fitted with a tyre that has been treated by re‑cutting or re‑grooving the tread rubber, unless the tyre was:
(a)constructed with an extra thickness of rubber designed for the purpose of re‑cutting or re‑grooving; and
(b)labelled to indicate the construction.
Part 3—Vehicle marking
Note:This Part sets out requirements that help to identify a vehicle for the purpose of knowing who is responsible for it on the road, and to warn other motorists that the vehicle may be unusually long.
The following terms defined in clause 10.6 are used in this Part:
Australian Standard road train
B‑double
The following terms defined in section 4 of the Act are used in this Part:
motor vehicle trailer
3.1Vehicle and engine identification numbers
(1)The engine block of a motor vehicle must have an individual engine identification number stamped, embossed or otherwise permanently displayed on it.
(2)An engine identification number on a plate that is fixed to an engine block using screws or rivets is not permanently displayed on the block.
(3)A vehicle must have an individual vehicle identification number clearly stamped, embossed or otherwise permanently displayed on a substantial part of its frame or chassis.
(4)An identification number must be located where it can be read easily without having to use tools to remove a part of the vehicle that would otherwise obstruct the reader’s view.
(5)In this clause, number includes letters.
3.2White or silver band on certain vehicles
A vehicle that:
(a)is at least 2.2 metres wide; and
(b)has a body that is less than 300 millimetres high at the rear, measured from the lowest point of the body above the ground to the highest point; and
(c)is not fitted with rear marking plates in accordance with clause 5.39;
must have a white or silver band at least 75 millimetres high across the full width of the rearmost part of the body of the vehicle.
3.3Warning signs for combinations of vehicles more than 22 metres long
(1)A combination of vehicles more than 30 metres long must display ‘ROAD TRAIN’ warning signs complying with this clause and clause 3.5.
(2)A combination of vehicles more than 22 metres, but not more than 30 metres, long must display a ‘LONG VEHICLE’ warning sign (or, for a road train, ‘ROAD TRAIN’ warning signs) complying with this clause and clause 3.5.
(3)Subclauses (1) and (2) do not apply to the extent that they are inconsistent with the conditions set out in a notice or permit issued under the Act.
(4)The words on a ‘ROAD TRAIN’ or ‘LONG VEHICLE’ warning sign must be in black upper case letters at least 180 millimetres high in typeface Series B (N) and complying with Australian Standard AS 1744 Forms of Letters and Numerals for Road Signs.
(5)If a ‘ROAD TRAIN’ or ‘LONG VEHICLE’ warning sign is in 2 pieces, a single word of the expression must appear on one piece and the other word on the other piece.
(6)‘ROAD TRAIN’ warning signs must be displayed in pairs and fitted horizontally, one at the front and the other at the rear, of the combination of vehicles.
(7)A ‘LONG VEHICLE’ warning sign must be fitted horizontally to the rear of the combination of vehicles.
3.4When warning signs not to be displayed
A ‘ROAD TRAIN’ warning sign or a ‘LONG VEHICLE’ warning sign must not be displayed on a vehicle unless it is a vehicle to which clause 3.3 applies.
3.5Specifications for warning signs
(1)A warning sign must be:
(a)durable; and
(b)manufactured in 1 or 2 pieces from sheet steel 0.8 millimetres thick or an alternative material of at least equivalent stiffness, unless it is designed to be fixed to the vehicle body using an adhesive.
(2)A sign must be at least 1.02 metres wide and 250 millimetres high.
(3)A sign must be coated with yellow retro‑reflective material (class 1 or class 2) which meets Australian Standard AS 1906, Retro‑reflective Materials and Devices for Road Traffic Control Purposes.
(4)A sign must have a black border.
(5)The sign must show the sign manufacturer’s name or logo, and the brand and class of retro‑reflective material used, in block letters not more than 10 millimetres high.
(6)A warning sign must be mounted so that no part of the sign is:
(a)more than 1.8 metres above the ground; or
(b)less than 500 millimetres above the ground.
Positioning of a warning sign
3.6Left hand drive signs
(1)A motor vehicle with the centre of a steering control to the left of the centre of the vehicle must display the words ‘LEFT HAND DRIVE’ on the rear of the vehicle.
(2)The words must be in letters at least 75 millimetres high, and in a colour that contrasts with the background to the words on the vehicle.
Part 4—Vehicle configuration and dimensions
Note:This Part sets out various requirements covering suspensions on vehicles and size limits for single vehicles and combinations of vehicles, so that they can be operated safely with other traffic, without taking up too much road space or damaging the road and structures on the road.
Generally, the limits specified in this Part apply to a vehicle and any load it may be carrying.
Specific requirements for loaded vehicles are covered in other sets of regulations under the Road Transport Reform (Vehicles and Traffic) Act 1993. Those regulations also include a number of different size limits to cater for vehicles from which the load is allowed to protrude, for example height and allowable rear overhang of car carriers.
The following terms defined in clause 10.6 are used in this Part:
articulated bus GVM
axleload‑sharing suspension system
axle grouppoint of articulation
busoverhang
centre of an axle group rear overhang line
combination of vehicles road train
converter dolly semi‑trailer
dog trailersingle axle
drawbarsingle axle group
fifth wheel coupling tandem axle group
ground clearance twinsteer axle group
The following terms defined in section 4 of the Act are used in this Part:
motor vehicle trailer
Division 1—Axles
4.1Axle configuration
(1)A motor vehicle, other than an articulated bus, must have only:
(a)a single axle group, a twinsteer axle group or a single axle towards the front of the vehicle; and
(b)one axle group or a single axle towards the rear of the vehicle.
(2)An articulated bus must have on:
(a)its front section:
(i)only a single axle group, a twinsteer axle group or a single axle towards the front of the section; and
(ii)only one axle group or a single axle towards the rear of the section; and
(b)a section other than its front section—only one axle group or single axle.
(3)A trailer, other than a semi‑trailer, must have only:
(a)one axle group or a single axle; or
(b)2 axle groups or 2 single axles in the following configuration:
(i)one axle group or single axle towards the front of the vehicle, with all the wheels on the axle group or single axle connected to the steering mechanism for that part of the trailer; and
(ii)one axle group or single axle towards the rear of the vehicle.
(4)A semi‑trailer must have only one axle group or a single axle.
(5)The axle group or single axle must be located towards the rear of the semi‑trailer.
(6)A semi‑trailer that is extendible, or is fitted with sliding axles, must:
(a)have a securing device that:
(i)can securely fix the extendible part or the sliding axles to the rest of the vehicle in any position of adjustment provided; and
(ii)is located in a position that can prevent accidental or inadvertent release, if it is mounted on the chassis of the vehicle; and
(iii)is fitted with a visible or audible warning device to indicate to a person standing beside the vehicle that the device is not engaged; and
(iv)is fitted with a means of preventing loss of air from the air brake supply, if the device uses air from the brake system and fails in a way that allows air to escape; and
(v)is held in the applied position by direct mechanical action without the intervention of any hydraulic, electric or pneumatic device; and
(b)be built so that the adjustable parts of the vehicle remain connected if the securing device fails.
4.2Relation between axles in an axle group
The axles in an axle group, other than a twinsteer axle group, fitted to a vehicle must relate to each other through a load‑sharing suspension system.
Division 2—Dimensions
4.4Width
(1)A vehicle must not be more than 2.5 metres wide.
(2)For the purposes of subclause (1), the width of a vehicle is measured without taking into account rear‑vision mirrors, lights or reflectors that:
(a)are mounted on either side of the vehicle; and
(b)comply with these Standards.
4.5Length of single motor vehicles
(1)A motor vehicle, other than an articulated bus or a controlled access bus, must not be more than 12.5 metres long.
(2)A controlled access bus must not be more than 14.5 metres long.
(3)An articulated bus must not be more than 18 metres long.
4.6Length of single trailers
(1)On a semi‑trailer or a dog trailer:
(a)the distance between the point of articulation at the front of the trailer and the rear overhang line must not be more than 9.5 metres; and
(b)the distance between the point of articulation at the front of the trailer and the rear of the trailer must not be more than 12.3 metres.
(2)A projection forward of the point of articulation at the front of a semi‑trailer must be contained within a radius of 1.9 metres from the point of articulation.
Maximum dimensions of a semi‑trailer
(3)If a semi‑trailer has more than one point of articulation at the front, it must meet the requirements of subclauses (1) and (2) when measured at one of the points.
(4)In addition to meeting the other requirements of this clause, a trailer built to carry cattle, sheep, pigs or horses must not have more than 12.5 metres of its length available for the carriage of animals.
(5)For subclause (4), the length available for the carriage of animals on a trailer is to be measured from the inside of the front wall or door of the trailer to the inside of the rear wall or door of the trailer, with any intervening partitions being disregarded.
4.7Length of combinations of vehicles
(1)A combination of vehicles must not be more than 19 metres long.
(2)In spite of subclause (1):
(a)a B‑double must not be more than 25 metres long; and
(b)a road train must not be more than 53.5 metres long; and
(c)a combination of vehicles designed to carry vehicles on more than 1 deck, other than a B‑double or road train, must not be more than 23 metres long.
(3)In a B‑double built to carry cattle, sheep, pigs or horses, the 2 semi‑trailers must not have more than 18.8 metres of their combined length available for the carriage of animals.
(4)For subclause (3), the length available for the carriage of animals on a semi‑trailer is to be measured from the inside of the front wall or door of the trailer to the inside of the rear wall or door of the trailer, with any intervening partitions being disregarded.
4.8Rear overhang
(1)The rear overhang of a semi‑trailer, or a dog trailer consisting of a semi‑trailer and converter dolly, must not exceed the lesser of:
(a)60% of the distance between the point of articulation at the front and the rear overhang line; and
(b)3.7 metres.
(2)A semi‑trailer with more than one point of articulation at the front must comply with subclause (1) when measured at the same point used for measurement of compliance with subclause 4.6(3).
(3)The rear overhang of a trailer with only one axle group or single axle, other than a semi‑trailer, must not exceed the lesser of:
(a)the length of the load carrying area, or body, ahead of the rear overhang line; and
(b)3.7 metres.
(4)The rear overhang of a vehicle not described in subclause (1) or (3) must not exceed the lesser of:
(a)60% of the distance between the centre of the front axle and the rear overhang line; and
(b)3.7 metres.
4.9Trailer drawbar length
(1)The distance between the coupling pivot point on the drawbar of a dog trailer and the centre‑line of the front axle group or the centre line of the front single axle of the trailer must:
(a)not exceed 5 metres; and
(b)not be less than 3 metres, if the trailer is used in a road train more than 19 metres long.
Length of a drawbar on a dog trailer
(2)The distance between the coupling pivot point on a drawbar and the centre‑line of the axle group or single axle on a trailer with only one axle group or single axle, other than a semi‑trailer, must not exceed 8.5 metres.
4.10Height
(1)A vehicle must not be more than 4.3 metres high.
(2)In spite of subclause (1):
(a)the height of a vehicle built to carry cattle, sheep, pigs or horses must not exceed 4.6 metres; and
(b)the height of a double‑deck bus must not exceed 4.4 metres.
4.11Ground clearance
A motor vehicle or combination of vehicles must have a ground clearance:
(a)of at least 100 millimetres at any point within 1 metre of an axle; and
(b)of at least one‑thirtieth of the distance between the centres of adjacent axles at the mid‑point between them; and
(c)at any other point—of at least the distance that allows the vehicle or combination to pass over a peak in the road, the gradient on either side of which is 1:15, when the wheels of one axle of the vehicle or combination are on the slope on one side of the peak and the wheels of the next axle are on the slope on the other side.
Ground clearance at the mid‑point between 2 axles
Ground clearance over a peak in the road
Division 3—Additional requirements for a converter dolly
4.12Axle arrangement on a converter dolly
A converter dolly must have a single axle group, a tandem axle group or a single axle.
4.13Construction of a converter dolly
A converter dolly must be built so that the torque reaction generated in the dolly by braking forces can be:
(a)transmitted through a towing coupling built for the purpose into a towing vehicle; or
(b)absorbed or dissipated by a limited travel suspension system fitted to a tandem axle group on the dolly.
4.14Converter dolly coupling
(1)The fifth wheel coupling of a converter dolly must be able to pivot about a horizontal axis transverse to the vehicle.
(2)A converter dolly referred to in paragraph 4.13(1)(a) must have a fixed drawbar.
(3)The drawbar of a converter dolly referred to in paragraph 4.13(1)(b) must be hinged to the front of the dolly chassis in a way that allows the drawbar to swing up and down.
4.15Converter dolly suspension
(1)A tandem axle group supporting a converter dolly referred to in paragraph 4.13(1)(a) must have a single point or air bag suspension system.
(2)A tandem axle group supporting a converter dolly referred to in paragraph 4.13(1)(b) must have a suspension system incorporating:
(a)at least 4 laminated springs; or
(b)leading and trailing arms; or
(c)torsion bars; or
(d)air bags.
Part 5—Lights and reflectors
(a)built mainly to carry people; and
(b)that seats more than 9 adults (including the driver).
centre of an axle group means:
(a)a line located midway between the centre lines of the outermost axles of the group; or
(b)if the group consists of 2 axles, one of which is fitted with twice the number of tyres as the other axle‑a line located one third of the way from the centre line of the axle with more tyres towards the centre line of the axle with fewer tyres.
Centre of a tandem axle group fitted with an equal number of tyres on each axle
Centre of a tandem axle group fitted with a different number of tyres on each axle
Centre of a tri‑axle group
Centre of a quad‑axle group
combination of vehicles means a motor vehicle connected to one or more trailers.
controlled access bus means a bus, except an articulated bus, that is more than 12.5 metres long.
converter dolly means a trailer with one axle group or single axle and a fifth wheel coupling, designed to convert a semi‑trailer into a dog trailer.
Converter dolly
Criminal Code means the Criminal Code set out in the Schedule to the Criminal Code Act 1995 of the Commonwealth.
dangerous goods has the same meaning as in the Road Transport Reform (Dangerous Goods) Regulations.
dog trailer means a trailer (including a trailer consisting of a semi‑trailer and converter dolly) with:
(a)one axle group or single axle at the front that is steered by connection to the towing vehicle by a drawbar; and
(b)one axle group or single axle at the rear.
Dog trailer
drawbar means a part of a trailer (other than a semi‑trailer) that connects the trailer body to a coupling for towing purposes.
driver means the person driving or in control of a vehicle.
emergency brake means a brake designed to be used if a service brake fails.
emergency vehicle has the same meaning as in the Road Transport Reform (Australian Road Rules) Regulations.
emission includes noise emission.
fifth wheel coupling means a device, other than the upper rotating element and the kingpin (which are parts of a semi‑trailer), used with a prime mover, semi‑trailer or a converter dolly to permit quick coupling and uncoupling and to provide for articulation.
ground clearance means the minimum distance to the ground from the underside of a vehicle excluding its tyres, wheels, wheel hubs, brake backing plates and flexible mudguards or mudflaps.
GTM (gross trailer mass) means the mass transmitted to the ground by the axles of a trailer when the trailer is loaded to its GVM and connected to a towing vehicle.
GVM (gross vehicle mass) means the maximum loaded mass of a vehicle:
(a)specified by the manufacturer; or
(b)specified by the vehicle registration authority if:
(i)the manufacturer has not specified a maximum loaded mass; or
(ii)the manufacturer cannot be identified; or
(iii)the vehicle has been modified to the extent that the manufacturer’s specification is no longer appropriate.
high‑beam, in relation to a headlight, means built or adjusted so that it is not in the low‑beam position.
load‑sharing suspension system means an axle group suspension system that:
(a)is built to divide the load between the tyres on the group so that no tyre carries a mass more than 10% greater than the mass it would carry if the load were divided equally; and
(b)has effective damping characteristics on all axles of the group.
low‑beam, in relation to a headlight or front fog light fitted to a vehicle, means built or adjusted so that, when the vehicle is standing on level ground, the top of the main beam of light projected is:
(a)not higher than the centre of the headlight or fog light, when measured at a point 8 metres in front of the vehicle; and
(b)not more than one metre higher than the level on which the motor vehicle is standing, when measured at a point 25 metres in front of the vehicle.
A headlight in the low‑beam position
mudguard means a fitting or device, with or without a mudflap, which is built and fitted to a vehicle in a way that will, as far as practicable, catch or deflect downwards any stone, mud, water or other substance thrown up by the rotation of the wheel for which the fitting or device is provided.
owner, in relation to a vehicle, means:
(a)a person in whose name the vehicle is registered under a Commonwealth, State or Territory Act; or
(b)a person who, according to the vehicle registration authority’s records, has acquired the vehicle from the person in whose name the vehicle is registered under the relevant Act; or
(c)if the vehicle is not registered‑a person to whom a mark, plate, or permit has been issued to allow the vehicle to be used; or
(d)a person who is entitled to the possession of the vehicle.
point of articulation means:
(a)the axis of a kingpin for a fifth wheel; or
(b)the vertical axis of rotation of a fifth wheel coupling; or
(c)the vertical axis of rotation of a turntable assembly; or
(d)the vertical axis of rotation of the front axle group or single axle of a dog trailer.
Point of articulation—fifth wheel coupling on a converter dolly (forming the front axle group of a dog trailer)
Articulation—fifth wheel on a prime mover
Point of articulation—kingpin for fifth wheel
pole‑type trailer means a trailer that:
(a)is attached to a towing vehicle by means of a pole or an attachment fitted to the pole; and
(b)is ordinarily used for transporting loads, such as logs, pipes, structural members or other long objects, that are generally capable of supporting themselves like beams between supports.
Pole‑type trailer
police officer means:
(a)a member or special member of the Australian Federal Police; or
(b)a member (however described) of a State or Territory police force or service; or
(c)a service police officer within the meaning of the Defence Force Discipline Act 1982 of the Commonwealth.
police vehicle means a vehicle driven by a police officer in the course of his or her duty.
prime mover means a motor vehicle built to tow a semi‑trailer.
quad‑axle group means a group of 4 axles, in which the horizontal distance between the centre lines of the outermost axles is more than 3.2 metres but not more than 4.9 metres.
rear overhang means the distance between the rear overhang line and the rear of the vehicle.
rear overhang line means:
(a)if there is a single axle at the rear of the vehicle—the centre line of the axle; or
(b)if there is an axle group at the rear of the vehicle—the centre of the axle group, determined without regard to the presence of any steerable axle, unless all axles in the group are steerable.
Rear overhang and rear overhang line—vehicle with tri‑axle group at rear
Rear overhang and rear overhang line—motor vehicle
Rear overhang and rear overhang line—semi‑trailer
repeater horn means a device which makes a sound alternating between different tones or frequencies on a regular time cycle.
retractable axle means an axle with a means of adjustment enabling it to be raised or lowered relative to the other axles in the axle group.
road tank vehicle has the same meaning as in the sixth edition of the Australian Code for the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Road and Rail.
road train means a combination of vehicles, other than a B‑double, consisting of a motor vehicle towing at least 2 trailers (counting as one trailer a converter dolly supporting a semi‑trailer).
Road train
semi‑trailer means a trailer (including a pole‑type trailer) that has:
(a)one axle group or single axle towards the rear; and
(b)a means of attachment to a prime mover that would result in some of the load being imposed on the prime mover.
service brake means the brake normally used to decelerate a vehicle.
single axle means an axle not forming part of an axle group.
single axle group means a group of 2 or more axles, in which the horizontal distance between the centre lines of the outermost axles is less than 1 metre.
spring brake means a brake using one or more springs to store the energy required to operate the brake.
tandem axle group means a group of at least 2 axles, in which the horizontal distance between the centre lines of the outermost axles is at least 1 metre, but not more than 2 metres.
this jurisdiction means the Australian Capital Territory and the Jervis Bay Territory.
tow coupling overhang means the horizontal distance from the centre of the axle group, or the centre line of the single axle, at the rear of a vehicle to the pivot point of the coupling near the rear of the vehicle.
Tow coupling overhang—semi‑trailer with extra coupling at rear
Tow coupling overhang—motor vehicle
Tow coupling overhang—dog trailer
tri‑axle group means a group of at least 3 axles, in which the horizontal distance between the centre lines of the outermost axles is more than 2 metres, but not more than 3.2 metres.
turntable means a bearing that is built to carry vertical and horizontal loads, but does not allow quick separation of its upper and lower rotating elements, and that is used to connect and allow articulation between:
(a)a prime mover and semi‑trailer; or
(b)the steering axle or axle group of a dog trailer and the body of the trailer; or
(c)a fifth wheel coupling and the vehicle to which it is mounted.
twinsteer axle group means a group of 2 axles:
(a)with single tyres; and
(b)fitted to a motor vehicle; and
(c)connected to the same steering mechanism; and
(d)the horizontal distance between the centre lines of which is at least 1 metre, but not more than 2 metres.
Twinsteer axle group on a motor vehicle
vacuum brakes means vacuum‑operated or vacuum‑assisted brakes.
vehicle registration authority, in relation to a vehicle, means:
(a)the authority that last registered the vehicle; or
(b)if the vehicle has never been registered—the authority responsible for registering vehicles in the jurisdiction in which the vehicle is used or is intended to be used.
50 millimetre kingpin means a kingpin meeting the dimension requirements for a 50 millimetre kingpin in Australian Standard AS 2175 – 1990, Articulated Vehicles—Kingpins.
75 millimetre kingpin means a kingpin with the dimensions specified in subclause 9.10(4).
90 millimetre kingpin means a kingpin meeting the dimension requirements for a 90 millimetre kingpin in Australian Standard AS 2175 – 1990, Articulated Vehicles—Kingpins.
Endnotes
Endnote 1—About the endnotes
The endnotes provide information about this compilation and the compiled law.
The following endnotes are included in every compilation:
Endnote 1—About the endnotes
Endnote 2—Abbreviation key
Endnote 3—Legislation history
Endnote 4—Amendment history
Abbreviation key—Endnote 2
The abbreviation key sets out abbreviations that may be used in the endnotes.
Legislation history and amendment history—Endnotes 3 and 4
Amending laws are annotated in the legislation history and amendment history.
The legislation history in endnote 3 provides information about each law that has amended (or will amend) the compiled law. The information includes commencement details for amending laws and details of any application, saving or transitional provisions that are not included in this compilation.
The amendment history in endnote 4 provides information about amendments at the provision (generally section or equivalent) level. It also includes information about any provision of the compiled law that has been repealed in accordance with a provision of the law.
Editorial changes
The Legislation Act 2003 authorises First Parliamentary Counsel to make editorial and presentational changes to a compiled law in preparing a compilation of the law for registration. The changes must not change the effect of the law. Editorial changes take effect from the compilation registration date.
If the compilation includes editorial changes, the endnotes include a brief outline of the changes in general terms. Full details of any changes can be obtained from the Office of Parliamentary Counsel.
Misdescribed amendments
A misdescribed amendment is an amendment that does not accurately describe the amendment to be made. If, despite the misdescription, the amendment can be given effect as intended, the amendment is incorporated into the compiled law and the abbreviation “(md)” added to the details of the amendment included in the amendment history.
If a misdescribed amendment cannot be given effect as intended, the abbreviation “(md not incorp)” is added to the details of the amendment included in the amendment history.
Endnote 2—Abbreviation key
| ad = added or inserted | o = order(s) |
| am = amended | Ord = Ordinance |
| amdt = amendment | orig = original |
| c = clause(s) | par = paragraph(s)/subparagraph(s) |
| C[x] = Compilation No. x | /sub‑subparagraph(s) |
| Ch = Chapter(s) | pres = present |
| def = definition(s) | prev = previous |
| Dict = Dictionary | (prev…) = previously |
| disallowed = disallowed by Parliament | Pt = Part(s) |
| Div = Division(s) | r = regulation(s)/rule(s) |
| ed = editorial change | reloc = relocated |
| exp = expires/expired or ceases/ceased to have | renum = renumbered |
| effect | rep = repealed |
| F = Federal Register of Legislation | rs = repealed and substituted |
| gaz = gazette | s = section(s)/subsection(s) |
| LA = Legislation Act 2003 | Sch = Schedule(s) |
| LIA = Legislative Instruments Act 2003 | Sdiv = Subdivision(s) |
| (md) = misdescribed amendment can be given | SLI = Select Legislative Instrument |
| effect | SR = Statutory Rules |
| (md not incorp) = misdescribed amendment | Sub‑Ch = Sub‑Chapter(s) |
| cannot be given effect | SubPt = Subpart(s) |
| mod = modified/modification | underlining = whole or part not |
| No. = Number(s) | commenced or to be commenced |
Endnote 3—Legislation history
| Name | Registration | Commencement | Application, saving and transitional provisions |
| National Transport Commission (Road Transport Legislation—Heavy Vehicle Standards Regulations) Regulations 2006 (SLI No. 25, 2006) | 20 Feb 2006 (F2006L00238) | 21 Feb 2006 (r 2) | |
| National Transport Commission (Road Transport Legislation—Heavy Vehicle Standards Regulations) Amendment Regulations 2006 (No. 1) (SLI No. 24, 2006) | 20 Feb 2006 (F2006L00239) | 21 Feb 2006 (r 2) | — |
| Acts and Instruments (Framework Reform) (Consequential Amendments) Regulation 2016 | 29 Feb 2016 (F2016L00170) | Sch 1 (item 54): 5 Mar 2016 (s 2(1) item 1) | — |
Endnote 4—Amendment history
| Provision affected | How affected |
| r 3............................................. | am F2016L00170 |
| Schedule 1 | |
| r 3............................................. | am F2006L00239 |
| ed C1 | |
| r 5............................................. | am F2006L00239 |
| r 5A........................................... | ad F2006L00239 |
| r 6............................................. | am F2006L00239 |
| r 7............................................. | am F2006L00239 |
| ed C1 | |
| r 10............................................ | am F2006L00239 |
| r 12............................................ | ad F2006L00239 |
| r 13............................................ | ad F2006L00239 |
| r 14............................................ | ad F2006L00239 |
| Schedule (within Schedule 1) | |
| Schedule heading........................ | rs F2006L00239 |
| Part 1 | |
| c 1.3.......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| c 1.4.......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| c 1.5.......................................... | ad F2006L00239 |
| Part 2 | |
| c 2.1.......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| c 2.4.......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| c 2.5.......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| c 2.7.......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| c 2.8.......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| c 2.9.......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| c 2.12......................................... | rs F2006L00239 |
| c 2.15......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| c 2.16......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| c 2.18......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| Part 3 | |
| c 3.3.......................................... | rs F2006L00239 |
| c 3.4.......................................... | rs F2006L00239 |
| c 3.6.......................................... | ad F2006L00239 |
| Part 4 | |
| Division 1 | |
| c 4.1.......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| c 4.3.......................................... | rep F2006L00239 |
| Division 2 | |
| c 4.6.......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| c 4.7.......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| Part 5 | |
| Division 9 | |
| c 5.23......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| Division 18 | |
| c 5.38......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| ed C1 | |
| Part 6 | |
| Division 1 | |
| c 6.3.......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| ed C1 | |
| Division 4 | |
| c 6.12......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| c 6.14......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| c 6.16......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| c 6.20......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| ed C1 | |
| Part 7 | |
| Part 7 heading............................. | rs F2006L00239 |
| Division 1 | |
| Division 1 heading...................... | ad F2006L00239 |
| c 7.2.......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| c 7.3.......................................... | rep F2006L00239 |
| c 7.4.......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| ed C1 | |
| c 7.5.......................................... | ad F2006L00239 |
| Division 2 | |
| Division 2.................................. | ad F2006L00239 |
| c 7.6.......................................... | ad F2006L00239 |
| Part 8 | |
| c 8.2.......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| Part 9 | |
| Division 2 | |
| c 9.5.......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| c 9.6.......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| c 9.7.......................................... | rs F2006L00239 |
| c 9.9.......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| c 9.10......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| c 9.13......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
| ed C1 | |
| Part 10 | |
| Division 2 | |
| c 10.5A...................................... | ad F2006L00239 |
| Division 3 | |
| c 10.6......................................... | am F2006L00239 |
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