NTC releases CoR discussion paper

The National Transport Commission has published a discussion paper to assist the body in its review of the Chain of Responsibility regime

As a part of its on-going review of the Chain of Responsibility regime within the Heavy Vehicle National Law, the National Transport Commission has released a discussion paper on the subject to help inform the review process and ultimately help shape these laws to better promote road safety.

The Acting CEO of the NTC, Michelle Hendy, said the release of the discussion paper marked the next stage of the review, which began when the Transport and Infrastructure Ministerial Council established an independent taskforce to examine the area in 2013.

"The taskforce completed its broad review of CoR in June and found that CoR is working, but that the NTC should consider opportunities to improve the regime," Ms Hendy said.

"This discussion paper is part of the review and is designed to stimulate public debate about what needs improving, and how that improvement might best be achieved."

The discussion paper highlights a variety of issues with the CoR regime as identified by stakeholders through previous consultations, also suggesting a range of options to improve the regime.

"We’re looking to industry, road and enforcement agencies and other interested parties to consider the reform options in the paper, and to tell us what they think is the best way forward for CoR," Ms Hendy said.

"We’re also looking beyond the road transport industry for feedback on this issue. Farmers, retailers, mining and construction companies rely on heavy vehicles and could have an interest in any changes to the chain of responsibility obligations. We invite participation from these areas too."

The NTC is taking submissions on the discussion paper until January 30, 2015, with the feedback to inform the review's progress before a report is delivered to transport ministers in May 2015.

"We want to improve the CoR regime, make it easier for Australia’s transport industry to understand their obligations, comply with the laws and ultimately make sure heavy vehicle movements are effective, safe and legal," said Ms Hendy.

Click here to read the NTC's CoR discussions paper.

NTC releases CoR discussion paper

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