Austroads is investigating the future of national regulation for motorised mobility devices, with a discussion paper released on 16th August 2019.

Following Standards Australia publishing a Technical Specification for motorised wheelchairs and mobility scooters in 2018, Austroads is exploring how this Technical Specification can be implemented to realise its intended safety benefits.

Through the discussion paper, Austroads is also addressing recommendations from the 2018 Senate Standing Committee on Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport’s Inquiry into the Need for regulation of mobility scooters, also known as motorised wheelchairs. This includes exploration of national licensing and registration arrangements for these devices and their users.

The discussion paper seeks feedback on a range of options that were developed at national stakeholder workshops held in April this year. These options seek to ensure the safety of mobility device users.

Austroads are using a consultative approach using stakeholders from user groups, industry and government areas across Australia.

The Technical Specification is currently a voluntary guideline, designed to improve safety. This is an opportunity for all stakeholders to consider the best way it can implemented.

Views are also sought from stakeholders on whether a national registration and licensing scheme for these devices is supported.

To comment on the options in this discussion paper, email [email protected]

Comments must be submitted using the document review template (Word doc).

Submissions will be accepted until 16 September 2019.

Link: Motorised Mobility Devices Discussion Paper

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