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Feedback sought on regulations for powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters

By intouch * posted 22-08-2019 10:02

  

Austroads is investigating national regulations for motorised mobility devices, with a new discussion paper.

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 developed at national stakeholder workshops held in April this year, seeking to ensure the safety of mobility device users.

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 the discussion paper, email MMD_Consultation@tmr.qld.gov.au. Submissions close on 16 September 2019.

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