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made as part of the Motor Vehicles (Standards) Regulations under the Motor Vehicles Act.
Contents
Part 2 Application of the Vehicle Standards
7 Application to vehicles and combinations on
roads and road-related areas
8 What is a
road
9 What is a road-related area
10 Vehicles to which the Vehicle Standards
do not apply
11 Non-application of Vehicle
Standards — exemption under other laws
12
Non-application of Vehicle Standards — inconsistent ADR requirements
13 Non-application of Vehicle Standards —
Motor Vehicle Standards Act approvals
Part 3 Australian Design
Rules
Part 4 Adopted standards
24 What is an adopted standard
25 Reference to adopted standards
26 Exception to compliance with adopted standards
Part 5 General safety
requirements
Part 6 Vehicle marking
58 Vehicle and engine identification numbers
59 White or silver band on certain
vehicles
60 Warning signs for combinations
over 22 metres long
61 Warning signs not
to be displayed on other vehicles
62
Specifications for warning signs
63
Left-hand drive signs
Part 7 Vehicle configuration and
dimensions
Part 8 Lights and
reflectors
Part 9 Braking systems
Part 10 Control of
emissions
Part 11 LPG fuel systems
154 LPG-powered vehicles
Part 12 Maximum road speed limiting
155 Speed limiting
156 Exemptions from speed limiting
Part 13 Mechanical connections between
vehicles
Part 14 Other matters
172 Vehicle equipment
173 Restored vehicles
174
Retractable axles
175 Measurement of
distance between parallel lines
176
Interpretation of certain second edition ADRs
Dictionary 132
| Part 1 | Introductory |
Division 2 |
Some features of the Vehicle Standards |
Rule 6 |
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Introductory |
Part
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Some features of the
Vehicle Standards |
Division
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Rule 6 |
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Division 1 General
The ADRs (Australian Design Rules) are rules for designing and building vehicles. Imported vehicles must also comply with the ADRs.
The Vehicle Standards require a vehicle that is subject to an ADR when built or imported to continue to comply with the ADR.
The Vehicle Standards also apply certain other standards (adopted standards) that are intended to complement the ADRs.
The ADRs do not cover:
In most cases, if a vehicle complies with the Vehicle Standards, it is suitable for road use.
These regulations are the Australian Vehicle Standards Rules (the Vehicle
Standards).
2 Object of Vehicle Standards
(1) The object of the Vehicle Standards is to set standards, about the construction and performance of motor vehicles, trailers and combinations, that are uniform throughout Australia.
(2) The standards are intended:
(a) to promote, throughout the life of motor vehicles, trailers and combinations, their safe use and efficiency and the protection of the environment; and
(b) to reduce the cost of transport
administration.
Division 2 Some features of the Vehicle
Standards
3 Definitions — the dictionary etc
(1) The dictionary at the end of the Vehicle Standards defines certain words and expressions, and includes signpost definitions to words and expressions defined elsewhere in the Vehicle Standards.
(3) A definition in the Vehicle Standards
applies to each use of the word or expression in the Vehicle Standards,
unless the contrary intention appears.
4 Diagrams
(1) A diagram in the Vehicle Standards is part of the Vehicle Standards.
(2) A diagram of something (except the essential diagram in rule 165) is an illustrative example of the thing in black and white, but does not represent its dimensions or the dimensions of any part of it.
A note in the Vehicle Standards is explanatory
and is not part of the Vehicle Standards.
6 Examples
(1) An example (whether or not in the form of a diagram) in the Vehicle Standards is part of the Vehicle Standards.
(2) If the Vehicle Standards includes an example of the operation of a provision of the Vehicle Standards:
(a) the example is not exhaustive; and
(b) the example does not limit, and may extend, the meaning of the provision; and
(c) the example and the provision are to be
read in the context of each other and of the other provisions of the
Vehicle Standards, but, if the example and the provision as so read are
inconsistent, the provision prevails.
Part 2 Application of the Vehicle
Standards
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7 Application to vehicles and combinations on roads and road-related areas
The
Vehicle Standards apply to motor vehicles, trailers and combinations on
roads and road-related areas.
8 What is a road
A road is an area that is open
to or used by the public and is developed for, or has as one of its main
uses, the driving or riding of motor vehicles.
9 What is a road-related area
A road-related area is any of the following:
(a) an area that divides a road;
(b) a footpath or nature strip adjacent to a road;
(c) an area that is open to the public and is designated for use by cyclists or animals;
(d) an area that is not a road and that is open
to or used by the public for driving, riding or parking
vehicles.
10 Vehicles to which the Vehicle Standards do not apply
The Vehicle Standards do not apply to:
(a) a vehicle used only on a railway or tramway; or
(b) a vehicle designed to be controlled by a person walking next to it; or
(c) a vehicle propelled by a motor with a maximum power output of not over 200 watts; or
(d) a motorised wheelchair that cannot travel at over 10 kilometres an hour; or
(e) a vehicle or combination that is being repaired, or is being tested in the course of being repaired, so it will comply with the Vehicle Standards; or
(f) a vehicle or combination being driven or
towed directly to a place where it is to be repaired so it will comply
with the Vehicle Standards.
11 Non-application of Vehicle Standards — exemption under other laws
(1) A provision of the Vehicle Standards does not apply to a vehicle or combination if the vehicle or combination is exempt from:
(a) the provision under another law of this jurisdiction; or
(b) the corresponding provision of the law of another jurisdiction.
(2) However, the vehicle or combination is exempt only if all conditions of the exemption (if any) are being complied with.
An exemption permitting a greater dimension limit for a vehicle is subject to conditions about the route where, and times when, the vehicle is permitted to travel, and the escort vehicles required to accompany the vehicle. A relevant provision of the Vehicle Standards does not apply to the vehicle only if the conditions are complied with.
A provision of Parts 5 to 13 of the Vehicle Standards does not apply to a vehicle if:
(a) the provision is inconsistent with a requirement of a second or third edition ADR applying to the vehicle; and
(b) the vehicle complies with the
requirement.
13 Non-application of Vehicle Standards — Motor Vehicle Standards Act approvals
A provision of Parts 5 to 13 of the Vehicle Standards does not apply to a vehicle if:
(a) the vehicle does not comply with a requirement of an ADR applying to the vehicle; and
(b) the provision of the Vehicle Standards corresponds to the requirement of the ADR; and
(c) despite the non-compliance, approval has been given, under section 10A (2) or (3) of the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989 of the Commonwealth, to place identification plates on vehicles of that type; and
(d) the vehicle complies with the approval conditions (if any).
Note 2 Section 10A (3) of that Act 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 conditions are complied with.
| Part 3 | Australian Design Rules |
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Application of the
Vehicle Standards |
Part
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Under the Part, a vehicle that is subject to ADRs when it is built generally remains subject to the ADRs throughout its life. However, a vehicle need not comply with a standard if the standard is replaced by, or inconsistent with, a later standard and the vehicle complies with the later standard. Older vehicles may, therefore, be fitted with any equipment allowed on newer vehicles.
Vehicles that are modified must continue to comply with the Vehicle Standards.
The following provisions of the Vehicle Standards extend the application of particular second or third edition ADRs to vehicles to which the ADRs are not expressed to apply:
| Part 14 | Other matters |
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Rule 176 |
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Australian Design
Rules |
Part
3 |
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Interpretation |
Division
1 |
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Rule 18 |
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14 What is an ADR
An ADR (Australian Design Rule)
is a national standard.
15 What is a national standard
A national
standard is a national standard
under the Motor Vehicle Standards Act
1989 of the Commonwealth.
16 References to national standards
Unless the contrary intention appears, a
reference in the Vehicle Standards to a national standard is a reference
to the national standard as in force from time to time.
17 What is a second edition ADR
A second
edition ADR is a national standard
incorporated in the document described as the Australian Design Rules for Motor Vehicle Safety,
Second Edition originally published by
the then Commonwealth Department of Transport.
18 What is a third edition ADR
A third edition ADR is a
national standard incorporated in the document described as the
Australian Design Rules for Motor
Vehicles and Trailers, Third Edition published by the Federal Office of Road Safety of the Commonwealth
Department of Transport and Regional Development.
Division 2 Compliance with ADRs
19 Compliance with second edition ADRs
(1) If a second edition ADR recommends that the ADR should apply to the design and construction of a vehicle, the vehicle must comply with the ADR.
(2) If a second edition ADR contains a requirement for a type of equipment fitted to a vehicle built on or after a stated time any equipment of the same type fitted to the vehicle after it is built must comply with:
(a) the requirement as in force when the vehicle was built; or
(b) if the requirement is amended after the vehicle is built and before the equipment is fitted — the requirement as in force:
(i) when the vehicle was built; or
(ii) when the equipment was fitted; or
(iii) at any time between when the vehicle was built and the equipment was fitted.
(3) However, a vehicle, or equipment fitted to a vehicle, need not comply with a recommendation or requirement of a second edition ADR if:
(a) the recommendation or requirement is replaced by, or is inconsistent with, a requirement of a third edition ADR applying to the vehicle or equipment; and
(b) the vehicle or equipment complies with the requirement of the third edition ADR.
(4) If a second edition ADR allows a vehicle
built on or after a stated time to be fitted with equipment, a vehicle
built before the time may also be fitted with the equipment.
20 Compliance with third edition ADRs
(1) If a third edition ADR applies to the design and construction of a vehicle, the vehicle must comply with the ADR.
(2) If a third edition ADR contains a requirement for a type of equipment fitted to a vehicle built on or after a stated time, any equipment of the same type fitted to the vehicle after it is built must comply with:
(a) the requirement as in force when the vehicle was built; or
(b) if the requirement is amended after the vehicle is built and before the equipment is fitted — the requirement as in force:
(i) when the vehicle was built; or
(ii) when the equipment was fitted; or
(iii) at any time between when the vehicle was built and the equipment was fitted.
(3) However, a vehicle, or equipment fitted to a vehicle, need not comply with a requirement of a third edition ADR if:
(a) the requirement is replaced by, or is inconsistent with, a requirement of a later version of the ADR applying to the vehicle or equipment; and
(b) the vehicle or equipment complies with the requirement of the later version.
(4) If a third edition ADR allows a vehicle
built on or after a stated time to be fitted with equipment, a vehicle
built before the time may also be fitted with the equipment.
21 Exception to compliance with ADRs — vehicles that are not road vehicles
A vehicle need not comply with
an ADR applied by rule 19 (1) or 20 (1) if a determination or declaration
under section 5B of the Motor Vehicle
Standards Act 1989 of the Commonwealth
provides that the vehicle is not a road vehicle for that Act.
22 Exception to compliance with ADRs — Motor Vehicle Standards Act
(1) A vehicle need not comply with an ADR applied by rule 19 (1) or 20 (1) if:
(a) despite non-compliance with the ADR, approval has been given, under section 10A (2) or (3) of the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989 of the Commonwealth, to place identification plates on vehicles of that type; and
(b) the vehicle complies with the approval conditions (if any).
(a) the vehicle may be supplied to the market under subsection 14A (1) of the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989 of the Commonwealth; and
(b) for a vehicle for which an approval has been given under that subsection — the vehicle complies with the approval conditions (if any).
(3) A vehicle need not comply with an ADR applied by rule 19 (1) or 20 (1) if:
(a) the vehicle may be used in transport in Australia under subsection 15 (2) of the Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989 of the Commonwealth; and
(b) for a vehicle for which an approval has
been given under that subsection — the vehicle complies with the approval
conditions (if any).
23 Partial exception to compliance with ADRs — personally imported vehicles
(1) In this rule:
(b) when the vehicle was imported into Australia, was:
(i) an Australian citizen or permanent resident or a person who had applied to become an Australian citizen or permanent resident; and
(ii) old enough to hold a licence or permit to drive the vehicle; and
(c) within the previous year, had not imported into Australia another vehicle owned by the person.
(2) A personally imported vehicle must be fitted with:
(a) seat belts that are as effective as seat belts that meet an Australian Standard or British Standard for seat belts as in force when this rule commenced; and
(b) seat belt anchorages that meet the number and location requirements of second or third edition ADR 5; and
(c) child restraint anchorages that meet the number, location, accessibility, thread size and form requirements of second edition ADR 34 or third edition ADR 5 or 34; and
(d) head restraints that meet the number, location and size requirements of second or third edition ADR 22.
(3) However, a personally imported vehicle need only meet the requirements of an ADR mentioned in subrule (2) if the ADR recommends that it should apply, or applies, to a vehicle of the same type.
(4) A
personally imported vehicle need not otherwise comply with an ADR applied
by rule 19 (1) or 20 (1).
Part 4 Adopted
standards
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24 What is an adopted standard
An adopted standard is a standard, except a national standard, that is applied, adopted or incorporated by the Vehicle Standards.
Rule 62 (7) adopts Australian Standard AS 1906 Retro-reflective Materials and Devices for Road Traffic Control Purposes.
Unless the contrary intention appears, a
reference in a rule or subrule to an adopted standard is a reference to
the standard as in force when the rule or subrule commenced.
26 Exception to compliance with adopted standards
A vehicle need not comply with an adopted standard if:
(a) the standard is replaced by, or is inconsistent with, a later version of the standard; and
(b) the vehicle complies with the later version
of the standard.
Part 5 General safety requirements
This Part sets out various requirements covering the driver's view from a vehicle, the driver's control of a vehicle, protection of vehicle occupants and other road users, and other general safety features.
27 Steering
(1) A motor vehicle with a GVM over 4.5 tonnes must have a right-hand drive.
(2) A motor vehicle with a GVM not over 4.5 tonnes must have a right-hand drive if the vehicle:
(a) is less than 30 years old; and
(b) is required under a law of this jurisdiction to have a right-hand drive.
(3) A motor vehicle has a right-hand drive if the centre of at least 1 steering control of the vehicle is to the right of, or in line with, the centre of the vehicle.
(4) 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.
(5) Failure of a non-mechanical component of the steering system must not prevent effective steering of the vehicle.
(6) This rule does not apply to a vehicle if
the vehicle is built or used mainly for a purpose other than the transport
of goods or people by road.
28 Turning ability
(1) A motor vehicle must be able to turn in a circle not over 25 metres in diameter, measured by the outer edge of the tyre track at ground level.
(2) The vehicle must be able to comply with
subrule (1) whether it turns to the left or to the right.
29 Ability to travel backwards and forwards
A motor vehicle with an unloaded mass over 450
kilograms must be able to be driven both backwards and forwards when the
driver is in the normal driving position.
30 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) However, subrule (1) does not apply to an object fitted to a vehicle if:
(a) the vehicle was designed before 1965 and the object was part of the design of the vehicle; or
(b) the object was fitted to the vehicle before
1965 in accordance with the law of the place where the object was
fitted.
31 Driver's view and vehicle controls
A motor vehicle must be built:
(a) to allow the driver a view of the road and of traffic to the front and sides of the vehicle so the driver can drive the vehicle safely; and
(b) with its controls located so the driver can
drive the vehicle safely.
32 Seating
A seat for a driver or passenger
in a vehicle must be securely attached to the vehicle.
33 Mudguards and spray suppression
(1) A vehicle must have firmly fitted:
(a) a mudguard for each wheel or for adjacent wheels; and
(b) for each axle group and single axle on a vehicle that is part of a B-double — spray suppression devices complying with Parts 1 and 2 of British Standard AU200-1984 Spray Reducing Devices for Heavy Goods Vehicle.
(2) However, subrule (1) (a) does not apply to a vehicle if:
(a) the construction or use of the vehicle makes the fitting of mudguards unnecessary or impracticable; or
(b) the body or part of the body of the vehicle acts as a mudguard.
1. Timber jinkers.
2. Most road-making plant.
3. Some agricultural equipment.
(a) reduce the danger of a person contacting the moving wheels; and
(b) for the rear wheels:
(i) cover the overall tyre width of the wheel or wheels to which it is fitted; and
(ii) be fitted so the height above ground level of the lowest edge of the rear of the mudguard is not over one-third of the horizontal distance between the edge and the centre of the rearmost axle.
(4) However, a mudguard may be up to:
(a) 230 millimetres above ground level; or
(b) on a vehicle built to be used off road — 300 millimetres above ground level.
(5) The outside of a rear mudguard, except a mudflap, of a vehicle that can be seen from the rear of the vehicle must be coloured white or silver if the vehicle:
(a) is at least 2.2 metres wide; and
(b) has a body the vertical measurement of which is under 300 millimetres at the rear, measured from the lowest point of the body above ground level to the highest point; and
(c) is not fitted with rear marking plates in accordance with rule 119.
(6) For subrule (5) (a), the width of a vehicle
is measured disregarding any anti-skid device mounted on wheels, central
tyre inflation systems, lights, mirrors, reflectors, signalling devices
and tyre pressure gauges.
34 Horns, alarms etc
(1) A motor vehicle must be fitted with at least 1 horn or other device that can give sufficient audible warning to other road users of the approach or position of the vehicle.
(2) A motor vehicle must not be fitted with a device that can make a sound like the sound of a siren, bell, exhaust whistle, compression whistle or repeater horn.
(3) However, subrule (2) does not apply to:
(a) a police vehicle; or
(b) an emergency vehicle; or
(c) a transport enforcement vehicle; or
(d) an Australian Protective Service vehicle; or
(e) an Australian Customs Service vehicle; or
(f) an Airservices Australia vehicle; or
(g) a vehicle at least 25 years old that is fitted as a police or emergency vehicle if:
(i) the vehicle is used for exhibition purposes; or
(ii) it is part of a collection of former police or emergency vehicles; or
(h) an anti-theft alarm if the alarm cannot be operated while the vehicle's ignition is on.
(4) Also, a motor vehicle may be fitted with a device that emits a regular, intermittent sound while the vehicle is reversing or in reverse gear.
(5) The device must not be louder than is
necessary so the driver, and a person near the vehicle, can hear the
device when it is operating.
35 Rear vision mirrors
(1) A rear vision mirror or mirrors must be fitted to a motor vehicle as required by this rule so that a driver of the vehicle can clearly see by reflection the road behind the vehicle and any following or overtaking vehicle.
(2) At least 1 rear vision mirror must be fitted to:
(a) a car; and
(b) a motor trike with 2 front wheels; and
(c) a motor bike, or motor trike with 1 front wheel, built before July 1975.
(3) At least 1 rear vision mirror must be fitted to each side of:
(a) a motor vehicle with a GVM over 3.5 tonnes; and
(b) a motor bike, or motor trike with 1 front wheel, built after June 1975.
(4) A motor vehicle with a GVM not over 3.5 tonnes (except a motor vehicle mentioned in subrule (2) or (3)) must be fitted with:
(a) at least 1 rear vision mirror on the right side of the vehicle; and
(b) at least 1 rear vision mirror on the left side of the vehicle or inside the vehicle.
(5) A rear vision mirror fitted to a motor vehicle with a GVM over 3.5 tonnes must not project over 150 millimetres beyond the widest part (excluding lights, signalling devices and reflectors) of the vehicle or combination.
(6) However, the rear vision mirror may project
not over 230 millimetres beyond the widest part of the vehicle or
combination if it can fold to project not over 150 millimetres beyond the
widest part.
36 Rear vision mirrors — surfaces
(1) A rear vision mirror required to be fitted to the side of a motor vehicle with a GVM over 3.5 tonnes must have a reflecting surface of at least 150 square centimetres.
(2) A rear vision mirror required to be fitted to the right side of a motor vehicle with a GVM over 3.5 tonnes must have a flat reflecting surface if:
(a) the motor vehicle has only 1 steering control; and
(b) the centre of the steering control is to the right of, or in line with, the centre of the motor vehicle.
(3) The reflecting surface of the rear vision mirrors that are required to be fitted to a motor bike or moped must:
(a) each be of the same curvature; and
(b) if convex, be part of a notional sphere
with a radius of at least 1.2 metres.
37 Additional rear vision mirrors
A motor vehicle may be fitted with additional
rear vision mirrors or mirror surfaces that are flat or convex or a
combination of flat and convex surfaces.
38 Automatic transmission
(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 built after 1975 that is fitted with an automatic transmission must have an indicator in the driver's compartment showing the transmission control position.
(3) Subrules (1) and (2) do not apply to a
motor vehicle with less than 4 wheels.
39 Diesel engines
A motor vehicle propelled by a
compression ignition engine (commonly known as a diesel engine) must be
fitted with a device preventing the engine from being started accidentally
or inadvertently.
40 Bonnet securing devices
(1) A motor vehicle with a moveable body panel forward of the windscreen that covers an engine or luggage storage or battery compartment, must have 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 have primary and secondary devices
to secure the panel.
41 Electrical wiring, connections and installations
(1) The wiring of electrical equipment of a vehicle, except the high tension ignition wiring, must:
(a) be supported at intervals of not over 600 millimetres, unless the vehicle is a pole-type trailer with a pole with an adjustable length, or an extendible trailer; and
(b) be insulated at each of its joints; and
(c) be located where it cannot:
(i) become overheated; or
(ii) contact moving parts; or
(iii) come near enough to the fuel system to be a fire hazard; and
(d) be protected from chafing.
(2) The electrical connectors between motor vehicles and
trailers, for operation of the vehicle lights required by the Vehicle 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 towing vehicle.
(4) The electrical wiring, connections and
installations of a semi-trailer, dog trailer or converter dolly used in a
road train over 19 metres long after June 1998 must comply with third
edition ADR 63, whether or not it was built before the date stated in the
ADR for vehicles of that type.
42 Television receivers and visual display units
(1) A television receiver or visual display unit must not be installed in a vehicle so any part of the image on the screen is visible to the driver from the normal driving position.
(2) However, subrule (1) does not apply to:
(a) a television receiver or visual display unit that cannot be operated when the vehicle is moving; or
(b) a driver's aid in any vehicle or a destination sign in a bus.
1. Closed-circuit television security cameras.
2. Dispatch systems.
3. Navigational or intelligent highway and vehicle system equipment.
4. Rearview screens.
5. Ticket-issuing machines.
6. Vehicle monitoring devices.
(a) does not obscure the driver's view of the road; and
(b) does not impede the movement of a person in
the vehicle.
43 Windscreens and windows
(1) Transparent material used in a windscreen, window, or an interior partition, of a motor vehicle must be of approved material if:
(a) the vehicle was built after June 1953; or
(b) the material was first fitted to the vehicle after June 1953.
(2) In this rule:
(1) Glazing used in a windscreen of a motor vehicle must have a luminous transmittance of at least:
(a) for a motor vehicle built after 1971 — 75%; or
(b) for another motor vehicle — 70%.
(2) Windscreen glazing of a motor vehicle must not be coated in a way that reduces its luminous transmittance.
(3) However, subrules (1) and (2) do not apply to the greater of the following areas of a windscreen:
(a) the area above the highest point of the windscreen that is swept by a windscreen wiper;
(b) the upper 10% of the windscreen.
(4) Glazing used in a window or interior partition of a motor vehicle must have a luminous transmittance of at least 70%.
(5) Glazing behind the rear of the driver's seat may be coated to achieve a luminous transmittance of not less than 35%.
(6) Glazing in a side window forward of the rear of the driver's seat may be coated to achieve a luminous transmittance of not less than 70% or, if another law of this jurisdiction allows a lesser luminous transmittance, the greater of:
(a) the lesser luminous transmittance allowed under the other law; and
(b) 35%.
(7) Glazing that has been coated to reduce its luminous transmittance must not have a reflectance of over 10%.
(8) The luminous transmittance requirements in subrules (5) and (6) apply to a vehicle instead of the corresponding requirements in the relevant ADR.
(9) In this rule:
luminous transmittance, for glazing, means the amount of light that can pass through the glazing as a percentage of the amount of light that would be transmitted if the glazing were absent.
(1) A motor vehicle with 3 or more wheels that is fitted with a windscreen must be fitted with at least 1 windscreen wiper unless a driver in a normal driving position can obtain an adequate view of the road ahead of the motor vehicle without looking through the windscreen.
(2) At least 1 windscreen wiper fitted to the motor vehicle must:
(a) be able to remove moisture from the part of the windscreen in front 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 from a normal driving position; and
(c) for a motor vehicle built after 1934 — continue to operate until the wiper is switched off; and
(d) for a motor vehicle built after 1959 the driving position of which is nearer one side of the vehicle than the other:
(i) be able to remove moisture from the part of the windscreen in front of the driver, and a corresponding part of the windscreen on the other side of the centre of the motor vehicle, to allow the driver an adequate view of the road ahead of the motor vehicle when the windscreen is wet; and
(ii) if the windscreen wipers are operated by engine manifold vacuum — be provided with a vacuum reservoir or pump to maintain the efficient operation of the wiper or wipers while the vehicle is in motion.
(3) If the motor vehicle was built after 1982 and has a GVM over 4.5 tonnes, it must also be fitted with a windscreen washer that can direct water onto the windscreen within the area swept by a windscreen wiper so the wiper can spread the water to all of the area swept by the wiper.
46 Wheels and tyres — size and capacity
The wheels and tyres fitted to
an axle of a vehicle must be of sufficient size and capacity to carry the
part of the vehicle's gross mass transmitted to the ground through the
axle.
47 Pneumatic tyres generally
A vehicle
built after 1932 must be fitted with pneumatic tyres.
48 Pneumatic tyres — carcass construction
(1) A vehicle with a GVM not over 4.5 tonnes must not have pneumatic tyres of different carcass construction fitted to the same axle, but the tyres may have different cord materials and a different number of plies.
(2) However, subrule (1) does not apply to a
tyre being used in an emergency as a temporary replacement for a tyre
complying with the subrule.
49 Pneumatic tyres — size and capacity
The size and capacity of a pneumatic tyre to be fitted to a vehicle must be decided using a cold inflation pressure that is not more than the lesser of:
(a) the pressure recommended by the tyre manufacturer; and
(b) a pressure of:
(i) for a radial ply tyre — 825 kilopascals; or
(ii) for another tyre — 700
kilopascals.
50 Tyres — defects
A tyre fitted to a vehicle must be free of any
apparent defect that could make the vehicle unsafe.
51 Tyres for use on vehicles with GVM over 4.5 tonnes
(1) A tyre fitted to a vehicle with a GVM over 4.5 tonnes must be suitable for road use at the lesser of:
(a) 100 kilometres an hour; and
(b) the vehicle's top speed.
(2) This rule applies to a vehicle instead of
the tyre speed category requirements in the relevant ADR.
52 Tyres — manufacturer's rating
(1) This rule applies to a motor vehicle if the vehicle:
(a) has 4 or more wheels; and
(b) was built after 1972; and
(c) has a GVM not over 4.5 tonnes.
(2) However, this rule does not apply to a tyre if the tyre:
(a) is recommended by the vehicle builder as suitable for limited use on the vehicle in special circumstances at a speed less than the speed applying to the vehicle under subrule (3); or
(b) is being used in an emergency as a temporary replacement for a tyre complying with this rule.
(3) A tyre fitted to a motor vehicle must, when first manufactured, have been rated by the tyre manufacturer as suitable for road use at the lesser of:
(a) a speed of at least:
(i) for a car with special features for off-road use — 140 kilometres an hour; or
(ii) for another car — 180 kilometres an hour; or
(iii) for another motor vehicle — 120 kilometres an hour; and
(b) the vehicle's top speed.
A four-wheel drive vehicle.
53 Retreads
(1) A tyre that is retreaded before the commencement of this rule must not be used on a vehicle if:
(a) Australian Standard AS 1973-1976 Retreaded Pneumatic Passenger Car and Light Truck Tyre or Australian Standard AS 1973-1985 Retreaded Pneumatic Passenger and Light Truck Tyre applies to the tyre; and
(b) the tyre was retreaded after publication of the Australian Standard; and
(c) the tyre was not retreaded in accordance with Australian Standard AS 1973-1976 Retreaded Pneumatic Passenger Car and Light Truck Tyre, Australian Standard AS 1973-1985 Retreaded Pneumatic Passenger and Light Truck Tyre or Australian Standard AS 1973-1993 Pneumatic Tyres — Passenger Car, Light Truck and Truck/Bus — Retreading and Repair Processes.
(2) A tyre that is retreaded after the commencement of this rule must not be used on a vehicle if:
(a) Australian Standard AS 1973-1993 Pneumatic Tyres — Passenger Car, Light Truck and Truck/Bus — Retreading and Repair Processes applies to the tyre; and
(b) the tyre was not retreaded in accordance with the Australian Standard.
(1) A tyre on a motor vehicle must not have cleats or other gripping devices that could damage road surfaces.
(2) Except at tread wear indicators, a tyre fitted to the vehicle must have a tread pattern at least 1.5 millimetres deep in a band that runs continuously:
(a) across:
(i) for a vehicle with a GVM over 4.5 tonnes — at least 75% of the tyre width that normally comes into contact with the road; or
(ii) for another vehicle — 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 recutting or regrooving the tread rubber, unless the tyre was:
(a) constructed with an extra thickness of rubber designed for recutting or regrooving; and
(b) labelled to indicate the
construction.
Division 2 Additional requirements for motor bikes
55 Steering gear and handlebars
(1) The handlebars on a motor bike must extend at least 250 millimetres, but not over 450 millimetres, on each side of the centre line of the vehicle.
(2) In taking a measurement for subrule (1), mirrors and lights mounted on the handlebars of the motor bike are disregarded.
(3) The lowest part of the hand grip on the handle bars must not be higher than 380 millimetres above the attachment point of the handlebars to the motor bike.
(4) Hand grips on the handle bars must be fitted symmetrically.
(5) If a motor bike has the head stem as the steering pivot point, the horizontal distance from the midpoint between the head stem bearings to the centre of the front wheel must not be over 550 millimetres.
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A motor bike must be fitted with foot rests for
the driver, and for any passenger for whom a seating position is
provided.
57 Chain guards
(1) If the engine power of a motor bike is transmitted to the rear wheel by a chain, the driver and any passenger must be protected from the front sprocket and at least the upper part of the chain by:
(a) the frame or equipment of the motor bike; or
(b) a chain guard.
(2) A chain guard must cover the chain to a point:
(a) at least 300 millimetres to the rear of the rearmost foot rest; or
(b) above the centre of the rear drive
sprocket.
Part 6 Vehicle
marking
Do not delete : Division
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(1) In this rule:
(3) A motor vehicle built after 1930 must have the engine identification number on its engine block or the main component of its engine.
(4) A vehicle must have an individual vehicle identification number clearly stamped, embossed or otherwise permanently marked on a substantial part of its frame or chassis.
(5) A vehicle or engine identification number
must be located where a person can read it easily without having to use
tools to remove a part of the vehicle that would otherwise obstruct the
person's view.
59 White or silver band on certain vehicles
(1) This rule applies to a vehicle that:
(a) is at least 2.2 metres wide; and
(b) has a body with a vertical measurement under 300 millimetres at the rear, measured from the lowest point of the body above ground level to the highest point; and
(c) is not fitted with rear marking plates in accordance with rule 119.
(2) For subrule (1) (a), the width of a vehicle is measured disregarding any anti-skid device mounted on wheels, central tyre inflation systems, lights, mirrors, reflectors, signalling devices and tyre pressure gauges.
(3) The vehicle 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.
60 Warning signs for combinations over 22 metres long
(1) The following vehicles must display road train warning signs complying with this rule and rule 62:
(a) a combination over 36.5 metres long;
(b) a road train over 30 metres, but not over 36.5 metres, long that includes 1 or more dog trailers.
(2) The following vehicles must display road train warning signs, or a long vehicle warning sign, complying with this rule and rule 62:
(a) a road train over 22 metres, but not over 30 metres, long that includes 1 or more dog trailers;
(b) a road train over 22 metres, but not over 36.5 metres, long that does not include a dog trailer.
(3) Another combination over 22 metres, but not over 36.5 metres, long must display a long vehicle warning sign complying with this rule and rule 62.
(4) Subrules (1), (2) and (3) do not apply to the extent of any inconsistency with a notice or permit issued under another law of this jurisdiction that applies to the combination.
(5) Road train warning signs must be used in pairs and fitted horizontally, one at the front and the other at the rear of the combination.
(6) A long vehicle warning sign must be fitted
horizontally at the rear of the combination.
61 Warning signs not to be displayed on other vehicles
(1) A road train warning sign must not be displayed on a vehicle unless the vehicle is part of a combination or road train mentioned in rule 60 (1) or (2).
(2) A long vehicle warning sign must not be
displayed on a vehicle unless the vehicle is a part of a combination or
road train mentioned in rule 60 (2) or (3).
62 Specifications for warning signs
(1) A road train or long vehicle warning sign must be manufactured in 1 or 2 parts from sheet steel 0.8 millimetres thick or another material of at least the same stiffness, unless it is designed to be fixed to a vehicle using an adhesive.
(2) The warning sign must be at least 1.02 metres wide and at least 250 millimetres high.
(3) A road train warning sign must display the words 'road train', and a long vehicle warning sign must display the words 'long vehicle', in black capital letters at least 180 millimetres high in typeface Series B (N) that complies with Australian Standard AS 1744 Forms of Letters and Numerals for Road Signs.
(4) If the warning sign is in 2 parts, one word of the expression 'road train' or 'long vehicle' must be on one part and the other word of the expression must be on the other part.
(5) The warning sign must display the sign manufacturer's name or logo, and the brand and class of retro-reflective material used, in block letters not over 10 millimetres high.
(6) The warning sign must have a black border.
(7) The warning sign must be coated with yellow retro-reflective material of class 1 or 2 that meets Australian Standard AS 1906 Retro-reflective Materials and Devices for Road Traffic Control Purposes.
(8) The warning sign must be fitted so:
(a) no part of the sign is:
(i) over 1.8 metres above ground level; or
(ii) under 500 millimetres above ground level; and
(b) if the sign is in 2 parts — the parts are fitted at the same height above ground level.
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(1) This rule applies to a motor vehicle with a GVM over 4.5 tonnes that has the centre of a steering control to the left of the centre of the vehicle.
(2) The vehicle must display the words 'left hand drive' on the rear of the vehicle.
(3) The words must be in letters at least 75
millimetres high, and in a colour contrast with the background to the
words.
Part 7 Vehicle configuration and dimensions
Generally, the limits in this Part apply to a vehicle and any load it may be carrying.
Specific requirements for loaded vehicles are covered by other laws.
64 Axle configuration
(1) A motor vehicle, except an articulated bus, must have only:
(a) 1 axle group, or single axle, towards the front of the vehicle; and
(b) 1 axle group, or single axle, towards the rear of the vehicle.
(2) An articulated bus must have:
(a) on its front section:
(i) only 1 axle group, or single axle, towards the front of the section; and
(ii) only 1 axle group, or single axle, towards the rear of the section; and
(b) on another section — only 1 axle group or single axle.
(3) A trailer must have only:
(a) 1 axle group or single axle; or
(b) 2 axle groups, 2 single axles, or 1 axle group and single axle, in the following configuration:
(i) 1 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;
(ii) 1 axle group, or single axle, towards the rear of the vehicle.
(4) 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 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 the device is mounted on the chassis of the vehicle; and
(iii) is fitted with a visible or audible warning system to indicate to a person standing beside the vehicle that the device is not engaged; and
(iv) is fitted with a way of preventing loss of air from the air brake supply, if the device uses air from the brake system and fails in a way allowing air to escape; and
(v) is held in the applied position by direct mechanical action without the intervention of an electric, hydraulic or pneumatic device; and
(b) be built so the adjustable parts of the
vehicle remain connected if the securing device fails.
65 Relation between axles in axle group
(1) The axles in an axle group, except a twinsteer axle group, fitted to a vehicle with a GVM over 4.5 tonnes must relate to each other through a load-sharing suspension system.
(2) In this rule:
(b) has effective damping characteristics on
all axles of the group.
Division 2 Dimensions
66 Width
(1) A vehicle must not be over 2.5 metres wide.
(2) For subrule (1), the width of a vehicle is
measured without taking into account any anti-skid device mounted on
wheels, central tyre inflation systems, lights, mirrors, reflectors,
signalling devices and tyre pressure gauges.
67 Length of single motor vehicles
(1) A motor vehicle, except an articulated or controlled access bus, must not be over 12.5 metres long.
(2) A controlled access bus must not be over 14.5 metres long.
(3) An articulated bus must not be over 18
metres long.
68 Length 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 over 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 over 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.
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(4) A trailer built to carry cattle, sheep, pigs or horses on 2 or more partly or completely overlapping decks must not have over 12.5 metres of its length available for the carriage of animals.
(5) For subrule (4), the length available for
the carriage of animals on a trailer is 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 disregarded.
69 Length of combinations
(1) A combination must not be over:
(a) for a B-double — 25 metres long; and
(b) for a road train — 53.5 metres long; and
(c) for a combination, except a road train, designed to carry vehicles on 2 or more partly or completely overlapping decks — 25 metres long; and
(d) for another combination — 19 metres long.
(2) In a B-double built to carry cattle, sheep, pigs or horses, the 2 semi-trailers must not have over 18.8 metres of their combined length available for the carriage of animals.
(3) For subrule (2), the length available for
the carriage of animals on a trailer is 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 disregarded.
70 Rear overhang
(1) The rear overhang of a semi-trailer, or 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 2 or more points of articulation at the front must comply with subrule (1) when measured at the same point used for measurement for compliance with rule 68 (3).
(3) The rear overhang of a trailer with only 1 axle group or single axle (except 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 mentioned in subrule (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.
71 Trailer 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 of the front single axle of the trailer, must:
(a) not be over 5 metres; and
(b) not be under 3 metres, if the trailer is
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72 Height
(1) A vehicle must not be over 4.3 metres high.
(2) However:
(a) a vehicle built to carry cattle, sheep, pigs or horses must not be over 4.6 metres high; and
(b) a double-deck bus must not be over 4.4
metres high.
73 Ground clearance
(1) In this rule:
(a) at least 100 millimetres at any point within 1 metre of an axle; and
(b) at least one-thirtieth of the distance between the centres of adjacent axles at the midpoint between them; and
(c) at any other point — at least the distance that allows the vehicle or combination to pass over a peak in the road with a gradient on either side of 1:15, if the wheels of 1 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.
(3) However, subrule (2) does not apply to:
(a) a motor vehicle with less than 4 wheels; or
(b) a combination that includes a motor vehicle
with less than 4 wheels.
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Other laws provide for when certain lights must be switched on.
In this Part, the description 'yellow' is used as a more modern term, instead of the description 'amber' which is used in earlier legislation and some ADRs.
74 Certain requirements apply only at night
The requirements of this Part for a light,
except a brake or direction indicator light, to be visible over a stated
distance apply only at night.
75 Prevention of glare
A light, except a high-beam headlight, fitted
to a vehicle must be built and adjusted to provide the necessary amount of
light, without dazzling the driver of another vehicle approaching, or
being approached by, the vehicle.
76 Pairs of lights
(1) If lights are required under the Vehicle Standards to be fitted to a vehicle in pairs:
(a) a light must be fitted on each side of the longitudinal axis of the vehicle; and
(b) the centre of each light in a pair must be the same distance from the longitudinal axis of the vehicle; and
(c) the centre of each light in a pair must be at the same height above ground level; and
(d) each light in a pair must project approximately the same amount of light of the same colour.
(2) Subrule (1) applies to a motor bike with an
attached sidecar as if the sidecar were not attached.
Division 2 Headlights
77 Headlights to be fitted to vehicles
(1) A motor vehicle must be fitted with:
(a) 1 low-beam headlight if it is a moped, motor bike, or motor trike with 1 front wheel; or
(b) a pair of low-beam headlights if it has 4 or more wheels or is a motor trike, except a moped, with 2 front wheels.
(2) If a motor vehicle built after 1934 can travel at over 60 kilometres an hour:
(a) each low-beam headlight mentioned in subrule (1) must be able to work in the high-beam position; or
(b) the vehicle must be fitted with:
(i) 1 headlight that can work in the high-beam position if the vehicle is required to have 1 low-beam headlight; or
(ii) a pair of headlights that can work in the high-beam position.
(3) A motor bike may be equipped with a headlight modulation system that:
(a) varies the brightness of its high-beam headlight or low-beam headlight, but not both, at a rate of at least 200 and at most 280 flashes a minute; and
(b) is designed to operate only in the daylight.
(4) Additional headlights may be fitted to a motor bike or motor trike, or a motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels that was built before 1970.
(5) Additional pairs of headlights may be fitted to a motor vehicle
with 4 or more wheels that was built after 1969.
78 How headlights are to be fitted
(1) The centres of low-beam headlights fitted as a pair on a motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels must be at least 600 millimetres apart.
(2) However, subrule (1) does not apply to a motor vehicle built before 1970 if the centres of its low-beam headlights:
(a) were under 600 millimetres apart when the vehicle was built; and
(b) are not nearer than they were when the vehicle was built.
(3) Each low-beam headlight of a pair on a motor trike (except a moped) with 2 front wheels must not be over 400 millimetres from the nearer side of the vehicle.
(4) The centre of a low-beam headlight fitted to a motor vehicle built after June 1953 must be:
(a) at least 500 millimetres above ground level; and
(b) not over 1.4 metres above ground
level.
79 How single headlights are to be fitted
(1) A motor bike or trike with a single headlight fitted must have the light fitted in the centre.
(2) Subrule (1) applies to a motor bike with an
attached sidecar as if the sidecar were not attached.
80 How additional headlights are to be fitted
If 2 or more additional headlights are fitted
to a motor vehicle with 4 or more wheels, the additional headlights must
as far as possible be fitted in pairs.
81 Performance of headlights
(1) When on, a headlight, or additional headlight, fitted to a vehicle must:
(a) show only white light; and
(b) project its main beam of light ahead of the vehicle.
(2)
Headlights must be fitted to a vehicle so their light does not reflect off
the vehicle into the driver's eyes.
82 Effective range of headlights
(1) This rule applies to a headlight that is on at night.
(2) A low-beam headlight must illuminate the road ahead of the vehicle for at least 25 metres.
(3) A high-beam headlight must illuminate the road ahead of the vehicle for at least 50 metres.
(4) However, a low-beam headlight fitted to a
motor vehicle built before 1931, or a moped, need only illuminate the road
ahead of the vehicle for 12 metres.
83 Changing headlights from high-beam to low-beam position
(1) A motor vehicle built after 1934 that can travel at over 60 kilometres an hour must be fitted with:
(a) a dipping device enabling the driver in the normal driving position:
(i) to change the headlights from the high-beam position to the low-beam position; or
(ii) simultaneously to switch off a high-beam headlight and switch on a low-beam headlight; a