Bridget McKenzie (Victoria, National Party, Minister for Regional Services) Share this | Hansard source

I'd like to firstly thank all senators for their contribution to this debate on the Road Vehicle Standards Bill 2018 and related bills. This legislation delivers on five key principles that improve the regulation of road vehicle standards for the benefit of the Australian community: flexibility and responsiveness, given how fast the motor vehicle is already changing and how fast it's expected to continue to change; clarity, so that we reflect modern legal drafting standards to strengthen the existing regulatory framework, whilst improving transparency and decision-making; a greater choice of road vehicles for Australians; ensuring modern compliance and enforcement powers, improving safety and emission outcomes; and the continued harmonisation of Australian standards with international standards—a longstanding policy of Australian governments to reduce the regulatory impost on Australian industry and consumers.

For Australian manufacturers and importers of full-volume vehicles, these bills mean reduced red tape and streamlined certification processes. I recently met with the Caravan Industry Association of Australia, who are amongst the strongest advocates for this legislation, which will level the playing field for our Australian manufacturers. A strong Australian caravan industry means safer caravans, safer roads, improved consumer confidence and more jobs in manufacturing and tourism, particularly out in the regions, as more and more Australians with their caravans head outside capital cities to experience our fabulous beaches, mountains and country towns.

For Australian motoring enthusiasts, these bills mean that an increased range of specialist and enthusiast vehicles will become available and there will be reduced costs of regulatory compliance. This legislation will see, for example, people able to import and supply new and used electric vehicles that manufacturers have, for whatever reason, chosen not to provide to Australian consumers. This results in greater choice for Australian consumers but will not result in parallel imports of electric vehicles, ensuring protections for consumers wishing to use this pathway.

For the Australian community at large, these bills mean a better regulatory system capable of responding to the challenges of the future. They mean improved compliance with safety and environmental standards. Ultimately, these bills mean safer, cleaner and more secure vehicles for Australia. I commend the bills to the Senate.