Report on QLG inaugural meeting held at Transport House on 31/08/09.

Following discussions between CVIAQ and Queensland Transport on ways to improve communication and information regarding industry proposals for change, the QLG was formed.

The group (QLG) is an informal group comprising of Department of Transport & Main Roads, CVIAQ and other stakeholders to discuss issues of topical importance and to consult and develop recommendations for consideration by each stakeholder.

The inaugural meeting was held at Transport House on Monday 31 August. On the agenda for discussion were the following points:
1. Use of Trade Plate on New Unregistered Vehicles- Revised Proposal by CVIAQ
2. Display of Correct GCM Rating on Vehicle Plate on certain upgraded new prime movers
3. Commencing Review of Heavy Vehicle Code VSB-6
4. Other topical matters of importance

The meeting was productive with discussion on these issues leading to good potential outcomes.

Dealer Plates

The Trade Plate Proposal by CVIAQ seems to have overcome most of the issues that were preventing its implementation. It now needs to be examined by the State Government Motor Accident Insurance Commission in case any of the changes proposed have a potential impact in that area.

It is expected that this issue may be able to be resolved at the next meeting pending on the MAIC comments being positive.

One major issue has been resolved that will allow a member to operate vehicles using a Dealer Plate. These vehicles have previously been transported by float at considerable expense.

GCM Rating

Queensland Transport advised that they are concerned with the practice of manufacturers issuing rating letters that increase the Gross Combination Mass of their prime movers above the amount specified on the vehicle identification plate.

Queensland Transport has considered refusal of these letters and only registering the vehicle to the GCM listed on the plate. Feedback from other States indicates that this issue is more widespread than just Queensland.

CVIAQ has been asked to obtain industry feedback on this issue and provide comment for the next meeting.
Manufacturers concerned with this issue should contact John Samson j.samson@cviaq.asn.au or phone 3376 6266.

VSB6 Review

While the industry has for some time been collecting information for the review of VSB6 the Federal Department of Transport has not yet formalised the arrangement and appointed a registration authority to act as the lead agency in the review.

The meeting discussed the willingness of Queensland Transport to fill this role and how to progress the review to the next step.

CVIAQ has contacted the Federal Administrator of Vehicle Standards to ensure that this important update is formally commenced as soon as is possible.

The next meeting will be held in the CVIAQ Board Room in early November. Members with issues they wish to refer to the forum please contact John Samson at CVIAQ.