Page title

An update of the Control of Vehicles (Off-road Areas) Act 1978 will make it easier and more convenient for riders to register their vehicles, introduce sticker or label registrations and increase penalties to deter illegal activity and anti-social behaviour.

Currently, ORV users are required to register in person at a Department of Transport licensing centre to sign a statutory declaration that they are at least 18 years of age, are the owner of the vehicle and will comply with relevant noise and safety requirements.

The proposed changes will remove this outdated and unnecessary requirement, so owners will be able to register online as soon as the system is set up to accept applications from ORV owners.

Apart from regulating registrations, the Act prohibits the use of ORVs in certain places and specifies areas where they are permitted to operate. The vehicles covered by these laws include trail bikes, quad bikes, all-terrain vehicles, and golf carts.

There will be an increase in all penalties to a maximum court-imposed fine of $5,000, up from the current $1,000. Penalties for offences under regulations and local laws will also allow for an increase to the minimum amount payable from $50 to $500.

The reforms should result in a greater uptake in ORV registrations which will make it easier for local governments to identify users and keep the community safe, as well as having a positive impact on the environment.