Green light for Automated Vehicles in Victoria

The Victorian State Government is leading the way on automated vehicle technology with historic legislation passing Victorian Parliament last week that allows driverless vehicles to be trialled across the state.

Under the changes to the Road Safety Act, VicRoads will be able to grant permits to individuals or organisations wanting to conduct on-road trials of automated vehicles.

This Legislation will encourage national and international industry leaders to develop this exciting, emerging technology here in Victoria – which means more jobs and opportunities for Victorians now.

Minister for Roads and Road Safety Luke Donnellan has also announced a $9 million grant program for researchers and industry, as part of the Towards Zero Road Strategy and Action Plan.

These grants will support the development of vehicles with connected and automated technology and safety features.

Automated vehicles will be a game-changer for Victorian roads – initially reducing and ultimately eliminating human driver error.

Under the new laws, all driverless vehicle trials will require a human supervisor to monitor the vehicle from either inside or outside the vehicle.

Once it has been established a vehicle can drive safely, this condition may be removed to allow the vehicle to drive in an automated mode in limited circumstances without a supervisor.

“We’re excited to support trials of automated vehicles, which will revolutionise the way we travel and move around our communities,” said VicRoads Acting Deputy Chief Executive, Robyn Seymour.

“This technology will save lives, and make our roads safer for all Victorians.”