Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is an ADR?

An ADR is an Australian Design Rule for vehicle safety, emissions, theft prevention and fuel consumption labelling. A copy of the ADRs is available from the department website

Q2. What is an ADR evidence package and why does a RAW applicant need one?

A workshop applying to become a RAW needs to have information to show that after modification, their vehicles will meet all applicable ADRs in accordance with the Motor Vehicle Standards Act, its Regulations and Determinations and this information may be considered to be a complete evidence package.

Q3. Where can an ADR evidence package be obtained?

A RAW is required to have a thorough knowledge of the information contained in their evidence package. For this reason, many RAW applicants invest resources to develop their own information packages. There are a number of independent organisations and consultants that offer evidence packages

Q4. Are Japanese, American, Canadian or European standards acceptable to show compliance with ADRs?

For some ADRs compliance with these standards is acceptable. The details of the extent to which they are acceptable is shown in the Approval to Place Used Import Plates Determination which can be accessed through the RAWS website and the legislation link on the left hand side of the screen.

Q5. Can anyone import a car for testing purposes?

No. Only RAWs or RAW applicants are permitted to make an application to import a used vehicle and the model to be imported must be shown in the SEVS Register. Information on becoming a RAW applicant and information on vehicles on the SEVS register is available on the RAWS website.

Q6. Can a vehicle that is 5 or more years old at the time of import and currently in Australia be used as a RAWS test vehicle?

Yes, provided that the vehicle or components to be tested are representative of the vehicles to be plated.

Q7. Does an application to become a RAW include the submission of a business plan?

No.

Q8. Does a conviction for grievous bodily harm disqualify a person as a fit and proper person?

Not automatically. However, the legislation does not limit the matters that may be taken into account in deciding if a person is a fit and proper person.

Q9. Can a RAW applicant share a workshop with another organization that is not a RAW?

Yes.

Q10. Why are fees associated with RAWS so high?

Fees are set by legislation on a cost recovery basis.

Q11. How long does it take to become a RAW?

The process of becoming a RAW has a number of steps and the service charter for these steps are shown on the RAWS website.

However, it should be noted that the time to complete the process depends on the time taken at each step. Applications are processed by VSS in order of receipt. The time taken to process information provided by an applicant depends on the quality of the information provided. The time taken to start on a particular application depends on the time taken to process others ahead of it in the same queue. Additionally, the time taken for applicants to respond to discussion items raised will also affect their application. From the above it will be seen that it is not possible to provide an accurate estimate of the total time to process and application. However, experience to date indicates that it takes around 6 months.

Q12. Why is it that there is an apparently excessive time taken from the time the VIC is cleared to having a workshop inspection?

Once all the information supplied is complete and correct, the time taken to have a workshop inspection is dependant on the availability of VSS, State or Territory inspectors and the volume of inspection and other work of the inspectors concerned. The number and frequency of receipt of workshop applications is beyond the control of VSS and the resources available for processing applications cannot be varied sufficiently to meet this varying demand.

Q13. Can VSS publish on its website the requirements for a RAW to make a vehicle meet RAWS requirements, given that some models have already been approved for more than one RAW? This would save considerable expense to RAW applicants and avoid using expensive consultants who do, on many occasions, do not get it right, even after a couple of attempts.

The Evidence Determination provides the evidence requirements and acceptable types of evidence for different categories of used imported vehicles. However, the responsibility of gathering and presenting the detailed evidence required to meet these requirements for a particular vehicle make and model is a commercial decision for each RAW (or RAW applicant). The selection of a consultant to provide evidence for a RAW is also a commercial and contractual decision for the RAW. VSS cannot provide evidence supplied by RAW applicants for use by others without the consent of the suppliers and in any case, VSS cannot take responsibility for the accuracy of evidence supplied by others.

Q14. Is there a maximum number of attempts to become a RAW allowed for in the application fee paid?

No. The workshop application fee covers its processing and related activities up to and including the issue of a RAW approval except that there are separate fees for importing the sample vehicle and for plating it once becoming a RAW. However, if on inspection a RAW is found to have major deficiencies in their evidence, vehicle or other requirements for becoming a RAW, the Administrator would seek the RAW applicants response to his/her intent to reject the workshop application. If the Administrator is not satisfied with the response, the workshop application may be rejected. The RAW applicant will be advised of the decision and be provided with information on avenues available for appealing the decision. The workshop may make a new application and pay the corresponding fee for its processing.

Q15. There is a perception that VSS responses to RAW applicant queries are not always timely, accurate and consistent.

The departmental service charter specifies that a response be provided within 20 working days. Some queries cannot be fully addressed in this time. However, in all instances a response acknowledging receipt of the query and the progress with it is required to be provided within the above time frame and followed up to keep the enquirer informed of the action being taken to provide a response until a complete response is provided.

The RAWS website is used to keep RAWS participants informed of requirements of the RAW Scheme. If there is an instance where a response to a query is found to be inaccurate or inconsistent with these requirements, it should be brought to the attention of the Administrator so that it could be examined and where necessary, appropriate rectification and preventive action taken. However it should be noted that VSS staff are not authorised to provide advice or consultancy services and that communication by phone is prone to misunderstandings. Therefore, where a decision is needed, queries should be made in writing (e-mail is acceptable).

Q16. What is the procedure to lodge complaints?

The Department values and appreciates your feedback on the quality, timeliness and responsiveness of its service. Feedback and complaints may be made through the Department’s feedback form.

Q17. What requirements apply where a vehicle is modified in order to meet the Australian Design Rules (ADR) (such as disabling a component or function)?

Where modifications are performed on the vehicle that are necessary for the vehicle to meet the Australian Design Rule requirements, the modification must be such that it cannot be reversed without the use of tools.
Instrument panel as front position lamp lighting tell-tale:

Q18. Does a vehicle with an instrument panel that changes light intensity with operation of the front position lamps meet the requirements of ADR 13/00 clause 6.9.8 for a tell-tale?

ADR 13/00 clause A6.9.8 states 'circuit-closed tell-tale mandatory. This tell-tale shall be non-flashing and shall not be required if the instrument panel lighting can only be turned on simultaneously with the front position lamps. An instrument panel that changes only the intensity does not meet this requirement, as it can be illuminated independently of the front position lamps.
Front position lamp lighting tell-tale:

Q19. For vehicles where the instrument panel does not act as the tell-tale, do the console lights meet the requirements of ADR 13/00 clause 6.9.8 for a tell tale?

Other interior lights can meet the requirements of being a tell-tale for front position lamps where it can be shown that the lights operate only with the front position lamps. In such cases this operation must be shown in the sample evidence.
ADR 37/.. Fitment of unleaded fuel filler inlet restrictors:

Q20. Is a vehicle that is required to meet ADR 37/00 or 37/01 required to be fitted with an Unleaded Fuel Filler Inlet Restrictor?

No. The intention of changes made to the RAWS Evidence Guidelines and registered on 13 September 2006 was to remove requirements for Fuel Filler Inlet Restrictors. This intention was detailed in the explanatory statements for these Guidelines.
While this is not clear in the Sample Vehicle requirements, VSS inspectors will not require Sample evidence, prepared to meet the Motor Vehicle Standards (Approval to Place Used Import Plates) Guidelines 2006 (No. 1), to show compliance with clauses 37.3.7 of ADR 37/00 or 6.7 of ADR 37/01.
ADR EVIDENCE

ADR applicability Dates for phased in ADRs

Q21. How are ADRs applied to SEVS vehicles for phased in ADRs that depend on when the model was first built?

The "new model" date is the oldest date in the SEVS eligibility date range (for the model) and the "all models" date is the newest date in the SEVS eligibility date range.

Contents of evidence test reports

Q22. What are the requirements for the content of sample (SVE) and each vehicle evidence (EVE) test reports?

Refer to the RAWS guide

Definition of campervan and motorhome

Q23. What requirements are there for campervans and motorhomes?

Refer to Administrator's Circular 0-4-12.

Owners manual

Q24. Can the Owner's manual contain information for more than just the vehicle being certified?

Yes. It can cover any variants or optional equipment within a Make/Model.

Reference axis of lamps

Q25. What evidence must accompany a photometric lamp test with regard to installation of the lamp on a vehicle?

There must be evidence showing that the reference axis of the lamp is the same in the test as when installed on a vehicle (photographs or diagrams would be sufficient).

Testing report re-issuing

Q26. there any guidance on material amendments to previously issued sample evidence test reports?

1. These must only be in the form of a supplemental document.
2. Fully re-issued reports must have a new reference number and reference the replaced report.

Using Sample Vehicle Evidence (SVE) for multiple ADR categories

Q27. Some vehicles have specifications that meet more than one vehicle category definition. In addition, the evidence requirements for vehicles of those different categories for some ADRs are the same. In such cases, can the same evidence be referenced as sample evidence in the VIC for each vehicle for that ADR?

Yes, provided the sample evidence does not include any vehicle category specific information that is not applicable to both vehicles categories and the evidence shown as ‘new’ (even if signed off by VSS) on the VIC submitted for the first vehicle of each category for which it is to be used. This enables the first use of the evidence for a different vehicle category to be identified and the evidence examined if needed to confirm its acceptability.

Using SVE for multiple Makes/Models

Q28. Some vehicle makes have little difference apart from the name of the make of the vehicle eg. some Chevrolet and GMC vehicles. For such vehicles, is the sample evidence for one make and model acceptable as sample evidence for the corresponding model of the other make?

Yes, provided that all the information in the sample evidence as shown on the vehicle inspection certificate is applicable to the vehicle make and model for which it is provided and the evidence shown as ‘new’ (even if signed off by VSS) on the VIC submitted for the first vehicle of each make and model for which it is used. This enables the first use of the evidence for a different vehicle make and model to be identified and the evidence examined if needed to confirm its acceptability.

01/00 E marked reversing lamp parts comparison

Q29. Can a reversing lamp without an E mark be shown to comply by proving that the part number is the same as a lamp with an E mark?

No. Having the same part number does not guarantee that the design is the same.

01/00 Replacing lamps

Q30. Can a post 1999 lamp be retro-fitted without testing to a pre 1999 vehicle to show compliance to ADR 1/00 and 6/00 under Japanese Origin?

No.

01/00 Reversing lamp parts comparison

Q31. Can a pre-1999 reversing lamp be shown to comply by proving that the part number is the same as a post-1999 lamp?

No. Having the same part number does not guarantee that the design is the same.

02/00 Door hinge/latch part numbers

Q32. Must door hinges/latches must have part numbers recorded in the sample vehicle evidence (SVE)?

No. Part numbers are ideal if they marked on the vehicle, otherwise photographs are sufficient

03/02 Seat and child restraint anchorage test when seats have separate components

Q33. ADR 3/02 Clause 5.5.1.2 specifies application the child restraint anchorage loads simultaneously with twenty times the weight of the entire ‘Seat’ in a ‘Forward’ longitudinal direction. Where the seat back and seat cushion are separate components is it acceptable for the seat cushion load to be omitted in this test?

Where the seat anchorages of the seat cushion and seat back are independent, the test may exclude the 20 times the seat cushion weight loading and apply the 20 times the seat back weight load simultaneously with the child restraint anchorage loads. Seat anchorages which are more than 200 mm apart are considered to be independent.

03/02 Seat part numbers

Q34. Must seats have part numbers recorded in the sample vehicle evidence (SVE)?

No. Part numbers are ideal if they marked on the vehicle, otherwise photographs are sufficient.

03/02 Simultaneous testing of CRAs

Q35. Does Cl 5.5.1.2 of ADR 3/02 require all CRAs 4/06/2004 and seats to be tested simultaneously?

No. Each seat and its related CRA(s) must be tested simultaneously, but it need not be simultaneously with any other seat unless sharing mountings.

04/03 Mitsubishi Delica Spacegear 7 Seater—seatbelts, seat travel and swivel mechanism

Q36. Is it acceptable to have the buckle component on the retracting strap of the lap/sash belt that is not accessible (as per Cl 7.4) for all positions of seat travel, for the second row right hand outboard seating position?

Yes, but only to the extent where the seat travel may include extra distance to facilitate a swivel arrangement.

04/03 Mitsubishi Delica Spacegear 8 Seater—multiple seatbelts and swivel mechanism

Q37. Is it acceptable to have a lap seatbelt and a lap/sash seatbelt on the second row right hand seat (facing forward)?

Yes, provided there is a durable warning label made obvious to the occupant of the seat. The label must advise the correct seatbelt to wear for each configuration the seat can be used in. The swivel mechanism need not be disabled.

04/03 Seat belt fitment

Q38. Must seat belt fitment checks in the sample vehicle evidence (SVE) be done by a test facility?

Yes.

04/03 Seat belt markings

Q39. Must the seat belt make and part number be recorded in the sample vehicle evidence (SVE)?

Yes.

04/03 Toyota Supra Seat belt fitment

Q40. Are there certification problems with the Toyota Supra rear seat belts?

Yes. They do not fit a 50 percentile child. Various solutions are available.

05/04 Anchorage part numbers

Q41. Must anchorages have part numbers recorded in the sample vehicle evidence (SVE)?

No. Part numbers are ideal if they marked on the vehicle, otherwise photographs are sufficient.

05/04 Determining the Seating Reference Plane (SRP)

Q42. What are acceptable methods for determining the Seating Reference Plane (SRP)?

For a rear seat designed for 2 seating positions, consistent with the ADR definition of SRP, in the absence of information from the original vehicle manufacturer to the contrary, the longitudinal vertical plane through the geometric centre of the seating position is acceptable as the SRP. In any case the SRP "shall be at least 200 mm from the vertical longitudinal plane through the centre of the vehicle and at least 200 mm from the inner panel (or the line of the inner panel) when measured horizontally on a transverse line through the ‘Seating Reference Point’.
For a rear seat with 3 seating positions (as determined in accordance with ADR 5/..), in the absence of information from the original vehicle manufacturer to the contrary, the longitudinal vertical plane through the geometric centre of each seating position is acceptable as its SRP

04/05 Mitsubishi Delica Spacegear 7 Seater—lap seatbelts

Q43. Is it acceptable to have a lap seatbelt and a lap/sash seatbelt on the second row right hand outboard seating position?

No, the additional lap belt must be removed (refer Cl 5.5.2) and where the seat swivels there must be a sign warning the occupant that the rearward configuration is not to be used when the vehicle is in motion.

04/05 Mitsubishi Delica swivel seats

Q44. Are there certification problems with Mitsubishi Delica swivel seats?

Yes. Some seats swivel allowing only a lap seat belt to be used in the rearward direction, a lap/sash in the transverse direction and a lap in the forward direction. The swivel mechanism must be disabled and the lap belt removed.

Update 08/09/04 this has been superseded by an ADR4/03 item issued 23/08/04.

08/01 Japanese origin for windscreens

Q45. Can an aftermarket windscreen be accepted as Japanese origin if it is marked with the JIS symbol?

No. The part must have been fitted to the vehicle, or be identical to the part fitted to the vehicle, when it was first supplied to the Japanese market.

08/01 Transmissivity test

Q46. What is the requirement for transmissivity test reports in sample vehicle evidence (SVE)?

The test unit must have a 2856 K calibrated source and measurements must be made according to the unit manufacturer's instructions (a copy must be held).

10/01 Mitsubishi Delica vehicle category

Q47. Does the Mitsubishi Delica have to meet ADR 10/01?

No, as it is not a forward control design.

13/00 E marked bulbs in E marked lamps

Q48. Must E marked lamps be fitted with E marked bulbs?

No. The bulbs need only meet the evidence requirements for ADR51/00.

13/00 E marks on lamps

Q49. Is the RAW expected to verify authenticity of E marks on a vehicle?

No only that they match the evidence held.

13/00 Lamp positions

Q50. Must the actual lamp positions (distances) on the vehicle be recorded in the sample vehicle evidence (SVE)?

Yes. The evidence must clearly indicate that lamps meet the sample evidence. This can be done by measurements, in which case actual dimensions must be recorded, or by photos that adequately show location.

13/00 Mitsubishi Delica cornering lamps

Q51. Are there any certification problems with Mitsubishi Delica cornering lamps?

The Mitsubishi Delica Spacegear 4WD may have cornering lamps that operate with the position lamps. This does not comply with ADR 13/00 Cl 7.4.7.2, as they must operate only with the headlamps. Disconnecting them is an acceptable solution.

13/00 Number of stop/position lamps for the Nissan Skyline

Q52. What is the correct number of rear stop/position lamps to be reported in the ADR 13/00 evidence and the VIC for the Nissan Skyline?

Most variants of the Nissan Skyline have rear stop/position lamps that appear to consist of 4 round lamps. However, these are grouped lamps and so may be reported as 2 for ADR 13/00 evidence and the VIC purposes.

Any Centre High Mounted Stop Lamp (CHMSL) would be added to make 3 in total.

18/02 Electronic km/h to mph speedometers

Q53. Must the switch be disabled where an electronic speedometer is capable of being switched to miles per hour?

Yes.
18/02 Instrument dimmer switch

Q54. Is there still a requirement for an instrument dimmer switch, given that Clause Cl 18.4.3 of ADR18/02 has now been deleted?

No.

18/02 Odometer accuracy—methods and length of trip needed to prove

Q55. What are some acceptable methods of determining the odometer and speedometer accuracy?

To ensure a 4% accuracy can be established, check by driving a known distance and compare this against the odometer on the vehicle. Note: if the odometer reads down to 1 km, the trip must be at least 25 km long. If it reads down to 0.1 km, the trip must be at least 2.5 km long. Add any error in the known distance to this.

Alternatively, if driving until the odometer clicks over to a reading, then comparing to a GPS or 5th wheel device, the error is only that of the GPS or 5th wheel device.

All checks must be done on the odometer and not the trip meter, unless a direct relationship between the two can be established.

21/00 Instrument panel definition

Q56. Is there a definition of what is considered as part of the instrument panel for the purposes of compliance to ADR 21/00?

Any part that is in the head impact area.

22/00 Head restraint height of Nissan Stagea and Skyline R33 2 door

Q57. Are there any certification problems with the head restraint height of the Nissan Stagea and Nissan Skyline R33 2 door?

The restraints on the front seats may be too low. Fitting spacers to lift the restraint 72 mm minimum for the Stagea and 15 mm for the Skyline is an acceptable solution. The spacers must be retained when the restraint is removed and so not be likely to be removed by the user.

Note: There are different seat variants and only some have the problem. The variants that are acceptable usually have a seat base (at highest setting) to top of restraint (at lowest setting) measurement of about 710 mm.

22/00 H-point template error

Q58. Is the template from Vehicle Standards Bulletin No. 5A template acceptable for locating the H-point, for the purpose of determining the height of a head restraint?

Yes, however there may be some error associated in its use. Where there is a marginal reading (close to the lower limit), an H-point machine should be used instead.

24/02 "Maximum Vehicle Speed 24/00"

Q59. What are the acceptable ways to determine the "Maximum Vehicle Speed 24/00"?

By the methods in the ADR as it is a defined term ie a 1.6 km test. hoist test or by calculation. It must not be taken off the speedometer scale or tyre speed information.

28/01 Acceptable sound meters

Q60. Is a sound meter that meets IEC 651 acceptable for ADR 28/01 testing?

Yes.

28/01 Noise system drive-by test

Q61. Does an automatic transmission drive-by test cover a manual transmission variant of the same vehicle?

Yes, if worst case justification can be demonstrated.

28/01 Noise system identification

Q62. Must the intake/exhaust system have part numbers recorded in the sample vehicle evidence (SVE)?

No. Part numbers are ideal if they marked on the vehicle, otherwise photographs are sufficient.

29/00 US vehicles sold in Japan

Q63. Should US designed vehicles (eg Chevrolet Corvette) sold in to Japan be certified with the evidence type "Japanese origin" or "US origin".

"Japanese origin" (where relevant) as this is where the vehicles were first registered, despite the design originating in the US.

30/00 Month and year of manufacture for engine label

Q64. Can the month and year of manufacture of the vehicle, instead of the engine, be shown on a label when demonstrating compliance to Cl 30.2.3.0?

Yes.

30/00 Using commercial fuel for smoke testing

Q65. Can commercial diesel fuel be used when testing to ADR 30/00?

Yes, provided certain parameters are met. Contact VSS for further information.

31/00 Brake evidence passenger cars

Q66. Must there be sample vehicle evidence (SVE) against every ADR clause listed in the evidence determination?

Yes.

33/00 Brake evidence motorcycles

Q67. Must there be sample vehicle evidence (SVE) against every ADR clause listed in the evidence determination?

Yes.

34/01 CRA accessibility

Q68. What must the sample vehicle evidence (SVE) contain to demonstrate accessibility of Child Restraint Anchorages (CRAs) ?

Photographs and/or drawings.

34/01 CRA design and tests

Q69. What are acceptable methods of fabricating Child Restraint Anchorages (CRAs)?

Load bearing welds are generally not acceptable unless good control over the welding process can be shown. The preferred option is to use nuts and bolts. Load tests must be done simultaneously on all anchorages.

34/01 Simultaneous testing of Child Restraint Anchorages (CRAs)

Q70. Where there is difficulty testing CRAs simultaneously (such as when they are located on multiple seating rows), is it acceptable to test separately?

Possibly, provided there is engineering justification to demonstrate (a) the difficulty in testing simultaneously (b) that the separate anchorages are sufficiently independent from each other such that the test results would not be affected. Viewed on a case-by-case basis.

34/01 The use of Analysis under ADR 34/01

Q71. Can "Analysis" include comparisons to full volume vehicles?

Yes. Where components are identical this can supplement or replace strength calculations.

35/01 Brake evidence for each clause heavy vehicles

Q72. Must there be sample vehicle evidence (SVE) against every ADR clause listed in the evidence determination?

Yes.

37/01 "At time of Import" definition for changing cat converters

Q73. What is the definition of "At time of Import" as relates to changing catalytic converters?

It is the date that the ship enters the port of discharge, not the date the import approval was issued or that the vehicle was released from the Customs Service.

37/01 "More than 5 years old" definition for changing cat converters

Q74. What are some acceptable ways to determine a vehicle's age when deciding whether the catalytic converter(s) must be changed?

The dates on hoses or parts, or the date of first registration as specified on a de-registration certificate, may be used as indicators.

37/01 Emission part numbers

Q75. What types of catalytic converter and charcoal canister can be fitted to a vehicle?

Only the types identified on the sample vehicle evidence (SVE) test report for emissions.

37/01 Use of remanufactured charcoal canisters

Q76. Can a remanufactured charcoal canister be fitted in lieu of a new canister to meet ADR 37/.. Requirements?

No. Note 3 of ADR 37 Emission Controls For Light Vehicles requires a new canister (to sample vehicle specification) to be fitted.

42/03 HICAS steering

Q77. Is HICAS steering (4 wheel non-mechanical at the rear) acceptable under ADR 42/.. as it is not mechanically connected to the steering wheel?

Yes, because it is not essential for steering the vehicle.

42/03 Vehicle jacks

Q78. Should information about the vehicle jack be included in the ADR 42/.. evidence?

No, as vehicle jacks are not covered by the ADRs (note that under the Trades Practices Act, vehicle jacks are still required to meet the relevant Australian Standard).

42/04 VSB4 applicability to ADR 42/04

Q79. As ADR 42/04 does not require specific testing for demisting of windscreens and windscreen wiper and washing systems, are the requirements in VSB 4 still applicable?

Yes.

61/02 Front registration plate opening on a Nissan Stagea

Q80. Are there any certification problems with the front registration plate opening on a Nissan Stagea?

The width is approximately 340 mm, for which the determination does not give a concession to 372 mm. Using spacers to clear the recess and allow a full plate to be fitted is an acceptable solution.

61/02 Rear registration plate opening

Q81. Must a warning be placed in the owner's manual where rear number plate openings are only 320-372 mm wide?

It is not a RAW requirement, although some State and Territory registration authorities may require it under their procedures.

Additional checks in the Completed Vehicle Report CVR

Q82. Can a CVR include checks to be done on items not applicable to the sample vehicle?

Yes. However, the sample evidence against which the checks are done must be clearly identified, as in its absence, there is no assurance that the vehicle has been checked against the applicable sample evidence.

Each Vehicle Evidence (EVE) traceability

Q83. What requirements are there for multiple page Completed Vehicle Reports (CVR) where these are used to hold the Each Vehicle Evidence (EVE)?

Where there are multiple pages, each page must contain a reference that identifies it as part of a record set (eg VIN number) and an indication of the end of the record set (eg page # of #)

Information in the Completed Vehicle Report (CVR)

Q84. What information needs to be completed in the CVR when a VIC is lodged?

The CVR must be complete except for the information that can not be included due the used import plate not being fitted. The CVR must be signed and dated by the VIC signatory noting that the above information is to be completed and signed off and dated when the used imported plate is fitted.

Scope of evidence requirements in the CVR

Q85. Is the evidence required in the CVR limited to that specified in Part 7 of the Approval to Place Used Import Plates Determination?

No. Evidence required for each vehicle include information required in other parts of the Determination (eg. evidence of country of origin (where applicable), vehicle components being undamaged and to the sample evidence specification).

Signing of the CVR

Q86. Must the CVR be signed on each page by the VIC signatory?

No. However, the CVR must be signed and dated by the VIC signatory with a statement to confirm that the information provided in it shows compliance with the applicable requirements.

Guidance on completing—odometer reading and part numbers

Q87. Is there any guidance on completing a CIN?

1. Where the vehicle is to be inspected by DOTARS prior to the model being added to the schedule, the odometer reading may be filled in to the CIN after the inspection.

2. Where modification related components do not have part numbers marked on them, the part number box in the CIN table should be left blank.

3. Where modification related components have part numbers marked on them but are not accessible unless dismantled (eg brake backing plates) they still must be recorded on the table.

4. Where modification related components have identification markings but not part numbers, these should be shown on the CIN table.

Letterhead/logo in Consumer Information Notice (CIN)

Q88. Can the Consumer Information Notice contain the letterhead and/or logo of the RAW in additional to that required by Regulation 57(h), 58 and Schedule 1 of the MVS Regulations?

No.

Requirements to attach the CIN

Q89. Until when does the CIN need to be attached to the vehicle in accordance with Regulation 58(4)?

In accordance with the Section 3(b), Objects of the Act and the definition of supply to the market, the CIN must be attached to the vehicle until it is delivered to a person for use in transport in Australia.

Requirements to complete the CIN

Q90. What information needs to be completed in the CIN of a vehicle when a VIC is lodged for it?

The CIN must be complete except for the date the used import plate is fitted. The CIN may be signed and dated by the VIC signatory noting that the above information is to be completed and signed off and dated when the used imported plate is fitted.

Spare parts information in CIN

Q91. Can the Consumer Information Notice contain information on where spare parts may be obtained?

No.

Discussion items—major

Q92. What are major discussion items?

Major discussion items show significant non-compliance with requirements or deficiencies that may lead to such non-compliances.

Discussion items—structure

Q93. How should responses to DIs raised be structured?

A response to a DI should indicate the rectification action taken, the reason for the deviation from requirements where applicable) and action to prevent recurrence. Where applicable, evidence of the action taken should be provided.

GST applicability

Q94. Are RAW fees subject to the GST?

No. They are exempt.

Similar models—fees

Q95. Some vehicles of different make and model have little difference apart from their make and model names eg. some Chevrolet and GMC vehicles. For such vehicles, is a separate fee payable to have the second make and model included in the RAW's schedule of approved vehicles?

Yes. However, where the SEVS ruling for a vehicle model shows another vehicle model as an alternative, then a separate fee will not be charged to include the second model in the schedule of approved vehicles of a RAW when the first model is entered in it.

Criminal History Check

Q96. For whom are police checks required?

Police checks form a part of the fit and proper requirements of Section 21B(1)(b) of the Act, Regulation 42(k) and Regulation 39(2). They are required for the directors, each officer or shareholder who is in a position to influence the management of the RAW applicant, executive officer and vehicle inspection signatory.

Importing a vehicle not on the schedule

Q98. Once a RAW applicant gains approval as a RAW, can an import and plate application be made for a vehicle not on its schedule of approved vehicles?

Yes, provided the vehicle is on the SEVS register, the "import a sample vehicle" option is selected on the application and unless otherwise approved, the vehicle is the first vehicle of that make and model for which the application is made by the RAW. The vehicle(s) and the applicable evidence may be subject to inspection prior to the vehicle make model being added to the RAW's schedule of approved vehicles and a used import plate being issued.

Importing multiple vehicles

Q99. Can a RAW applicant who has imported their first vehicle import a second vehicle of the same make and model while awaiting a inspection of the first vehicle?

No. A RAW applicant can import only one vehicle.

Importing vehicles with aftermarket components

Q100. Can a vehicle fitted with an after market exhaust system be imported under RAWS?

Yes. However, the exhaust system fitted to the vehicle when a used import plate is fitted to it must be in accordance with the applicable sample evidence shown on the vehicle inspection certificate submitted for the vehicle.

Transfer of vehicles

Q101. If a RAW or RAW applicant is unable to certify a vehicle imported by them, can another RAW or RAW applicant use it as their first or subsequent vehicle?

Depending on the circumstances and the evidence provided in support, the Administrator may grant a request for use of a vehicle imported by one RAW or RAW applicant be plated by another RAW or RAW applicant.

Damaged or stolen and stripped vehicles

Q102. Can previously damaged vehicles or previously stolen and stripped vehicles be fitted with a used import plate?

A vehicle that has been damaged in the past such that its structural integrity had been reduced can not be fitted with a used import plate, even if it has been repaired. However, a vehicle that has been stolen and stripped can be, provided the replaced parts are identical to those of the original specification.

Damaged vehicles on initial inspection

Q103. If a vehicle is damaged during shipping, within the workshop of the RAW or sub-contractor and the extent of the damage is beyond the limits specified in the Procedures for Inspecting and Testing Used Imported Vehicles Determination, can it be repaired and certified under the RAW scheme?

No. It must be exported or destroyed.

SEVS vehicle categories

Q104. Some vehicles have specifications that meet more than one vehicle category definition. Can a SEVS eligibility ruling be issued for the vehicle model in each category?

The Administrator may determine that a vehicle is in a particular vehicle category (Regulation 25). Where the vehicle characteristics meet the definition of more than one vehicle category, then a SEVS eligibility ruling may be issued in each applicable vehicle category. Vehicles relating to different SEVS eligibility rulings will have separate entries on the RAW's schedule of approved make models.

Similar models

Q105. Some vehicles of different make and model have little difference apart from their make and model names eg. some Chevrolet and GMC vehicles. For such vehicles, is a SEVS ruling for one make and model applicable to the corresponding model of the other make?

Not necessarily. The similarity of the vehicles will be recognised in schedule 3 of the SEVS ruling under the heading ‘Alternative models’. However, a separate SEVS eligibility ruling will be available for each make and model. Vehicles relating to different SEVS eligibility rulings will have separate entries on the RAW's schedule of approved make models.

"New evidence"—meaning

Q105. When is a sample evidence document to be shown as ‘New’ evidence?

Where a VSS inspector has not signed off a sample evidence document, it should be shown as ‘New’ evidence on the VIC. Where the same sample evidence is applicable to vehicles of different makes and models or vehicle category then this sample evidence needs to be signed off for each different vehicle make model and category for which it is used and if applicable to the RAW it must be recognised in the RAW's ISO certified quality system.

"Specific Evidence" column on the VIC—meaning

Q106. What documents need to be referenced in the column headed Specific Evidence Document Reference?

For a particular ADR, the document containing the information required in Part 7 of the evidence determination under specific evidence for each vehicle should be shown in this column. If the CVR contains this information, the CVR reference may be used.

ADR version not shown in requirements

Q107. What evidence requirements apply for versions of the ADR not shown in the Approval to Place Used Import Plates Determination?

As indicated in Part 7 of the Determination, the Administrator will advise evidence requirements for such ADRs on request.

Amending evidence to include new variant information

Q108. Can a sample evidence document containing information signed off previously for one variant (eg. an engine) be amended to include information relating to a second variant and referenced in the VIC for a vehicle with the second variant?

No. If a document is amended, it must be identified differently from the unamended document and this difference visible in the document reference shown in the VIC. Combining signed off evidence with unseen evidence in one document would make it a ‘new’ document and need to be shown as such on the VIC. To sign off the new document would require VSS inspectors to check not only the information relating to the second variant but also verify that the other information in the document is identical to that previously signed off. Additionally, the CVR would need to identify the part of the sample evidence document applicable to the specific vehicle being inspected. The use of separate evidence for the different variants would overcome these difficulties and provide greater assurance of compliance with the requirements.

Electronic VIC sign off

Q109. Is there a need to have a physical sign off by the VIC signatory of the information provided in a VIC as the VIC signatories use their Personal Identification Numbers to lodge VICs electronically?

No. The electronic receipt of a VIC from a RAW applicant with the name of the VIC signatory shown on it is taken as being signed off by that VIC signatory. However, the RAW applicant must have procedures and records to show that the VIC is not lodged until the necessary information is held, the vehicle modified in accordance with the workshop's procedures and the applicable documents completed.

Multiple evidence entries for one ADR

Q110. Can more than one document be referenced as sample evidence on a VIC for an ADR?

Yes. The documents taken together must show compliance for the ADR concerned for the whole vehicle.

Multiple variant information with one VIC

Q111. Can a sample evidence document referenced in a VIC contain information relating to more than one variant (eg. an engine variant)?

No, it should contain only the information for the variant applicable to the vehicle to which the VIC applies. Otherwise VSS inspectors may not be able to sign off only the parts of documents applicable to the vehicle inspected. This would result in such documents having to be identified as ‘new’ on subsequent VICs as the entire document would not be signed off.

The exceptions are ADRs 18/.., 20/.., 23/.. and 24/..

ADRs 24/.. requires the the tyre placard to list the nominated rim profiles and recommended tyres sizes for each rim profile, even if they are not fitted to the vehicle concerned. It has been accepted that the tyre placard may have tyre and rim combinations applicable to other variants of the same vehicle model provided their applicability to each variant is clearly shown on the tyre placard. The tyre placard evidence must be shown as ‘new’ (even if signed off by VSS) on the VIC submitted for the first vehicle of each variant for which it is used. This enables the first use of the evidence for a different variant to be identified and the evidence examined if needed to confirm its acceptability and the availability of the corresponding ADR 23/.. evidence to be confirmed.

In regard to ADRs 18/.., 20/..and 23/.., the sample evidence must cover all the tyres and rims shown on the tyre placard as applicable to the vehicle for which the VIC is lodged. This evidence (or any part of it) must be shown as ‘new’ (even if signed off by VSS) on the VIC submitted for the first vehicle of each variant for which it is used.

Protocol for listing evidence on the VIC

Q112. What sample vehicle evidence (SVE) should be noted as "New Evidence" when listing it on the VIC?

"New Evidence" is evidence which has not been signed-off by VSS against the particular make/model being applied for. This means it is "New Evidence" if not signed-off, or signed-off previously against a different make/model.

ADR knowledge test—conditions

Q113. Can the relevant documents (eg. the ADRs and Administrator's Circulars) be referred during the VIC signatory ADR knowledge test?

Yes.

ADR knowledge test and competency test—failure

Q114. If a person wishing to be a VIC signatory fails the Competency test or the ADR knowledge test, how soon can VSS conduct re-test(s)?

A test may be re-taken at a date after the failed test provided it is supervised by a VSS inspector.

Competency test—conditions

Q115. Can the relevant documents (eg. the MVS Act, Regulations, Determinations, RAWS Guide) be referred to during the VIC signatory Competency test?

No.

VIC signatory requirements

Q116. Can a person who has passed the Competency test and ADR knowledge test still not be accepted as a VIC signatory?

Yes. If there is evidence that the VIC signatory is not performing his/her obligations under the MVSA, (eg. significant non-compliances with requirements in the sample evidence, each vehicle evidence or a vehicle which has been signed off as meeting the requirements).

Each Vehicle Evidence (EVE) test equipment

Q117. Does a RAW need to own the equipment required to carry out the each vehicle tests required in the Approval to Place Used Import Plates Determination?

No. However, if the equipment is not owned and available at the RAW's premises, then the details of the equipment, its calibration records and procedures used to make the measurements must be available at the RAW's premises.

Servicing and tuning

Q118. What information is needed to be retained by the RAW to show that each vehicle has been serviced and tuned to the original manufacturer's specifications?

The RAW must hold the original manufacturer's instructions for servicing and tuning the vehicle and the corresponding records of work done to show that these instructions have been followed. Where a test is specified (eg. an idle emissions test), the RAW must hold a test report showing compliance with the test requirements for each vehicle. The test report must contain the information specified for each vehicle test reports in RAW News issue 3.

Sub-contracting campervan and motorhome work

Q119. Can interior fit-out of a campervan or motorhome be sub-contracted, particularly where licensed work (gas/electrical) is a legal requirement?

No. Regulation 57 limits what can be sub-contracted. Building interior equipment can be sub-contracted but must be installed or assembled in to the vehicle by the RAW. The current legislation also applies this to licensed work.

Sub-contracting EVE tests

Q120. Can the each vehicle tests required in the Approval to Place Used Import Plates Determination be sub-contracted?

No. The RAW is required to conduct the each vehicle tests specifically mentioned in the Approval to Place Used Import Plates Determination (eg stationary noise test and evaporative emissions pressure test). Any other test not specifically mentioned in the determination but which may be required on each vehicle (eg. an idle emissions test in servicing and tuning it to the original manufacturer's specification) may be sub-contracted.

Sub-contracting roadworthiness repairs

Q121. Can vehicle repairs be sub-contracted where they are required to meet roadworthy requirements (eg. replacement of a leaking engine oil seal)?

Yes. Persons other than directors or employees of the RAW may perform servicing and repair procedures.

Q122. Which small Japanese vehicles have been tested to an expectable standard to show compliance to ADR 69/00 through the concessional Registered Automotive Workshop Scheme: Motor Vehicle Standards (Approval to Place Used Import Plates) Guidelines 2006 (No.1).

Small Used Japanese Vehicles (Kei Cars), supplied to the Japanese market, with the vehicle having been proven to be registered after 01 April 2001, are considered to comply with the requirements of item 1. ADR 69/00 of the Motor Vehicle Standards (Approval to Place Used Import Plates) Guidelines 2006 (No.1) using “Japanese Origin” as the basis for compliance.

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