State ticks driverless car trials

Driverless vehicles can now be trialled across Victoria after the State Government passed legislation in Parliament.

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

Roads and Road Safety Minister Luke Donnellan said the legislation would encourage national and international industry leaders to develop exciting, emerging technology in Victoria – meaning more jobs and opportunities for Victorians.

“Victoria is at the forefront of autonomous vehicle technology and these changes will allow our best and brightest to continue to drive transport innovation,” he said.

“Automated vehicles are the future of road safety – that’s why we’re investing in trials and giving researchers better access to Victorian roads.”

Mr 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.

Mr Donnellan said automated vehicles would 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 might be removed to allow the vehicle to drive in automated mode in limited circumstances without a supervisor.