Australian Govt response to automated vehicles and social issues report

In September last year the Standing Committee on Industry, Innovation, Science and Resources tabled its report on the social aspects of the introduction of driverless cars in Australia. Last week, the Australian Government’s response was tabled in Parliament.

The report, entitled Social issues relating to land-based automated vehicles in Australia, outlines the opportunities and risks presented by new transport technologies, and the social issues that might accompany the introduction and implementation of automated vehicles to Australian roads.

It’s an area in which the Australian Government is keen to be well-prepared:

The Australian Government is committed to a national leadership role on future transport technologies, including on social issues relating to automated transport. This includes meaningful engagement and dialogue with the community, industry and all levels of government about the opportunities and challenges of emerging automotive technologies and innovative, technology-enabled business models.

The Government’s response refers to “working with all jurisdictions to ensure that coordinated action is taken on issues such as”:

• make sure that automated vehicles can operate safely and legally on our roads, including for trials and testing
• investigate future infrastructure requirements
• protect automated vehicles from misuse
• secure automated vehicles from hacking
• implications for driver licensing and road rules
• consumer issues like insurance and liability
• impacts on our workforce and future skills needs

Of the ten recommendations in the report, the Government supported eight outright, with two supported in-principle.

As we said back in September, iMOVE is pleased with the Government’s action on this. We’re already working with our participants and industry stakeholders on iMOVE projects in various areas of smart mobility.

Download the report

Click the button below to download a copy of the Australian Government’s response to the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Industry, Innovation, Science and Resources’ report on Social issues relating to land-based automated vehicles in Australia.