Written-off vehicle reform aimed at protecting WA motorists

• The written-off vehicle registrations process is being reviewed
• Industry feedback sought to inform the proposed changes
• The Department of Transport is updating systems for the business community to improve the Written-off Vehicle Register notification process 

The McGowan Government is seeking to update laws governing the State's Written-off Vehicle Register to be more transparent and safer for Western Australian motorists.

The WOVR framework has remained fundamentally unchanged since 2004 - other than a minor alteration to the damage assessment criteria in 2012 - and it has become outdated.

The Department of Transport has identified a number of areas of improvement within the current WOVR framework and will work with industry to strengthen contracts, legislation, policies, systems and business processes as part of its commitment to safe vehicles.

One of the first improvements is a consumer protection initiative, which will soon see the WOVR status of a vehicle visible on vehicle licence renewals.

The department is inviting both industry and the community to be involved in the stakeholder consultation which will kickstart the reform process.

Both the community and industry will see benefits ranging from increased community awareness, interrupting the stolen vehicle re-birthing trade and improving the safety of vehicles being driven on WA roads.

If you would like to take part in the consultation process, visit http://www.transport.wa.gov.au/licensing/stakeholder-surveys

Comments attributed to Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:

"The development of the WOVR Reform proposal shows willingness from both government and industry to work together for the benefit of all concerned.

"The reform of the WOVR framework will see an increased level of vehicle compliance, allowing prospective buyers to be educated on the purchase of a repairable written-off vehicle.

"The changes will mean prospective buyers are better informed about the history of vehicles which have previously been assessed as a write-off.

"I encourage the community and industry groups to be involved in the consultation process which will inform the change proposal."

Minister's office - 6552 5500