Legislation passes for NSW autonomous vehicle trials

The NSW government has passed legislation to allow the trial of automated vehicles, following driverless innovation in Adelaide and Melbourne.

Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight Melinda Pavey has said the legislation would establish a legislative framework to allow the safe testing of connected and highly automated vehicle technology in NSW.

“These new laws will enable industry, researchers and government to trial automated vehicle technologies on our roads, not only in the city but in regional areas as well,” said Pavey.

“The Government is positioning NSW as a leader in innovation, because we’re able to test and trial emerging technologies in our road environment while maintaining public safety.”

The legislation will reportedly allow the Minister to approve trials – including type of vehicles, roads used and trial time period – and require trial applicants to have the appropriate insurance provisions and safety management plans in place.