March 13, 2023
The Department of Transport and Main Roads has released new modification codes which will allow some vehicle owners to legally increase the payload of their vehicles.
TMR has released a new Gross Combination Mass (GCM) code and amended the existing Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) code.
A spokesperson said the primary reason was to allow owners of light vehicles in Queensland to safely carry out modifications to their vehicles which would enable them to increase the vehicle’s payload and offer more options when looking to tow a heavier caravan.
The new code addresses modification requirements relating to GCM re-rating, which is the sum of the maximum weight a vehicle can both carry and tow.
The development of the new GCM code has also resulted updates to the existing requirements for re-rating the GVM, ie. the weight of the vehicle when fully loaded.
Deputy Director-General Geoff Magoffin said there had been continued calls from both industry and the wider recreational motoring community to allow for the mass re-ratings of light vehicles.
“I am pleased to announce we have listened to the needs of industry and the towing community and have developed safe and robust modification codes which we believe will be welcomed by those wishing to undertake these type of vehicle modifications,” Mr Magoffin said.
“TMR engineers have worked with their counterparts in NSW and Victoria and alongside industry to develop the new GCM code.
“While the codes will be available within Queensland initially, TMR will continue to work closely with their jurisdictional counterparts and the Commonwealth to introduce the codes nationally.
“These changes have been made to assist Queenslanders who want to explore our great State, whilst also ensuring vehicles continue to meet important safety and modification standards.”
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association CEO Stuart Charity said Queensland now has the best GCM and GVM regulations in the country.
“This means all road users will be safer and our vibrant home-grown Queensland 4WD modification industry can continue to thrive and drive innovation in the automotive industry,” Mr Charity said.
“We would like to thank TMR for listening to our feedback and for also undertaking a transparent and engaging process in which our industry could have a voice.”
