Source: A Safe, Fair and Efficient Crash Towing Industry on the Way for WA

In a landmark development for Western Australia’s crash towing industry, the Towing Services Bill 2024 has officially passed through State Parliament, ushering in sweeping changes that will impact both consumers and businesses across the state. With immediate effect, these new regulations are designed to create a safer, fairer, and more efficient towing environment for everyone; protecting people involved in traffic accidents and combatting bad behaviour and price gouging.

Key Changes Under the Towing Services Bill 2024

1. Immediate Ban on Spotter Fees
   One of the most significant changes under the new law is the immediate ban on spotter fees. Spotter fees refer to payments made to individuals or members of the public who report accidents to towing operators, often resulting in the towing of vehicles without the proper consent or transparency. This practice has long been a source of concern due to its potential for exploitation.
   Under the new legislation, not only are towing companies prohibited from advertising or paying spotter fees, but anyone caught accepting or offering spotter fees could face penalties of up to $45,000. This is a major step forward in protecting consumers from unscrupulous towing practices and ensuring that all towing services operate in a transparent, ethical manner.
2. Price Caps on Towing and Storage
   To ensure the crash towing process is both fair and affordable, the Towing Services Bill introduces maximum charges for towing and storage of light vehicles in the Perth and Peel regions. These capped fees will prevent excessive costs that could burden consumers during an already stressful time.
   For the rest of the state, the bill mandates that towing and storage charges must be reasonable, providing greater transparency and helping ensure fair pricing across all regions.
3. Tougher Penalties for Non-Compliance
   The new legislation also includes increased penalties for towing operators who breach the requirements outlined in the Authority to Tow form. In addition, workers or service providers found engaging in unacceptable or unfair behavior will face stricter penalties. This ensures that the industry maintains high standards of professionalism and accountability, protecting both consumers and the reputation of the towing industry in Western Australia.
4. Information Sessions and Ongoing Education
   The Department of Transport will soon begin hosting information sessions to educate towing industry professionals about the new regulations. These sessions will help operators understand the full scope of the reforms and ensure that they comply with the new rules.Industry stakeholders are encouraged to register for updates on these reforms and participate in the information sessions. For more details, visit the Department of Transport website or register your interest using the provided forms.

Why This Matters for Consumers 

The Towing Services Bill 2024 marks a significant step toward rebuilding the reputation of Western Australia’s crash towing industry. As Minister Assisting the Transport Minister, David Michael, explained, the government’s aim is to make the towing industry safe, fair, efficient, and affordable for all Western Australians. With immediate changes like the ban on spotter fees and price caps for towing services, consumers can expect a more transparent, accountable, and cost-effective experience when they need towing services the most.

What You Need to Do Now

As a consumer, you can rest assured that these changes are designed to protect your rights and reduce the potential for exploitation. Here’s how you can stay informed and take advantage of the new regulations:

• Know your rights: Spotter fees are no longer allowed, so if you’re offered or solicited for such payments, you should report it to authorities.
• Expect fair pricing: In Perth and Peel, there will now be capped charges for towing and storage. If you’re charged beyond these limits, you have grounds for complaint.
• Stay informed: Keep an eye on updates from the Department of Transport, and consider attending one of their information sessions if you’re in the towing industry or just want to learn more.

The passage of the Towing Services Bill 2024 is a major win for consumers, businesses, and the towing industry as a whole. By helping to ensure fair pricing, eliminate unethical practices like spotter fees, and enforce professional standards, the new regulations are a step toward a safer, more reliable towing experience for all Western Australians.

For more information on the reforms, visit the Department of Transport website, and stay tuned for more updates as these changes take effect across the state.

For more information and access to forms referenced in this blog, visit Source