Go Back   Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB > Regional Forums > Australia / New Zealand
Australia / New Zealand Topics specific to Australia and New Zealand only.
Photo by Danielle Murdoch, riding to Uganda - Kenya border

The only impossible journey
is the one
you never begin

Photo by Danielle Murdoch,
riding to Uganda - Kenya border



Like Tree12Likes
  • 4 Post By RogerM
  • 3 Post By anonymous1
  • 1 Post By Scootergal
  • 3 Post By PanEuropean
  • 1 Post By RogerM

Reply
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 27 May 2014
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Bribie Island Australia
Posts: 678
Review of Australian vehicle import requirements

Reducing Motor Vehicle Red Tape


Time to get stuck into the Feds about either reverting to the 30 year old rule to import a vehicle as of a right or to scrap it completely (currently its built prior to 1989). Get rid of the rule that requires a right hand drive vehicle if its under thirty years old - EU safety experience shows "wrong handed" vehicles are involved in less accidents. Get rid of the damned carnets - we are not a third world economy.


Now that we don't have a vehicle building industry its time that we entered at least the latter part of the 20th Century.
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 29 May 2014
Registered Users
HUBB regular
 
Join Date: Dec 2013
Location: mostly Salford now
Posts: 95
Quote:
Originally Posted by RogerM View Post
Reducing Motor Vehicle Red Tape


Time to get stuck into the Feds about either reverting to the 30 year old rule to import a vehicle as of a right or to scrap it completely (currently its built prior to 1989). Get rid of the rule that requires a right hand drive vehicle if its under thirty years old - EU safety experience shows "wrong handed" vehicles are involved in less accidents. Get rid of the damned carnets - we are not a third world economy.


Now that we don't have a vehicle building industry its time that we entered at least the latter part of the 20th Century.
I sincerely wish you the very best of luck when dealing with the bureaucrats / bean counters / politicians.

Sadly it is through about 20 years of fighting the good fight I beginning to accept that I will not live to see some of these common sense changes.

But my daughter will! and I have started her training young!

Yes there are some risks associated with older cars but, there are advantages too. not only that the amount of affort you put into these classics means that they tend to be driven by people who "love" them!
Reply With Quote
  #3  
Old 29 May 2014
Scootergal's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: May 2012
Location: On the road around Oz
Posts: 154
Quote:
Originally Posted by RogerM View Post
its time that we entered at least the latter part of the 20th Century.
Oh such faith that common sense will prevail - how sweet.

I recently tried to renew my licence - out of state.
It should have been a simple matter of popping down to the RTA in Alice and forking over some dosh...... Noooooo, the red tape brigade got hold of the procedure and 10 forms with verified photo and JP signed witness all sent by SNAIL MAIL to a processing centre which took more than 4 weeks to rubber stamp and then they sent it to the wrong address.
I had to keep reminding myself that we are one country...

Good luck with your battle.
__________________
Postie Notes - "you're not seriously going around Australia on a postie bike??"
Reply With Quote
  #4  
Old 29 May 2014
Registered User
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Apr 2012
Posts: 377
The Bastard Factor!

Quote:
Originally Posted by RogerM View Post
Reducing Motor Vehicle Red Tape. Time to get stuck into the Feds about either reverting to the 30 year old rule to import a vehicle as of a right or to scrap it completely. Get rid of the damned carnets - we are not a third world economy. Now that we don't have a vehicle building industry its time that we entered at least the latter part of the 20th Century.
A little known FACT !

The vehicle dealers (importers & otherwise) in this country, the scheming bastards have lobbied the Australian government (DOTARS) the spineless bastards, to a point and in collusion with the manufactures the complete bastards!

Where by they change the absolute minimum on given foreign vehicle, in my case a reflector, a sticker and a small plastic guard. Therefore said vehicle will not meet ADR's (Australian design regulations). No wonder Ozi vehicles are some of the most expensive on the planet! Those who have tried to import their post 1989 pride and joy will know the costs of doing so is so expensive therefore prohibitive.

I put the bastard theory to test word for word (after 6 weeks of intensive calls and emails getting the absolute facts) to DOTARS when trying to import a bike. The DOTARS DORK's reply was Errrr Ohhh we have to keep the vehicles safe on our roads!

"You cant be serious, for 1, how many states in this country are there where you don't have to take your car over the pits every year? QLD, WA & SA for starters, you got Fred Nerk driving round in his FB ute which probably hasn't been over the pits since day 1. No wonder Australian car manufactures are going down the toilet, protected species, unchallenged, uneconomical, crap cars, cost's to the tax paying public propping up these manufactures of shit is gargantuan!

Didn't go over well at all, in fact he said "you can't say that" I asked if he'd like to hear it again but no, THE TRUTH HURTS !

There you have it in a nutshell.

The cartel is alive and thriving!

Last edited by Drwnite; 30 May 2014 at 22:38.
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 30 May 2014
Scootergal's Avatar
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: May 2012
Location: On the road around Oz
Posts: 154
Excellent rant Dave
__________________
Postie Notes - "you're not seriously going around Australia on a postie bike??"
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 30 May 2014
Registered User
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Apr 2012
Posts: 377
Quote:
Originally Posted by Scootergal View Post
Excellent rant Dave
I wish it was just a rant, sadly it is the way it is!

A inquiry into such behaviour against the Australian public would be very interesting to watch unfold

Last edited by Drwnite; 30 May 2014 at 08:42.
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 30 May 2014
Gold Member
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jan 2002
Location: Toronto, Canada
Posts: 2,119
Unfortunately, I think the opportunity has passed to regain 'common sense' in governance in Australia.

I visited the country several times on business during the past two years, and it appears to me that it has turned into a Nanny State. The politicians wake up in the morning, think "There ought to be a law..." about something, and before they leave the office that night, they have made a law.

There are far too many rules, regulations, and restrictions in place. How you folks are ever going to get some freedom back I do not know.
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 30 May 2014
Registered User
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Apr 2012
Posts: 377
Quote:
Originally Posted by PanEuropean View Post
Unfortunately, I think the opportunity has passed to regain 'common sense' in governance in Australia.

The politicians wake up in the morning, think "There ought to be a law..." about something, and before they leave the office that night, they have made a law.

There are far too many rules, regulations, and restrictions in place. How you folks are ever going to get some freedom back I do not know.
Sad to hear it but it's so very very true and a very good observation! The piss poor governments we've endured in my beautiful country over the last 30 years, how utterly embarrassing. What ever happened to infrastructure and freedom?

Our pollies & PM's lie through their teeth and that's considered normal, they will tell you anything and do the opposite then pass unconstitutional laws at 3am, simply spineless. It has to be said the population, of which I'm a part of are to blame for not standing up! I heard a quote there are some 80,000 plus Ozi's leaving our sunny shores annually! I'm going to join them.

Last edited by Drwnite; 31 May 2014 at 09:58.
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 30 May 2014
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Feb 2009
Location: Bristol UK
Posts: 454
I have all this to go through soon as I try to get my Defender into Australia off the Carnet and imported a personal import Still waiting on my visa decision first, import after that!

G
__________________
Land Rover D90
www.Siroccoverland.com | Follow us on Facebook
Reply With Quote
  #10  
Old 31 May 2014
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Bribie Island Australia
Posts: 678
Quote:
Originally Posted by PanEuropean View Post
Unfortunately, I think the opportunity has passed to regain 'common sense' in governance in Australia.

I visited the country several times on business during the past two years, and it appears to me that it has turned into a Nanny State. The politicians wake up in the morning, think "There ought to be a law..." about something, and before they leave the office that night, they have made a law.

There are far too many rules, regulations, and restrictions in place. How you folks are ever going to get some freedom back I do not know.

I don't mind them passing laws as long as they are going to enforce them equitably, but, as in most third world countries, corruption is rife at all levels of government - anything from outright soliciting for bribes (as was my experience with DoTARS) or a friend of a friend fixing a local council planning issue.


The polistocrats have been hiding behind a raft of secrecy provisions - usually the "commercial in confidence" clauses and we end up with government services costing us $millions more than we should pay for.


I've been toying with building guillotines, I see I nice little earner down the track!!!
Reply With Quote
  #11  
Old 31 May 2014
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jan 2008
Location: UK
Posts: 208
Quote:
Originally Posted by Drwnite View Post
A little known FACT !

The vehicle dealers (importers & otherwise) in this country, the scheming bastards have lobbied the Australian government (DOTARS) the spineless bastards, to a point and in collusion with the manufactures the complete bastards!

Where by they change the absolute minimum on given foreign vehicle, in my case a reflector, a sticker and a small plastic guard. Therefore said vehicle will not meet ADR's (Australian design regulations). No wonder Ozi vehicles are some of the most expensive on the planet! Those who have tried to import their post 1989 pride and joy will know the costs of doing so is so expensive therefore prohibitive.

I put the bastard theory to test word for word (after 6 weeks of intensive calls and emails getting the absolute facts) to DOTARS when trying to import a bike. The DOTARS DORK's reply was Errrr Ohhh we have to keep the vehicles safe on our roads!

"You cant be serious, for 1, how many states in this country are there where you don't have to take your car over the pits every year? QLD, WA & SA for starters, you got Fred Nerk driving round in his FB ute which probably hasn't been over the pits since day 1. No wonder Australian car manufactures are going down the toilet, protected species, unchallenged, uneconomical, crap cars, cost's to the tax paying public propping up these manufactures of shit is gargantuan!

Didn't go over well at all, in fact he said "you can't say that" I asked if he'd like to hear it again but no, THE TRUTH HURTS !

There you have it in a nutshell.

The cartel is alive and thriving!

Same in Europe: the Mercedes Benz truck that takes your cheap goods to the container ship in China costs £30k. The Mercedes Benz truck that collects your cheap goods from the ship in Europe costs £130k.


In this weeks European elections we had massive wins for the UK independence party whose principal policy is to take us out of the hated EU. Needless to say the bought and paid for (by i.e. Mercedes Benz) politicians, PM's past and present are crapping themselves and telling us this will be financial disaster. But for whom would it be a financial disaster?
__________________

Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 31 May 2014
Registered User
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Apr 2012
Posts: 377
Quote:
Originally Posted by Fastship View Post
Politicians, PM's past and present are crapping themselves and telling us this will be financial disaster. But for whom would it be a financial disaster?
I think there's far too many politicians who are no longer in it for community & country. Its all about themselves, lining their own pockets, insider trading and looking after their cashed up mates & the developers. What I've seen in my small town alone makes me cringe. Sure there are exceptions to the rule and it's great to hear you had a win, a glimmer of hope ;-)

I seriously doubt facts will ever surface, way too much money involved and the beauty of it is, they hide behind the laws they make, nice one! If the above mentioned alone miraculously came to light.........

Keelhauling these might return as a popular spectator sport, albeit too good for em

Last edited by Drwnite; 31 May 2014 at 10:11.
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 7 Jul 2014
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
 
Join Date: Jun 2014
Location: Outer Sydney, Australia
Posts: 366
@ Mezo
Reply With Quote
Reply


Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
 
Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On


Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Complete Central America/Mexico/Colombia Border Crossing Information sellheim Central America and Mexico 30 6 Mar 2023 23:33
Provisions for driving in China. - facts. uk_vette West and South Asia 2 24 Jul 2014 07:58
CTP for whole Australia kamil Australia / New Zealand 11 9 Mar 2013 22:22
riding around AUS without registration and roadworthiness inspection Panny Australia / New Zealand 31 29 Nov 2012 18:02
Carnet_ How Do I Get One In South America? gusonopa SOUTH AMERICA 9 6 Jan 2010 14:00

 
 

Announcements

Thinking about traveling? Not sure about the whole thing? Watch the HU Achievable Dream Video Trailers and then get ALL the information you need to get inspired and learn how to travel anywhere in the world!

Have YOU ever wondered who has ridden around the world? We did too - and now here's the list of Circumnavigators!
Check it out now
, and add your information if we didn't find you.

Next HU Eventscalendar

HU Event and other updates on the HUBB Forum "Traveller's Advisories" thread.
ALL Dates subject to change.

2024:

Add yourself to the Updates List for each event!

Questions about an event? Ask here

HUBBUK: info

See all event details

 
World's most listened to Adventure Motorbike Show!
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.

"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)



Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance.

Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.

Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.

Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!


 

What others say about HU...

"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia

"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK

"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia

"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA

"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada

"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa

"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia

"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany

Lots more comments here!



Five books by Graham Field!

Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook

"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.



Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!

New to Horizons Unlimited?

New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!

Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.

Susan and Grant Johnson Read more about Grant & Susan's story

Membership - help keep us going!

Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.

You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.




All times are GMT +1. The time now is 07:09.