The launch of a new Australian Design Rule means reversing technologies will need to be installed in all new vehicle models – from cars through to trucks – from November 1, 2025.
Australian Design Rule 108/00 – Reversing Technologies will apply to all types of light, medium and heavy vehicles.
For new vehicles made from existing models, the technology must be installed from November 1, 2027.
Federal Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Carol Brown says the mandate comes after many years of advocacy from organisations such as KidSafe, and parents who have experienced both fatal and non-fatal driveway incidents.
Reversing technologies, which include reversing cameras and motion sensors, increase driver awareness of vulnerable road users behind a vehicle.
The Australian Government says it is mandating reversing technologies for all new vehicles to provide drivers with the best possible line of sight while reversing.
“If we save even one child’s life through this mandate, it will be worth it,” said Brown.
“We know that reversing aids will improve visibility for drivers to minimise black spots while reserving. The Australian Government predicts that this change will contribute to a reduction in both fatal and non-fatal driveway incidents.
“This new standard supports our unwavering commitment to achieving Vision Zero: zero deaths and serious injuries on our roads by 2050. It will be particularly impactful towards ensuring zero deaths of children seven years and under by 2030, one of the key targets on this vision roadmap.”