Multi combination light towing
Weel, I got a reply from Transport Main roads Qld.
Here it is.
Our Reference: FI26409 / CCN EN201710311638572115
Dear Mr ******
Thank you for contacting the Department of Transport and Main Roads about light vehicle multi-combination configurations.
Despite the definition of ‘road train’ in Queensland legislation, the Queensland Road Rules (QRR) expressly prohibit the driver of a motor vehicle, other than a heavy vehicle, from towing more than one motor vehicle or trailer. A heavy vehicle is a vehicle with a gross vehicle mass (GVM) of more than 4.5t. This means that it is illegal for a person to tow a light vehicle multi-combination such as the combination depicted in the media article on a road in Queensland. There is no provision in Queensland legislation to exempt a driver from complying with this rule (whether or not a permit has been issued in another jurisdiction).
Generally the road rules in each state and territory are adopted from the Australian Road Rules to provide for uniformity and consistency across the country. However, in this instance, the rules for towing have some differences between jurisdictions. While VicRoads may be able to issue a permit for a light vehicle combination, this option is not available under Queensland legislation.
General information on the legal and safety requirements for towing in Queensland can be found in the safe towing guide.
I trust this information is of assistance. If you require any further information, please contact Ms Karen Tanzer, Policy Advisor, Transport Regulation Branch, on 3066 2616 between 8:00am and 3:00pm, Monday to Friday or by email to Karen.j.tanzer@tmr.qld.gov.au.
Yours sincerely,
Elizabeth Garbutt
Principal Policy Advisor (Licensing)
So it appears Mr. Mildura could be on dangerous ground if he tows his rig in Qld. An illegal vehicle combination can be considered an unregistered and unroadworthy vehicle thus making his insurances void. Qld. TMR reckon the Victorian VASS is not recognised in Qld .as it refers to an illegal vehicle and activity.
I spent a bit of time on the 'phone with RMS and at first the person thought I was joking. Then 'phoned back with a similar opinion to the Qld. one.
Can the seller be also liable - Duty of Care?
That shows how crap our State bases laws are and the need for National road rules, etc. legal in his home state but would almost certainly be booked travelling interstate.
Not saying this should be legal by the way, just another area that could cause issues when travelling interstate with what you think is something legal.