Main Roads and Roads Safety Minister Mark Bailey said the investigation, headed by retired District Court Judge Michael Forde, is taking submissions from the public as well as key industry stakeholders.
“We want to bring this industry, particularly around towing from private property, into line with community expectations and input from the community and stakeholders will help us achieve this,” he said.
“A website is now live where people can put in written submissions for the investigation to consider.
“Mr Forde will also be writing to interested parties from today to seek their participation in the investigation.
“Along with tow truck operators, the investigation will seek input from a wide range of stakeholders including other government agencies, police, councils, the RACQ, and associations covering car park managers, small business, restaurant owners and Body Corporate groups.
“We need to hear from all sides to ensure we strike the right balance between fair and reasonable towing practices and a property owner’s right to remove vehicles parked without permission on their property or against signed parking conditions.”
Topics considered by the independent investigation include tow truck fees and charges, minimum standards for signage, restrictions on the maximum distance a vehicle may be towed, education to improve consumer understanding, and whether there is a need for consumer protections such as limiting predatory practices such as the use of ‘spotters’ and ‘bait cars’.
The terms of reference for the investigation provide Mr Forde the flexibility to make recommendations for both regulatory and non-regulatory reforms in the tow truck industry.
Mr Bailey said people could still call the 1800 681 636 hotline to leave their stories as this would also be passed on as part of the investigation.
As at COB 19/05/17 there have been 491 calls to the towies complaints and enquiries hotline. Of these 352 logged complaints.
Top 2 “Hot Spots” account for 164 (46%) of records
- Fortitude Valley, Albion, Newstead 110 (31%),
- Ascot, Hamilton, Eagle Farm 54 (15%)
To leave a written submission go to: http://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/towi
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