{"id":"tas:sr-2017-024","name":"Vehicle and Traffic (Heavy Vehicle Charges) Regulations 2017","slug":"vehicle-and-traffic-heavy-vehicle-charges-regulations-2017","collection":"regulation","jurisdiction":"tas","status":"in_force","isInForce":true,"actNumber":"24 of 2017","makingDate":null,"administeringDepartment":null,"currentVersion":{"id":186152,"registerId":"tas-tas:sr-2017-024-current","compilationNumber":null,"startDate":"2026-04-05","status":"InForce","reasons":null,"registeredAt":null},"sections":[{"sectionNumber":"1","sectionType":"section","heading":"Short title","content":"### 1 Short title\n\n> These regulations may be cited as the [Vehicle and Traffic (Heavy Vehicle Charges) Regulations 2017](/view/html/inforce/2026-04-12/sr-2017-024) .","sortOrder":0},{"sectionNumber":"2","sectionType":"section","heading":"Commencement","content":"### 2 Commencement\n\n> These regulations take effect on 1 July 2017.","sortOrder":1},{"sectionNumber":"3","sectionType":"section","heading":"Interpretation","content":"### 3 Interpretation\n\n> In these regulations –\n> \n> > ***articulated bus*** means a bus consisting of more than one rigid section, with passenger access between the sections and the sections connected to one another so as to allow rotary movement between the sections;\n> \n> > ***ATM*** (aggregate trailer mass), of a heavy trailer, means the total maximum mass of the trailer, as stated by the manufacturer, together with its load and mass imposed on the towing vehicle by the trailer when the towing vehicle and trailer are on a horizontal surface;\n> \n> > ***axle group*** means a single axle group, tandem axle group, twinsteer axle group, tri-axle group or quad-axle group;\n> \n> > ***B-double combination*** means a combination consisting of a prime mover towing 2 semi-trailers;\n> \n> > ***B-double lead trailer*** means a semi-trailer that is nominated for use as the lead trailer in a B-double combination;\n> \n> > ***B-triple combination*** means a combination consisting of a prime mover towing 3 semi-trailers;\n> \n> > ***B-triple lead trailer*** means a semi-trailer that is nominated for use as the lead trailer in a B-triple combination;\n> \n> > ***B-triple middle trailer*** means a semi-trailer that is nominated for use as the second trailer in a B-triple combination;\n> \n> > ***bus (type 1)*** means a rigid bus that has 2 axles and an MRC not exceeding 12 tonnes;\n> \n> > ***bus (type 2)*** means –\n> > \n> > > > (a) a rigid bus that has 2 axles and an MRC exceeding 12 tonnes; or\n> > > \n> > > > (b) a rigid bus that has 3 or 4 axles;\n> \n> > ***compliance plate*** means a plate authorised to be placed on a vehicle, or taken to have been placed on a vehicle, under the [Motor Vehicle Standards Act 1989](/view/html/inforce/2026-04-12/act-1989-999) of the Commonwealth;\n> \n> > ***converter dolly*** means a trailer with a fifth wheel coupling designed to support a semi-trailer for hauling purposes;\n> \n> > ***dog trailer*** means a trailer with –\n> > \n> > > > (a) one axle group or single axle at the front that is steered by connection to the towing vehicle by a drawbar; and\n> > > \n> > > > (b) one axle group or single axle at the rear;\n> \n> > ***drawbar*** means a part of a trailer (other than a semi-trailer) that connects the trailer body to a coupling for towing purposes;\n> \n> > ***driver*** means the person driving or in control of a motor vehicle;\n> \n> > ***fifth wheel coupling*** means a device, other than the upper rotating element and the kingpin (which are parts of a semi-trailer), used with a prime mover, semi-trailer or converter dolly to permit quick coupling and uncoupling and to provide for articulation;\n> \n> > ***GTMR*** (gross trailer mass rating), of a trailer, means the mass transmitted to the ground by the axles of the trailer when –\n> > \n> > > > (a) coupled to a towing vehicle; and\n> > > \n> > > > (b) carrying its maximum load approximately uniformly distributed over the trailer's load-bearing area;\n> \n> > ***lead trailer***, in a combination, means the trailer that is, or that is to be, attached to the prime mover;\n> \n> > ***load-carrying vehicle*** means a vehicle designed and constructed to haul or carry goods and wares in addition to any fuel, water, lubricants, tools and any other equipment or accessories necessary for normal operation of the vehicle;\n> \n> > ***long combination truck*** means a truck nominated to haul 2 or more trailers;\n> \n> > ***low loader*** means a gooseneck semi-trailer with a loading deck no more than one metre above the ground;\n> \n> > ***low loader dolly*** means a mass-distributing device that –\n> > \n> > > > (a) is usually coupled between a prime mover and a low loader; and\n> > > \n> > > > (b) consists of a gooseneck rigid frame; and\n> > > \n> > > > (c) does not directly carry any load on itself; and\n> > > \n> > > > (d) is equipped with one or more axles, a kingpin and a fifth wheel coupling;\n> \n> > ***medium combination truck*** means a truck, other than a short combination truck, nominated to haul one trailer;\n> \n> > ***MRC*** (Mass Rating for Charging), in relation to a vehicle, means –\n> > \n> > > > (a) the maximum mass of the vehicle, including any load, recorded on the compliance plate as the GVM, GTMR or ATM of the vehicle; or\n> > > \n> > > > (b) in relation to a vehicle for which there is no compliance plate, its operating mass;\n> \n> > ***multi-combination prime mover*** means a prime mover nominated to haul 2 or more trailers;\n> \n> > ***nominated*** means nominated by the person applying for registration;\n> \n> > ***operating mass***, in relation to a vehicle, means the maximum mass of the vehicle, including any load, as determined by the vehicle registration authority having regard to the design and construction of the vehicle or of any of its components;\n> \n> > ***pig trailer*** means a trailer with one axle group or single axle near the middle of its load-carrying surface, and connected to the towing vehicle by a drawbar;\n> \n> > ***pole-type trailer*** means a trailer that –\n> > \n> > > > (a) is attached to a towing vehicle by means of a pole or an attachment fitted to a pole; and\n> > > \n> > > > (b) is ordinarily used for transporting loads, such as logs, pipes, structural members or other long objects, that are generally capable of supporting themselves like beams between supports;\n> \n> > ***quad-axle group*** means a group of 4 axles, in which the horizontal distance between the centre-lines of the outermost axles is more than 3.2 metres but not more than 4.9 metres;\n> \n> > ***road*** means an area that is open to or used by the public and is developed for, or has as one of its main uses, the driving or riding of motor vehicles;\n> \n> > ***road-related area*** means –\n> > \n> > > > (a) an area that divides a road; or\n> > > \n> > > > (b) a footpath or nature strip adjacent to a road; or\n> > > \n> > > > (c) an area that is open to the public and is designated for use by cyclists or animals; or\n> > > \n> > > > (d) an area that is not a road and that is open to or used by the public for driving, riding or parking motor vehicles; or\n> > > \n> > > > (e) any shoulder of a road; or\n> > > \n> > > > (f) an area that is a road-related area for the purposes of a law of a State or Territory of the Commonwealth;\n> \n> > ***short combination prime mover*** means a prime mover nominated to haul one semi-trailer;\n> \n> > ***short combination truck*** means a truck nominated to haul one trailer where, according to the nomination –\n> > \n> > > > (a) the combination has 6 axles or fewer; and\n> > > \n> > > > (b) the maximum total mass that is legally allowable for the combination is 42.5 tonnes or less;\n> \n> > ***single axle*** means an axle not forming part of an axle group;\n> \n> > ***single axle group*** means a group of 2 or more axles, in which the horizontal distance between the centre-lines of the outermost axles is less than one metre;\n> \n> > ***special-purpose vehicle*** – see [regulation 4](#GS4@EN) ;\n> \n> > ***special-purpose vehicle (type O)*** – see [regulation 5](#GS5@EN) ;\n> \n> > ***special-purpose vehicle (type P)*** means a special-purpose vehicle built, or permanently modified, primarily for –\n> > \n> > > > (a) off-road use; or\n> > > \n> > > > (b) use on a road-related area; or\n> > > \n> > > > (c) use on an area of road that is under construction or repair;\n> \n> > ***special-purpose vehicle (type T)*** means a special-purpose vehicle (other than a special-purpose vehicle (type P)) –\n> > \n> > > > (a) built, or permanently modified, primarily for use on roads; and\n> > > \n> > > > (b) that has no axle or axle group loaded in excess of the axle load limits specified in the table to [regulation 5](#GS5@EN) ;\n> \n> > ***tandem axle group*** means a group of at least 2 axles, in which the horizontal distance between the centre-lines of the outermost axles is at least one metre but not more than 2 metres;\n> \n> > ***tri-axle group*** means a group of at least 3 axles, in which the horizontal distance between the centre-lines of the outermost axles is more than 2 metres, but not more than 3.2 metres;\n> \n> > ***truck (type 1)*** means a truck that has –\n> > \n> > > > (a) 2 axles and an MRC not exceeding 12 tonnes; or\n> > > \n> > > > (b) 3 axles and an MRC not exceeding 16.5 tonnes; or\n> > > \n> > > > (c) 4 or more axles and an MRC not exceeding 20 tonnes;\n> \n> > ***truck (type 2)*** means a truck that has –\n> > \n> > > > (a) 2 axles and an MRC exceeding 12 tonnes; or\n> > > \n> > > > (b) 3 axles and an MRC exceeding 16.5 tonnes; or\n> > > \n> > > > (c) 4 or more axles and an MRC exceeding 20 tonnes;\n> \n> > ***twinsteer axle group*** means a group of 2 axles –\n> > \n> > > > (a) with single tyres; and\n> > > \n> > > > (b) fitted to a motor vehicle; and\n> > > \n> > > > (c) connected to the same steering mechanism; and\n> > > \n> > > > (d) the horizontal distance between the centre-lines of which is at least one metre, but not more than 2 metres.","sortOrder":2},{"sectionNumber":"4","sectionType":"section","heading":"Special-purpose vehicle","content":"### 4 Special-purpose vehicle\n\n> > (1)  In these regulations –\n> > \n> > > ***special-purpose vehicle*** means –\n> > > \n> > > > > (a) a vehicle (other than a caravan, mobile home, mobile library, mobile workshop, mobile laboratory, mobile billboard or a vehicle that the regulations declare not to be a special-purpose vehicle for the purposes of this definition) where the primary purpose for which it was built, or permanently modified, was not the carriage of goods or passengers; or\n> > > > \n> > > > > (b) any of the following vehicles:\n> > > > > \n> > > > > > > (i) a forklift;\n> > > > > > \n> > > > > > > (ii) a straddle carrier;\n> > > > > > \n> > > > > > > (iii) a mobile cherry picker;\n> > > > > > \n> > > > > > > (iv) a mobile crane; or\n> > > > \n> > > > > (c) a vehicle declared by the regulations to be a special-purpose vehicle for the purposes of this definition.\n> \n> > (2)  For the purposes of [subregulation (1)](#GS4@Gs1@EN)  –\n> > \n> > > ***goods*** does not include fuel, water, lubricants, tools or any other equipment or accessories necessary for the normal operation of the vehicle;\n> > \n> > > ***passengers*** does not include the driver, a trainee driver or any person necessary for the normal operation of the vehicle.","sortOrder":3},{"sectionNumber":"5","sectionType":"section","heading":"Special-purpose vehicle (type O)","content":"### 5 Special-purpose vehicle (type O)\n\n> In these regulations, ***special-purpose vehicle (type O)*** means a special-purpose vehicle (other than a special-purpose vehicle (type P)) –\n> \n> > > (a) built, or permanently modified, primarily for use on roads; and\n> > \n> > > (b) that has at least one axle or axle group loaded in excess of the axle load limits specified in the following table:\n> > > \n> > > | Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |\n> > > | Item No. | Type of axle or axle group | Axle load limit (tonnes) |\n> > > | 1. | Single axles – |  |\n> > > |  | (a) 2 tyres | 6.0 |\n> > > |  | (b) 2 wide profile tyres – |  |\n> > > |  | (i) 375mm to 450mm | 6.7 |\n> > > |  | (ii) more than 450mm | 7.0 |\n> > > |  | (c) 4 or more tyres – |  |\n> > > |  | (i) on pig trailers | 8.5 |\n> > > |  | (ii) on other vehicles | 9.0 |\n> > > | 2. | Twinsteer axle groups – |  |\n> > > |  | (a) non-load sharing suspensions | 10.0 |\n> > > |  | (b) load sharing suspensions | 11.0 |\n> > > | 3. | Tandem axle groups – |  |\n> > > |  | (a) 4 tyres | 11.0 |\n> > > |  | (b) 4 wide profile tyres – |  |\n> > > |  | (i) 375mm to 450mm | 13.3 |\n> > > |  | (ii) more than 450mm | 14.0 |\n> > > |  | (c) 6 tyres | 13.0 |\n> > > |  | (d) 8 or more tyres – |  |\n> > > |  | (i) on pig trailers | 15.0 |\n> > > |  | (ii) on other vehicles | 16.5 |\n> > > | 4. | Tri-axle groups – |  |\n> > > |  | (a) 6, 8 or 10 tyres | 15.0 |\n> > > |  | (b) 6 wide profile tyres (375mm or more) – |  |\n> > > |  | (i) on pig trailers | 18.0 |\n> > > |  | (ii) on other vehicles | 20.0 |\n> > > |  | (c) 12 or more tyres – |  |\n> > > |  | (i) on pig trailers | 18.0 |\n> > > |  | (ii) on other vehicles | 20.0 |","sortOrder":4},{"sectionNumber":"6","sectionType":"section","heading":"Close-spaced axles","content":"### 6 Close-spaced axles\n\n> > (1)  For the purposes of these regulations (other than the definitions of *single axle group*, *tandem axle group*, *twinsteer axle group*, *tri-axle group* and *quad-axle group*) –\n> > \n> > > > (a) 2 axles less than one metre apart are to be regarded as one axle; and\n> > > \n> > > > (b) 3 axles not more than 2 metres apart are to be regarded as 2 axles; and\n> > > \n> > > > (c) 4 axles not more than 3.2 metres apart are to be regarded as 3 axles.\n> \n> > (2)  A reference to a distance in subregulation (1) is a reference to the horizontal distance between the centre-lines of –\n> > \n> > > > (a) in the case of subregulation (1)(a), the 2 axles; and\n> > > \n> > > > (b) in any other case, the outermost axles.","sortOrder":5},{"sectionNumber":"7","sectionType":"section","heading":"Determination of number of trailers","content":"### 7 Determination of number of trailers\n\n> For the purposes of these regulations, in determining the number of trailers that a prime mover or truck is nominated to haul –\n> \n> > > (a) a converter dolly and a semi-trailer when used together are to be regarded as one trailer; and\n> > \n> > > (b) a low loader dolly and a low loader when used together are to be regarded as one trailer.","sortOrder":6},{"sectionNumber":"8","sectionType":"section","heading":"Heavy vehicles in 2 or more categories","content":"### 8 Heavy vehicles in 2 or more categories\n\n> For the purposes of these regulations, if a heavy vehicle falls within 2 or more categories of heavy vehicle, the tax payable for the heavy vehicle is the higher or highest of the taxes that could apply to the heavy vehicle.","sortOrder":7},{"sectionNumber":"9","sectionType":"section","heading":"Heavy vehicle tax","content":"### 9 Heavy vehicle tax\n\n> [*\\[Regulation 9 Substituted by S.R. 2024, No. 62, Applied:29 Oct 2024\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2024-10-29/sr-2024-062#GS4@EN) For the purposes of [section 34A(2)(b)](/view/html/inforce/2026-04-12/act-1999-070#GS34A@Gs2@hpb@EN) of the Act, the amount of tax payable for a heavy vehicle for the financial year commencing 1 July 2024, and for each subsequent financial year, is calculated by adding together –\n> \n> > > (a) the road component of motor tax for a heavy vehicle of that type calculated in accordance with the table in [Part 1 of Schedule 1](#JS1@HS1@EN) ; and\n> > \n> > > (b) the regulatory component of motor tax for a heavy vehicle of that type calculated in accordance with the table in [Part 2 of Schedule 1](#JS1@HS2@EN) .","sortOrder":8},{"sectionNumber":"SCHEDULE 1 - Heavy Vehicle Tax","sectionType":"part","heading":"SCHEDULE 1 - Heavy Vehicle Tax","content":"# SCHEDULE 1 - Heavy Vehicle Tax SCHEDULE 1 - Heavy Vehicle Tax\n\n[*\\[Schedule 1 Substituted by S.R. 2024, No. 62, Applied:29 Oct 2024\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2024-10-29/sr-2024-062#GS5@EN)\n\n[Regulation 9](#GS9@EN)","sortOrder":9},{"sectionNumber":"Part 1","sectionType":"part","heading":"Road Component of Motor Tax for a financial year","content":"# Part 1 Road Component of Motor Tax for a financial year\n\n[*\\[Part 1 of Schedule 1 Substituted by S.R. 2021, No. 43, Applied:01 Jul 2021\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2021-07-01/sr-2021-043#GS4@EN) [*\\[Part 1 of Schedule 1 Substituted by S.R. 2022, No. 69, Applied:27 Sep 2022\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2022-09-27/sr-2022-069#GS4@Hpa@EN) [*\\[Part 1 of Schedule 1 Substituted by S.R. 2023, No. 63, Applied:20 Sep 2023\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2023-09-20/sr-2023-063#GS4@EN) [*\\[Part 1 of Schedule 1 Substituted by S.R. 2024, No. 62, Applied:29 Oct 2024\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2024-10-29/sr-2024-062#GS5@EN)","sortOrder":10},{"sectionNumber":"Division 1","sectionType":"division","heading":"Load-carrying vehicles","content":"## Division 1 Load-carrying vehicles\n\n[*\\[Division 1 of Part 1 of Schedule 1 Inserted by S.R. 2021, No. 43, Applied:01 Jul 2021\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2021-07-01/sr-2021-043#GS4@EN) [*\\[Division 1 of Part 1 of Schedule 1 Substituted by S.R. 2022, No. 69, Applied:27 Sep 2022\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2022-09-27/sr-2022-069#GS4@Hpa@EN) [*\\[Division 1 of Part 1 of Schedule 1 Substituted by S.R. 2023, No. 63, Applied:20 Sep 2023\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2023-09-20/sr-2023-063#GS4@EN) [*\\[Division 1 of Part 1 of Schedule 1 Substituted by S.R. 2024, No. 62, Applied:29 Oct 2024\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2024-10-29/sr-2024-062#GS5@EN)\n\n| Vehicle type | 2 axles | 3 axles | 4 axles | 5 or more axles |\n| Trucks |  |  |  |  |\n| Truck (type 1) | $485 | $876 | $876 | $876 |\n| Truck (type 2) | $876 | $994 | $994 | $994 |\n| Short combination truck | $876 | $994 | $1 993 | $1 993 |\n| Medium combination truck | $10 839 | $10 839 | $11 707 | $11 707 |\n| Long combination truck | $14 985 | $14 985 | $14 985 | $14 985 |\n| Prime movers |  |  |  |  |\n| Short combination prime mover | $847 | $4 831 | $5 193 | $5 193 |\n| Multi-combination prime mover | $12 255 | $12 255 | $13 481 | $13 481 |","sortOrder":11},{"sectionNumber":"Division 2","sectionType":"division","heading":"Load-carrying trailers","content":"## Division 2 Load-carrying trailers\n\n[*\\[Division 2 of Part 1 of Schedule 1 Inserted by S.R. 2021, No. 43, Applied:01 Jul 2021\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2021-07-01/sr-2021-043#GS4@EN) [*\\[Division 2 of Part 1 of Schedule 1 Substituted by S.R. 2022, No. 69, Applied:27 Sep 2022\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2022-09-27/sr-2022-069#GS4@Hpa@EN) [*\\[Division 2 of Part 1 of Schedule 1 Substituted by S.R. 2023, No. 63, Applied:20 Sep 2023\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2023-09-20/sr-2023-063#GS4@EN) [*\\[Division 2 of Part 1 of Schedule 1 Substituted by S.R. 2024, No. 62, Applied:29 Oct 2024\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2024-10-29/sr-2024-062#GS5@EN)\n\n|  | Charge | per axle ($) |  |  |\n| Trailer type | Single axle | Tandem axle group | Tri-axle group | Quad-axle group and above |\n| Goods-carrying trailer with a GVM less than 9 tonnes | $201 | $100 | $67 | $50 |\n| Pig trailer with a GVM of 9 tonnes or more | $720 | $720 | $720 | $720 |\n| Dog trailer with a GVM of 9 tonnes or more | $720 | $720 | $720 | $720 |\n| Semi-trailer with a GVM of 9 tonnes or more | $720 | $915 | $650 | $488 |\n| B-double lead trailer and B-triple lead and middle trailers with a GVM of 9 tonnes or more | $720 | $915 | $650 | $488 |\n| Converter dolly | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |","sortOrder":12},{"sectionNumber":"Division 3","sectionType":"division","heading":"Buses","content":"## Division 3 Buses\n\n[*\\[Division 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 1 Inserted by S.R. 2021, No. 43, Applied:01 Jul 2021\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2021-07-01/sr-2021-043#GS4@EN) [*\\[Division 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 1 Substituted by S.R. 2022, No. 69, Applied:27 Sep 2022\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2022-09-27/sr-2022-069#GS4@Hpa@EN) [*\\[Division 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 1 Substituted by S.R. 2023, No. 63, Applied:20 Sep 2023\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2023-09-20/sr-2023-063#GS4@EN) [*\\[Division 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 1 Substituted by S.R. 2024, No. 62, Applied:29 Oct 2024\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2024-10-29/sr-2024-062#GS5@EN)\n\n| Bus type | 2 axles | 3 axles | 4 or more axles |\n| Bus (type 1) | $363 |  |  |\n| Bus (type 2) | $376 | $2 751 | $2 751 |\n| Articulated bus |  | $376 | $376 |","sortOrder":13},{"sectionNumber":"Division 4","sectionType":"division","heading":"Special-purpose vehicles","content":"## Division 4 Special-purpose vehicles\n\n[*\\[Division 4 of Part 1 of Schedule 1 Inserted by S.R. 2021, No. 43, Applied:01 Jul 2021\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2021-07-01/sr-2021-043#GS4@EN) [*\\[Division 4 of Part 1 of Schedule 1 Substituted by S.R. 2022, No. 69, Applied:27 Sep 2022\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2022-09-27/sr-2022-069#GS4@Hpa@EN) [*\\[Division 4 of Part 1 of Schedule 1 Substituted by S.R. 2023, No. 63, Applied:20 Sep 2023\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2023-09-20/sr-2023-063#GS4@EN) [*\\[Division 4 of Part 1 of Schedule 1 Substituted by S.R. 2024, No. 62, Applied:29 Oct 2024\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2024-10-29/sr-2024-062#GS5@EN)\n\n| Vehicle type |  |\n| Special-purpose vehicle (type P) | No charge |\n| Special-purpose vehicle (type T) | $353 |\n| Special-purpose vehicle (type O) | Calculated using the formula:$441 + ($441 x number of axles more than 2) |","sortOrder":14},{"sectionNumber":"Part 2","sectionType":"part","heading":"Regulatory Component of Motor Tax for a financial year","content":"# Part 2 Regulatory Component of Motor Tax for a financial year\n\n[*\\[Part 2 of Schedule 1 Substituted by S.R. 2018, No. 16, Applied:01 Jul 2018\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2018-07-01/sr-2018-016#GS4@EN) [*\\[Part 2 of Schedule 1 Substituted by S.R. 2023, No. 63, Applied:20 Sep 2023\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2023-09-20/sr-2023-063#GS4@EN) [*\\[Part 2 of Schedule 1 Substituted by S.R. 2024, No. 62, Applied:29 Oct 2024\\]*](/view/html/inforce/2024-10-29/sr-2024-062#GS5@EN)","sortOrder":15}],"analysis":{"flash_summary":{"complexity_score":7,"scope_assessment":{"changed":true,"description":"The instrument as presented has expanded and been reworked since the original 2017 regulations. Key scope changes include: the explicit statutory formula that splits heavy vehicle tax into two components (road component + regulatory component) and the substitution of Schedule 1 to provide detailed, differentiated rate tables (regulation 9; Schedule 1 substitutions noted). Amendments inserted more granular divisions (separate divisions for load‑carrying vehicles, trailers, buses, and special‑purpose vehicles), added per‑axle charging, and introduced multi‑tiered special‑purpose vehicle types with axle‑load tables (regs 4–5; Schedule 1). Those changes move the instrument from a simpler flat or single-dimension charge toward a technical, rate-table driven regime that targets vehicle architecture and axle/tyre/load characteristics, increasing regulatory detail, compliance requirements and behavioural incentives compared with a narrower original purpose of setting a general heavy‑vehicle registration charge."},"complexity_factors":["Extensive technical definitions section with ~47 defined terms (regulation 3) including many vehicle- and axle-type definitions","Multiple cross-references between definitions and later rules (regs 3, 4, 5, 6, 7) creating dependency chains","Two-component tax formula (road + regulatory) requiring summation of separate tables (regulation 9; Schedule 1 Parts 1 and 2)","Schedule 1 contains multiple divisions and many rate tables (trucks, trailers, buses, special-purpose vehicles) with per-axle and per-vehicle cells","Special-purpose vehicle regime subdivided into types (P, T, O) with different tests and an axle-load table (regs 4–5)","Counting rules for close-spaced axles and trailer combinations add non-linear measurement logic (regulations 6–7)","Rule that the highest applicable tax applies when a vehicle fits multiple categories (regulation 8) creates a max-selection rule rather than additive or average approach","Multiple post‑enactment substitutions/amendments (2018, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024) mean the instrument incorporates layered historical changes and versioning complexity","Numeric and unit complexity: a mix of per‑axle rates, fixed charges and formulas (e.g. special-purpose vehicle (type O) formula), and many exceptions (e.g. converter dollies charged $0 in some tables)"],"plain_english_summary":"**What this instrument does (mechanics)**\n\n- Sets the rules for how the heavy-vehicle tax (the “heavy vehicle tax”) is calculated for each financial year (regulation 9; Schedule 1).\n- Breaks the tax into two parts that are added together: a *road component* and a *regulatory component* (regulation 9). The amounts for each component are listed in tables in Schedule 1 (Part 1 and Part 2 respectively).\n- Defines a wide range of technical vehicle categories and measurement rules (e.g. truck types, bus types, prime movers, trailers, axle-group definitions, special-purpose vehicles) that determine which table and rate apply (regulation 3; regs 4–6).\n- Provides rules about how to count trailers and closely‑spaced axles for the purpose of applying the tables (regulations 6–7).\n- States that if a heavy vehicle falls into more than one category, the owner pays the higher applicable tax (regulation 8).\n\n**Who it affects**\n\n- Vehicle owners/registrants of heavy vehicles and trailers (truck operators, bus operators, freight companies, owners of special‑purpose vehicles) — they are the parties who pay the tax when registering the vehicle.\n- Vehicle registration authorities and the administering department (named as Department of State Growth) — they apply the definitions, collect tax and enforce compliance.\n- Manufacturers and modifiers to the extent that compliance plates and declared mass ratings (GVM, GTMR, ATM) determine the taxable category and charge (regulation 3 definitions).\n\n**Why it matters (practical effects)**\n\n- The tax levels vary by vehicle type, number of axles and trailer type. Heavier, more axled or multi‑combination vehicles typically face higher charges (Schedule 1 tables). For example, long combination trucks and multi‑combination prime movers attract materially higher road-component charges (Schedule 1, Part 1, Division 1).\n- Technical definitions and counting rules materially affect the tax payable: how axles are grouped, whether a trailer counts as a converter dolly or a semi‑trailer, and how a vehicle is “nominated” on registration can change which cell of a table applies (regs 3, 6–7).\n- The instrument creates financial incentives for operators to choose vehicle configurations, axle spacings, trailer types or nominations that reduce tax exposure (see regs 3, 6–7, Schedule 1 tables). It also imposes an administrative compliance task (accurately declaring nomination, compliance plates and mass ratings).\n\n**Official purpose-claims and a short test against costs and incentives**\n\n- The regulation implements a differentiated charge regime (road + regulatory components) that targets charges by type/axle/load profile (regulation 9; Schedule 1). The apparent policy mechanism is to align charges with vehicle type and axle/weight characteristics.\n\n- Practical trade-offs and implementation risks:\n  - Administrative burden: detailed technical definitions (many defined terms and axle‑group rules) increase the information registrants must supply and registration authorities must verify (regulation 3; regs 4–7). Verification depends on compliance plates and declared mass ratings (regulation 3).\n  - Behavioural incentives: operators can reduce tax by altering nominations, axle spacing, tyre types, or trailer combinations — that introduces substitution effects where operators change equipment or classification to lower taxes (regulation 3; regulations 6–7; Schedule 1 tables).\n  - Concentrated vs diffuse effects: changes in charge rates or classification mainly affect heavy‑vehicle operators and fleet buyers (concentrated), while road funding and regulatory costs are spread across taxpayers or road users (diffuse). The instrument channels dollars from registrants to the registration/road funding system via statutory tax collection (regulation 9; Schedule 1).\n  - Compliance/enforcement risk: precise measurement (axle loads, tyre profile, GTMR/ATM) is required; mistakes or mis‑declarations create disputes and require administrative oversight (regulation 3; Schedule 1 definitions).\n\n**Who pays, who decides, and what behaviour changes**\n\n- Who pays: the registered owner/registrant of the heavy vehicle on registration (Schedule 1 read with regulation 9).\n- Who decides: registrants decide nominations (categories, prime mover/trailer nomination) when applying for registration; registration authorities apply the definitions and tables to calculate tax (regulation 3; definition of “nominated”).\n- Behavioural changes likely to follow: choice of vehicle architecture (axle groupings, trailer types), nomination strategy, and equipment (tyres, axle spacing, use of dollies) to manage tax liabilities; potential administrative activity to ensure compliance plates and mass ratings match declared nominations.\n\n**Key operative provisions (short reference)**\n\n- Definitions and measurement rules: regulation 3; regs 4–7 (special‑purpose vehicle types; close‑spaced axles; trailer counting rules).\n- Rule on multiple categories: regulation 8.\n- Tax calculation: regulation 9 (tax = road component + regulatory component) and Schedule 1 (Part 1 = road component; Part 2 = regulatory component) with detailed rate tables and per‑axle charges.\n\n(References in brackets are to the regulation/regulatory provisions cited above.)"},"issue_detection":{"absurdities":[],"contradictions":[]},"flash_summary_failed":{"failed":true,"reason":"Unauthenticated. Configure AI_GATEWAY_API_KEY or use a provider module. Learn more: https://ai-sdk.dev/unauthenticated-ai-gateway","source":"analysis-cron"},"kimi_summary":{"content_quality":"ok","complexity_score":6,"scope_assessment":{"changed":false,"description":"The legislation remains focused on its original purpose of establishing a charging framework for heavy vehicle registration. While the specific tax rates in Schedule 1 are updated regularly (as evidenced by multiple substitution notes for 2021-2024), the structural scope—defining vehicle categories and setting calculation methodologies—has remained consistent since commencement in 2017."},"complexity_factors":["47+ defined terms in the interpretation section, many with nested sub-definitions (e.g., 'special-purpose vehicle' has three tiers: general definition, then types P, T, and O)","Extensive cross-referencing between definitions (e.g., 'MRC' references compliance plates and operating mass; 'special-purpose vehicle (type O)' references a table in regulation 5)","Mathematical formulas for tax calculation (e.g., '$441 + ($441 x number of axles more than 2)' for type O special-purpose vehicles)","Multiple conditional tables in Schedule 1 with intersecting variables (vehicle type × axle count × weight thresholds)","Complex vehicle categorisation requiring simultaneous assessment of: axle configuration, mass ratings, manufacturer specifications, and nominated use","Special counting rules for axles (regulation 6) and trailers (regulation 7) that modify the standard definitions","Hierarchy of application rules (regulation 8: if a vehicle fits multiple categories, pay the highest tax)"],"plain_english_summary":"This legislation sets out how much registration tax (called 'heavy vehicle tax') owners must pay for heavy vehicles in Tasmania. It applies to trucks, prime movers, trailers, buses, and special-purpose vehicles like cranes and forklifts.\n\n**What it does:**\n- **Defines vehicle types**: It creates detailed categories based on axle numbers, weight ratings (MRC), and configurations (like B-doubles, articulated buses, and pig trailers).\n- **Calculates tax in two parts**: \n  - **Road component**: Pays for road wear and maintenance.\n  - **Regulatory component**: Covers administration and safety regulation costs.\n- **Sets specific dollar amounts**: Schedule 1 contains tables showing exactly how much tax applies to each vehicle type based on axles and configuration.\n\n**Who it affects:**\n- Anyone registering a heavy vehicle (over 4.5 tonnes) in Tasmania.\n- Transport operators, trucking companies, bus operators, and businesses using special-purpose vehicles.\n\n**Why it matters:**\nThe tax system is designed so that heavier vehicles that cause more road damage pay more. It also ensures that different vehicle configurations (like multi-trailer road trains) are taxed appropriately for their impact on the road network. The rates are updated regularly (most recently in 2024) to reflect current costs."},"summary":{"complexity_score":4,"scope_assessment":{"changed":false,"description":"Based on the available information, the regulation appears to have remained focused on its original purpose of prescribing heavy vehicle road charges in Tasmania. Amendments since 2017 have most likely updated fee amounts rather than expanded or contracted the fundamental scope of the instrument."},"complexity_factors":["Interaction with national heavy vehicle charging frameworks adds a layer of federal-state complexity","Charges likely involve tiered structures based on vehicle type, mass, and axle configuration — requiring technical knowledge to apply correctly","The regulation has been amended multiple times since 2017, meaning operators must track which version applies to their circumstances","Limited substantive content is visible in the provided text — the actual schedules of charges (the most complex part) are not shown, making full assessment difficult","Cross-references to the parent Vehicle and Traffic Act and potentially to Heavy Vehicle National Law add interpretive complexity"],"plain_english_summary":"These regulations set the fees and road‑use charges for heavy vehicles in Tasmania, determining how much operators and transport businesses pay to cover their greater wear on roads. They affect anyone who owns or runs large commercial vehicles, tie into the national heavy‑vehicle charging approach, and matter because they allocate road maintenance costs (and can influence transport prices); non‑compliance can attract penalties."}},"importantCases":[],"_links":{"self":"/api/acts/vehicle-and-traffic-heavy-vehicle-charges-regulations-2017","history":"/api/acts/vehicle-and-traffic-heavy-vehicle-charges-regulations-2017/history","analysis":"/api/acts/vehicle-and-traffic-heavy-vehicle-charges-regulations-2017/analysis","conflicts":"/api/acts/vehicle-and-traffic-heavy-vehicle-charges-regulations-2017/conflicts","importantCases":"/api/acts/vehicle-and-traffic-heavy-vehicle-charges-regulations-2017/important-cases","documents":"/api/acts/vehicle-and-traffic-heavy-vehicle-charges-regulations-2017/documents"}}