By Ashleigh Fielding | posted on January 23, 2020
CLASSIC vehicles that are registered to an approved club and are more than 30 years old will be eligible for a 75 per cent discount on registration if a new State Government scheme is approved.
The Concessions for Classics scheme was announced by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti on Saturday in a bid to bring more classic cars onto the road and boost the automotive industry.
The scheme will remove restrictions that currently prevent modified classic vehicles and street rods from accessing licence concessions, and if successful, would be available in the second half of this year.
“It’s clear that a large amount of classic vehicle enthusiasts are only using their pride and joy for special events such as cruises or shows, so it’s unfair they should pay full registration,” she said.
“Our current registration system also prevents classic car owners from accessing registration concessions if modifications – even safety improvements – have been made to their vehicles.
“This new scheme will remove that red tape and encourage more owners to get their classic cars and bikes out to events.”
Great Southern Street Machine Association (GSSMA) is an approved club registered with the Department of Transport therefore, members are eligible to apply for the scheme.
GSSMA member Brad Collins was enthusiastic about the idea.
“What I like is, cars like hot rods are always over a barrel – they are modified, so they can’t get a concessional licence,” he said.
“They’re in limbo. So I think it’s a great idea.
“Some days, I really want to drive my car but I can’t, because it’s not a registered club day.”
GSSMA President Paul Sargent explained that currently, the group had an invitational registration in place.
This means only registered members with certain cars are approved to drive their cars at club events.
“Some members have more mods than some,” Mr Sargent said.
“The new scheme gives an additional category so if, for example, I wanted to put a bonnet scoop on the HR.”
The Department of Transport is currently drafting regulation changes and upgrading systems to support Concessions for Classics.
Owners will be subject to a number of conditions such as identification labels, annual vehicle inspections and vehicle use being limited to attending club shows and events.
