GCM upgrade law changes implemented
As of the 1st of July 2018 Gross Combined Mass (GCM) upgrades on new vehicles by Second Stage Manufacturers (SSM) will no longer be allowed. Even if your not buying a new vehicle to do a GCM upgrade, as a hunter/camper there is a high chance it will affect you.
Essentially what was happening was Caravaners were buying brand new vehicles. Then upgrading the GCM, by having the vehicle’s suspension, brakes and chassis modified by an aftermarket company. This could then be mod plated by an engineer.
Official notification of the changes here.
Video chat about the GCM upgrade law changes
I recently had the opportunity to do an interview with Shauno from 4WD Action at the 4WD Supacentre Parkinson open night. We discussed the implications of the changes:
How does this affect you?
As with any changes to laws along with that comes administering those laws. That’s to say, they will police them.
This doesn’t mean they will only target Caravaners either. They will set-up a weight station (as they already do occasionally) and weigh most vehicles that come along the road. Regardless of whether your towing a trailer or not they will weigh your vehicle.
So it’s important that you understand your Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) limits and your GCM limits. As discussed previously it’s very easy to go over your GVM, once you start modifying your vehicle with accessories.
I recently went to the dump with my 2013 Toyota Hilux dual cab turbo diesel and weighed in at 2.44 ton. My GVM is 2.71 ton which means I’ve only got 270kg spare, not much at all.
What happens if your over?
If you get caught over GCM/GVM in Queensland you’ll receive a hefty fine and sent home.
I know of two people that were at the beginning of there Cape York trip from NSW with their campervans and both were sent home and received approximately $600 each in fines. They were to return home immediately.
What a way to ruin a holiday or a good hunt.
GCM upgrade law changes conclusion
Everything you add to your vehicle eats into your GVM. If your not paying attention you will quickly go over your GVM.
If your going to be loading up your ute or taking a quad, don’t risk it. Just get a trailer and be done with it. We all know someone with at least a small box trailer.
Don’t be caught out with the “she’ll be right” attitude, because it could easily ruin a good hunt. A lot of hunters plan massive trips that are only once a year. Don’t make your next trip bi-annual!