Tow truck operators in Australia are subject to regular inspections and compliance audits to ensure their vehicles, equipment, and operations meet legal safety standards. State transport authorities carry out these checks and can be scheduled or unannounced.

Whether you run a single tow truck or a fleet, passing these inspections is essential for staying licensed and avoiding costly downtime. Failing an audit can lead to fines, defect notices, or even suspension of your towing accreditation.

This guide explains how tow truck inspections work in Australia, what inspectors look for, how often they occur, and the key steps you can take to ensure you remain compliant.

Types of Tow Truck Inspections in Australia

Tow truck inspections are designed to ensure vehicles meet the Australian Design Rules (ADRs) and the specific requirements of each state’s towing legislation. These checks can happen in several ways, depending on the state or territory where you operate.

1. Scheduled Annual Inspections

Most states require at least one formal inspection every 12 months for all accredited tow trucks.

These inspections are booked in advance at an authorised inspection station or a government transport facility.

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What’s Checked:

• Lighting and electrical systems (including amber beacons)
• Hydraulic and winch operation
• Load restraint equipment (wheel straps, chains)
• Signage and vehicle identification
• Braking systems and tyres
• Fire extinguisher service dates

Example:

In South Australia, tow trucks fall under the National Heavy Vehicle Inspection Scheme (NHVIS), requiring annual inspections at DIT-approved facilities.

In Queensland, accident tow trucks must pass a yearly Certificate of Inspection (COI) conducted by an approved examiner.

2. Random Roadside Compliance Checks

Road transport inspectors and police have the authority to stop tow trucks for on-the-spot inspections.

These checks are standard in metropolitan accident zones and major highways.

What’s Checked:

• Driver’s licence and tow truck accreditation
• Visible safety issues (lights, tyre condition, load security)
• Logbooks and trip records
• High-visibility clothing and PPE compliance

Example:

In NSW, Fair Trading inspectors often conduct surprise roadside checks, particularly on high-volume accident corridors like the M4 and M5.

3. Post-Incident Inspections

If a tow truck is involved in a crash, mechanical fault, or reported safety breach, authorities may require an immediate inspection before it can return to service.

Why It Happens:

• To determine if equipment failure contributed to an incident
• To ensure the vehicle is still roadworthy
• To confirm operator compliance with the Tow Truck Industry Act or equivalent legislation

4. Fleet Audits for Accredited Operators

Large towing companies may undergo compliance audits that review not just the trucks, but also:

• Maintenance schedules
• Staff training records
• Insurance policies
• Chain of Responsibility (CoR) procedures

These audits can take place every 1–3 years, depending on the operator’s risk profile.

Key Items Inspectors Look For

Tow truck inspections are highly structured, and inspectors follow detailed checklists aligned with state regulations and the Australian Design Rules (ADRs). Knowing these requirements in advance can help you avoid costly failures.

1. Vehicle Identification & Licensing

Inspectors confirm that the tow truck:

• Displays a valid tow truck licence plate and operator number
• Shows approved business signage in compliance with size and placement rules
• Has up-to-date registration and insurance documents onboard

Example: 

In NSW, Fair Trading requires all licensed tow trucks to display the operator’s licence number in letters at least 50 mm high on both sides of the vehicle.

2. Safety Equipment

• All safety gear must be present, functional, and within service dates. This includes:
• At least one 2.5 kg fire extinguisher (tagged and tested within the last 12 months)
• Wheel chocks and load restraint straps/chains compliant with AS/NZS 4380
• Reflective triangles and high-visibility vests for operators

According to the NHVAS Safety Report, nearly 18% of tow truck compliance failures involve expired or missing safety equipment.

3. Mechanical Condition

Inspectors assess critical systems to ensure the vehicle is safe to operate:

• Brakes and brake lines
• Steering components
• Suspension and tyres (tread depth ≥ 1.5 mm for light vehicles; ≥ 3 mm for heavy tow trucks)
• Hydraulic systems (no leaks, smooth operation)
• Lights and indicators, including hazard and amber beacons

4. Towing & Recovery Equipment

Tow trucks must carry and maintain all required recovery gear, including:

• Winches and cables in good condition (no fraying or corrosion)
• Two bars and hooks compliant with ADR 62/02
• Under-lift arms and wheel lifts with no excessive wear.

In Victoria, VicRoads inspectors regularly fail vehicles for damaged winch cables or missing safety catches.

5. Operator Records & Compliance Paperwork

For complete compliance, inspectors often review:

• Maintenance logs showing regular servicing
• Operator accreditation cards for all drivers
• Load restraint training certificates
• Trip sheets and job records

Some states, like Queensland, now accept digital records, but operators must ensure they’re accessible during inspections.

How Often Tow Truck Inspections Occur in Each State

Tow truck inspection frequency varies across Australia, but all states require at least one annual safety inspection for licensed vehicles. High-risk operators or those with past compliance issues may face more frequent checks.

• New South Wales (NSW)

Annually for licensed tow trucks; additional random roadside inspections possible.

Authority: NSW Fair Trading & NSW Police.

Heavy tow trucks over 4.5 tonnes must also undergo an Annual Heavy Vehicle Inspection under the Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) scheme.

• Victoria (VIC)

Annual inspection required for accreditation renewal; random roadside audits by VicRoads or Victoria Police.

Authority: VicRoads Tow Truck Licensing Scheme.

Any major mechanical repair must be followed by a compliance recheck before the vehicle returns to service.

• Queensland (QLD)

Annual Certificate of Inspection (COI) required for all tow trucks. High-volume operators may be inspected twice yearly.

Authority: Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR).

In 2023, QLD TMR reported that 15% of tow truck inspections resulted in defect notices, often for brake and lighting issues.

• South Australia (SA)

Annual roadworthiness check plus random audits by SA Police or Department for Infrastructure and Transport.

Authority: SA Department for Infrastructure and Transport.

Any vehicle involved in a significant crash must be reinspected before returning to service.

• Western Australia (WA)

Annual inspection for heavy tow trucks; light tow trucks follow standard vehicle licensing inspections.

Authority: Department of Transport WA.

Regional operators may have to attend central inspection depots, which can require booking.

• Tasmania (TAS)

Annual roadworthy inspection; additional checks after major modifications.

Authority: Transport Tasmania.

Tow trucks used for salvage work in hazardous areas may face safety audits from WorkSafe Tasmania.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT) & Northern Territory (NT)

Annual roadworthy check; occasional random audits.

Authority: Access Canberra (ACT) & Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics (NT).

Tip: Keeping accurate maintenance logs and ensuring safety gear is always ready can help you pass both scheduled and surprise inspections without delays.

Common Reasons Tow Trucks Fail Inspections

While most tow truck operators maintain their vehicles to a safe standard, compliance data from state transport authorities shows that mechanical issues and missing safety equipment are the leading causes of inspection failures.

1. Brake System Defects

Brake system defects are one of the most common defects flagged in QLD, NSW, and VIC. it includes Worn brake pads, fluid leaks, and unbalanced braking performance.

Tow trucks with brake defects are immediately grounded until repairs are made.

2. Faulty or Missing Lights

Common Issues are non-functioning headlights, brake lights, indicator lamps, and amber NSW RMS roadside checks in 2022 found that 12% of heavy tow trucks had at least one faulty light.

3. Tyre Wear and Damage

Signs including bald tyres, sidewall cracks, and mismatched tyre ratings.

Standard: Tyre tread depth must meet the Australian Design Rules (ADR) minimum of 1.5mm for light vehicles and 3mm for heavy tow trucks.

4. Missing or Outdated Safety Equipment

Fire extinguishers without current tags, missing wheel chocks, damaged tie-down straps.

Tip: Keep a monthly checklist for all onboard safety gear, many operators fail audits over easily preventable lapses.

5. Excessive Oil Leaks

Leaks from the engine, gearbox, or hydraulics not only fail inspections but also pose environmental hazards.

Persistent leaks can trigger defect notices under the Australian Vehicle Standards Rules.

6. Poor Signage & Markings

Clear company name, tow truck licence number, and emergency contact number must be displayed.

Faded paint or incorrect font sizes are failures of tow truck inspection

Queensland TMR’s compliance report noted that brake issues, tyre defects, and faulty lights made up over 70% of all tow truck inspection failures.

Key Steps to Stay Compliant

Keep Detailed Maintenance Records:

Document all repairs, servicing, and inspections for at least 12 months, as authorities may request proof during audits.

Conduct Pre-Trip Checks:

Inspect brakes, lights, tyres, hydraulic systems, and safety equipment before every job.

Stay Updated on Regulations:

• Laws differ by state, so regularly review your state transport authority’s guidelines.
• Train Your Drivers:
• Ensure all operators understand safety protocols, load limits, and emergency procedures.

Schedule Internal Audits:

Conduct your compliance checks at least quarterly to identify and address issues early.

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Conclusion

Tow truck inspections and compliance audits are vital safeguards for road safety, operational reliability, and your business reputation. By understanding the inspection types, knowing what authorities look for, and maintaining your vehicle to the required standards, you reduce downtime, avoid costly penalties, and maintain trust with customers.

Compliance is an ongoing process. Keeping detailed maintenance records, running your internal checks, and staying updated on state regulations will keep your tow truck on the road and your licence in good standing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How often are tow truck inspections carried out in Australia?

Frequency varies by state. For example, NSW requires annual inspections for accredited tow trucks, while QLD may conduct random roadside checks in addition to scheduled inspections.

2. Who conducts tow truck compliance audits?

State transport authorities (such as Transport for NSW, QLD TMR, or VIC Roads) carry out both scheduled and unannounced audits to check safety, licensing, and operational compliance.

3. What documents should I have ready for an inspection?

Commonly requested documents include tow truck accreditation, driver’s licence, maintenance logs, and proof of insurance.

4. Can I keep operating if I fail an inspection?

It depends on the severity of the defect. Minor issues may require repairs within a set timeframe, while major safety defects can lead to immediate grounding.

5. How can I prepare for an unannounced audit?

Keep all equipment in working order, ensure your safety gear is up-to-date, and regularly review your compliance checklist. Being inspection-ready at all times is the best defence.

Why Choose CNB Towing

At CNB Towing, we operate with safety and compliance at the core of our service. Our tow trucks are maintained to exceed Australian safety standards, and our drivers are fully trained in both operational and legal requirements. We use a proactive inspection approach, ensuring our fleet is audit-ready at all times, so when you choose us, you’re choosing reliability, safety, and a team that values professionalism above all else.

Whether it’s roadside assistance, accident recovery, or scheduled transport, you can count on CNB Towing to deliver prompt, compliant, and expert towing solutions across South Australia.

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