DIY Learning Centre | Compliance Information

Compliance Regulations are in place for the protection of ourselves, other members of the public and property. It is imperative for anyone building a product for use on the public highway to ensure ALL the relevant regulations are strictly complied with.

Compliance is complex – with Australian Standards and Australian Design Rules applying across all States and Territories whilst many other Regulations (such as gas compliance, brake controllers etc) varying between individual States.

DIY Caravans strongly recommends the finished project is certified as compliant by an Approved Engineer. This certificate will assist when you first register the caravan/vehicle at your State Transport Office.

Click here to view an Example-Trailer-Compliance-Cerificate

DIY Caravans is a member of the Caravan and Trade Industry Association of Queensland, and provides information as we receive it in good faith regarding compliance matters to assist customers with their projects. However customers should be aware that Regulations and Standards do change over time and they should check with the relevant authorities when building their project to ensure they comply with the latest requirements. Your engineer will be able to help with this.

Building a fully compliant DIY project has many benefits for the builder:

  • Confidence you can enjoy it safely with your friends and family
  • Reduces the risk of any breakdowns or failures
  • Certification by your local engineer and easy Registration
  • Competitive insurance premiums and good resale value
  • Having a road worthy done will be straightforward

In the Caravan Industry some of the key areas to understand are:

  • Building a small trailer for use on the highway
  • Towing weights – understanding the terms used and what weight you can legally tow
  • Gas installations
  • 240 volt installations
  • Safe towing on the road

What is the RVSA and does it apply to me as a self builder?

 The Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA) is the biggest legislative change the Australian Caravan Industry has seen in over 30 years. For Recreational Vehicle Manufacturers and Importers in Australia, the RVSA is set to completely transform the industry as we know it. Under the RVSA, Manufacturers and
Posted in the Learning Centre under Compliance Information

Revision to Gas Standard AS/NZS 5601.2

 This is a key installation standard for Caravans and Recreational Vehicles and covers LP gas Installations in caravans and boats for non-propulsive purposes. For DIY customers who intend to have ANY LP Gas appliances installed, the law requires this work to be carried out and certified by a licensed
Posted in the Learning Centre under Compliance Information

What are the compliance rules for small trailers used on the highway?

 For customers new to the industry, building a caravan for use on the roads can be daunting. How do you find out what is required in so far as road rules are concerned? There is a system of National Standards for vehicles know as ADRs (Australian Design Rules) in addition…
Posted in the Learning Centre under Compliance Information, Frequently Asked Questions