DIY Learning Centre | Compliance Information

Regulations are in place for the protection of ourselves, other members of the public and property.

DIY Compliance Info is not an exhaustive record but a summary of the more important areas you SHOULD understand and adhere to if they are relevant to your project. And don’t expect Compliance to be logical – as although Australian Standards and Australian Design Rules are Federal, there are also many examples where individual States have their own Regulations.

DIY Caravans is a member of the Caravan and Trade Industry Association of Queensland, and can offer DIY customers guidance from the Association on compliance matters if you have any specific queries.

Building a compliant DIY project has a number of benefits:

  • You can enjoy it safely with your friends and family
  • Any breakdowns or failures are much less likely
  • Certification by a local engineer is likely to enhance it’s value
  • Having a road worthy done will be a breeze

By drawing on our many years of manufacturing experience, DIY provides summary information that will take you to the appropriate website or organisation to find out all you need to know.  In the Caravan Industry the most relevant areas to understand are:

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

We address all of these areas in detail right here, so use the search facility at the top of the page or browse the archives below to find the information you’re after.

What do all the weight terms mean such as GVM & ATM?

To understand what size of caravan you can tow with your tow vehicle it is important to understand the meanings of the terminology used. The following terms are the most common used when discussing towing possibilities and weight ratings related to small trailers. These are the official ADR definiti

What is the NSW requirement for trailer break-away systems?

The NSW RTA has specific requirements for the break-away brake systems on caravan and trailers with a GTM rating over 2.0 tonne. Vehicle Inspectors Bulletin No 06 details the provision of a device to inform the driver (while in the normal seating position) of the charge-condition of the battery in&h

What documents will I need to register my new Caravan when it’s complete?

DIY suggests you search the Roads Department in your State Government website as the requirements do vary between States. As a guide you are most likely to require: A VIN number. You will need to obtain a 17 digit VIN number from your local Roads Department when you start your project.…

Does my DIY Caravan need to comply with any Regulations or Standards?

Yes. I have divided this into 3 areas – Road Regulations, Gas and Electrics. Road : There is a system of National Standards for vehicles know as ADRs (Australian Design Rules) in addition to a large number of Australian Standards. However the best source of practical info for ‘Building a…