Victorian Government Slams Biav Claims
The Minister for Ports, Dr Denis Napthine, has supposedly debunked claims made by the Boating Industry Association of Victoria (BIAV) last week relating to planned increases in boating licensing fees and on-water fines.
The BIAV last week said the Department of Transport attempted to pass harsh new Marine Safety Regulations via misleading safety data and a deliberately rushed consultation period. The BIAV claimed that recreational boat licensing fees would rise to $643, while basic on-water fines would increase by up to 500%.
This week Minister Napthine has come back saying that the BIAV’s claims are incorrect and misleading, and accused the BIAV of misinterpreted documents aimed at generating discussion about future licence tests and training.
A ,edia release from the Minister's office said licence fees in Victoria will not change, and fines will not rise by 500%. The release also said the Department of Transport doubled the length of the consultation process, and offered to provide further time for consultation should it be required.
Visit www.transport.vic.gov.au for more info.
Watch this space...