The most important change is the extension of compulsory insurance to all locations, regardless of whether the vehicle is stationary or moving. A motor vehicle must therefore be insured in accordance with WAM even if it is on private property. There is no change to the rules on āvulnerable road usersā, which means that they do not apply on private property.
Vehicles that are on private property and whose use on public roads is not permitted are exempt from compulsory insurance. The following are also exempt from compulsory insurance:
- Motor vehicles that can be propelled mechanically with a maximum design speed of no more than 6 km/h and a maximum mass of no more than 100 kg
(including battery weight).
- Motor vehicles that can be propelled mechanically with a maximum design speed of more than 6 km/h but no more than 25 km/h and a maximum mass of no more than 25 kg (including battery weight).
- Motorised wheelchairs exclusively intended for use by persons with a physical disability.
Note: the exemption from compulsory insurance under WAM does not mean an exemption from potential liability, so cover under Family Civil Liability or Business Operations Civil Liability insurance is still necessary.
Motor vehicles for purposes other than travel such as tractors, bulldozers or forklifts
remain subject to compulsory insurance under WAM for driving risk, regardless of their mass and speed. Business Operations Civil Liability insurance is still required to cover the operating risk. Driving risk insurance may be arranged under Third-Party Vehicle or Business Operations Civil Liability policy, provided the cover complies with WAM.