Tough new 'fit and proper person' tests for WA tow truck operators

Western Australia is tightening its grip on the towing industry with the second phase of new laws taking effect today, designed to ensure operators are of good character and conduct. This move follows a 2022 consultation report that highlighted significant consumer issues, with 85% of respondents reporting bad behavior from tow-truck operators, including intimidation, excessive fees, and illegal driving.

The first stage of reforms, introduced in 2025, targeted predatory behavior at crash sites by banning spotter fees and mandating disclosure of towing and storage charges. The current phase shifts focus to the businesses themselves. Towing companies must now apply for authorization to provide crash towing services.

Michelle Porter, acting director of governance and intelligence at the Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure, explained the rigorous assessment process. Applicants must not have convictions for disqualifying offenses, such as certain firearms and drug offenses. Those who pass this initial hurdle will need to provide national police clearance, and their past behavior will be scrutinized to ensure they possess good repute, character, honesty, and integrity.

“

Provided someone associated with the business hasn't been convicted of one of those disqualifying offences, we'll then go through and request that they provide us with their national police clearance, and we'll be looking at the suitability of their past behaviour to make sure they're of good repute.

Businesses operating in Perth and Peel have until September 1 to obtain their authorization, with deadlines extended to October 1 for the southwest and November 1 for all other regions. Porter acknowledged that some businesses might not meet the new standards, noting that some have already exited the industry. The department has been actively engaging with over 70 businesses to inform them about the upcoming requirements and assist reputable operators in obtaining their authorizations.

To ensure transparency, authorized businesses will be required to use specific "authority to tow" forms after September 1 and display their authorization details. The department will investigate any reports of unauthorized operations, reinforcing the commitment to protecting consumers and improving the integrity of the towing services across Western Australia.

“

We want them to have good character, honesty and integrity to provide those crash towing services out to the community.