FAQ's

A Model Report is a document outlining how a specific make, model, variant(s), or build range of a vehicle may be manufactured or modified to meet the standards required for its category and age. It specifies the modifications or manufacturing steps necessary to comply with applicable national road vehicle standards. Additionally, it details the verification process for ensuring compliance with the Road Vehicle Standards (Model Reports) Determination 2021.

Model Reports are essential tools under the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018 for supporting the entry of road vehicles onto the Register of Approved Vehicles (RAV). They provide guidance for the modification, manufacturing, and verification processes of certain types of road vehicles to ensure they meet required standards. Model Reports outline how a road vehicle model, or specific variants, must be manufactured or modified to comply with applicable standards, such as the Australian Design Rules (ADRs) and other national standards specified in the Road Vehicle Standards (Model Reports) Determination 2021.

Model Reports are primarily used by Registered Automotive Workshops (RAW) but are also utilized by second-stage manufacturers, high ATM trailer manufacturers, and Authorized Vehicle Verifiers (AVVs). These reports enable the modification, manufacturing, or testing of specific makes, models, and variants of vehicles to meet compliance requirements.

The Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018 (RVSA) and the Road Vehicle Standards Rules 2019 outline the requirements for four categories of vehicles that require a Model Report:

• Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicles (SEVs): Vehicles listed on the SEVs Register that enter the Australian system through the concessional RAV entry pathway (Part 3, Division 3 of the Rules).
• Used Two-Wheeled and Three-Wheeled Vehicles: Used two- and three-wheeled vehicles not listed on the SEVs Register.
• High ATM Trailers: Trailers with an aggregate trailer mass (ATM) exceeding 4.5 tonnes.
• Second Stage Manufacture (SSM) Vehicles: Road vehicles entered on the RAV via the vehicle type approval pathway and undergoing a second stage of manufacture.

RVSA is an approved test facility by the Department of Transport, authorized to perform various ADR testing and verification requirements. Additionally, RVSA has been an ISO 9001:2008 quality-approved company within the automotive industry since 2002.

Each Model Report is designed and developed by specialist engineers with extensive automotive experience, offering clear work instructions to Registered Automotive Workshop (RAW) facilities. These instructions support the processing of imported Special Enthusiast Vehicles (SEVs) to meet compliance standards and assist Authorized Vehicle Verifiers (AVVs) with the verification process.

Each Model Report has a unique document identifier to ensure modifications are performed according to the correct work instructions. This identifier is also referenced in the Vehicle Scope and Verification Checklist used by an AVV to verify compliance.

Note: Model Reports may not cover all variants or build dates of a vehicle make and model. Users should carefully verify that the Model Report selected matches the specific vehicle they intend to manufacture or modify.

Once registered in the RVSA Client Portal, you can access a list of approved Model Reports available for purchase.

Each Model Report has a unique document identifier that corresponds to the RVSA SEVS Ruling. It is the user’s responsibility to ensure the Model Report they intend to purchase matches the exact vehicle they wish to manufacture or modify.

Please note: All purchases are final, and strictly no refunds will be provided.

Discounts may be available when purchasing Model Reports through the RVSA Client Portal, but they apply only if specified at the time of purchase.

No, all Model Reports require full upfront payment at the time of purchase.

No, each Model Report is designated for a specific vehicle. Upon entering the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) in the RVSA Client Portal, the report becomes tied to that VIN only. For security, the VIN appears in the QR codes and watermarks on each page.

No, sharing the Model Report is prohibited, as it breaches conflict-of-interest regulations under Australian law, specifically under the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018 (RVSA) and the Road Vehicle Standards (Model Reports) Determination 2021.

Please click here to download the introduction PDF file.

The Model Report will be available in digital format in your registered Client Portal account. All rights are reserved, including any RVSA logos or trademarks. We strongly recommend printing the Model Report in colour to ensure clarity, as it includes colour photos for reference.

The Model Report fee does not include the actual components required for vehicle modification. You may contact RVSA through the Client Portal or visit the RVSA Parts Store to purchase these components separately at an additional cost.

Only Model Reports approved by the Department will appear on the RVSA Client Portal for purchase.

If an authorized user identifies an error in any Model Report information, they should promptly notify the Model Report approval holder (RVSA) so corrections can be made.

Yes, the Department conducts audits as part of the requirements under the Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA).

Any contravention of the Road Vehicle Standards Act will be treated with utmost seriousness and may result in substantial penalties or the potential revocation of your approval or license. It is crucial to understand the importance of compliance.

By utilizing the RVSA digital Model Reports, you can ensure that all documentation is current, preparing you for potential audits by the Department at any time.

Verify that you have the completed Model Report and all other essential vehicle documents to guarantee compliance, as neglecting these requirements entails significant risk.

Maintaining meticulous records is critical for passing Departmental audits. Using the RVSA digital Model Report platform helps streamline this process.

The Department has launched the Road Vehicle Standards Act Rover System to support compliance and safety of Special Purpose Vehicles (SEVs) on Australian roads. Adhering to Departmental standards is vital for safe and effective business operations.

The completed and signed model report, together with the Consumer Inspection Certificate (CIN), evidence photos / video Clips and any evidence to support your model report must be retained for any department audits/Inspections.

A Model Report is a document setting out how a particular make, model, variant(s) or build range of vehicle may be modified or manufactured to meet the standards that apply to it, given its vehicle category and age to be manufactured or modified to meet applicable national road vehicle standards. It also sets out how the finished vehicle is to be verified for compliance set out in the Road Vehicle Standards (Model Reports) Determination 2021.

Yes, you can reach RVSA via the Client Portal or by email for assistance.

RVSA Model Reports include clear, easy-to-follow work instructions. However, if additional training is required, it can be arranged for an extra fee. For more information, please contact RVSA through the Client Portal or by email…

It is recommended for optimal performance in RVSA digital model report verification to employ an iPad, Android tablet (10″ to 12″), or any screen with a resolution surpassing 1080p.

You should contact the RVSA via email to request an update for the component markings. If the update is straightforward, we will endeavor to make the necessary changes to reflect the new component markings at the earliest opportunity. In the event that the component requires testing (e.g., gas discharge headlight), a sample of the component must be sent to the RVSA for testing. Please note that additional costs may apply in such instances.

Clear photos of the component and marking: Take high-quality, clear photos of the seat belt, focusing on the markings present on it. Ensure that the markings are easily readable and visible in the photos. Include close-up shots that clearly show the details of the markings.

Location of the components: Provide information on the specific location of the components within the vehicle. This helps in accurately identifying and verifying the components during the update process.

By providing clear photos of the component markings, along with the location of the components, you can facilitate the update process for the model report effectively.

Clear photos of the seat belt & buckle and marking:

(Rear Left Seat belt label, Passenger Buckle, Driver Buckle label)

–  Clear photos of the side indicator and marking:

(Right Mirror model, Right Mirror, Left Mirror model, Left Mirror)

– Clear photos of the Head light and marking:

(Headlight model, Headlight close up, Headlight overall view on vehicle)