Having campaigned heavily alongside RACV for enhanced safety, Nationwide Towing proudly celebrates the Victorian government’s amendment to Road Rule 79A, effective July 1, 2025. Following our earlier advocacy alongside RACV’s efforts, this change protects tow truck operators, roadside assistance workers, and their clients, aligning Victoria with other Australian states.

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Safer Roads for All‍

Road Rule 79A now requires drivers to slow to 40km/h when passing stationary or slow-moving vehicles with flashing lights, including Nationwide Towing’s accident and breakdown tow trucks, roadside assistance units, and incident response vehicles from Peninsula Link, Eastlink, and Transurban. Previously, only police, emergency, enforcement, and VicRoads vehicles were included.

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“This change is a direct result of our persistent advocacy,” said Jackie Pedersen, CEO of Nationwide Group. “Our workers face significant risks daily, and this rule ensures safer conditions for them and the motorists they serve.”

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What Drivers Need to Know‍

Since 2017, Victorian drivers have slowed to 40km/h for emergency vehicles with red, blue, or magenta flashing lights. From July 2025, this extends to tow trucks and roadside assistance vehicles displaying flashing lights. Non-compliance carries fines up to $961. Visit VicRoads for details.

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Victoria Joins National Standards‍

The updated rule aligns Victoria with “Slow Down, Move Over” laws in other states:

• Queensland: Slow down and move over (if safe) for vehicles with flashing lights.
• Western Australia: Reduce to 40km/h near stationary roadside vehicles with flashing lights.
• New South Wales: Slow to 40km/h for vehicles with yellow flashing lights in zones up to 80km/h; in 90km/h+ zones, reduce to a safe speed and yield to pedestrians.
• Tasmania: Slow to 40km/h near vehicles with flashing lights; in 80km/h+ zones, reduce speed safely.
• South Australia: From May 19, 2025, slow to 25km/h for stationary breakdown vehicles with amber lights.

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Stay Informed, Stay Safe‍

Nationwide Towing encourages drivers to stay updated on road safety rules via VicRoads for the latest information.

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Nationwide Towing: Your Trusted Partner‍

Offering 24/7 Australia-wide towing and roadside assistance, Nationwide Towing is your trusted partner for any vehicle or heavy equipment transport. Get reliable, round-the-clock support now.