THE INTER-STATE COMMISSION AND AUSTRALIAN TRANSPORT

The Inter-State Commission (ISC) should be seen as an integral part of the provisions relating to interstate trade and commerce (and transport) in the Australian constitution. Its non-existence has contributed to the ad hoc nature of transport regulation resulting from the independent actions of the states and the Federal government. The Federal government has declined, except in air transport and, to a more limited extent, in sea transport, to utilise such powers as are conferred upon it by the relevant sections of the constitution. The opposition to the re-establishment of the ISC has further impaired application of consistent and efficient transport policies in the interstate field. Much of this opposition has frequently been based on misconceptions about the likely functions an ISC would perform; or based on particular perceptions of its effects on state rights; or otherwise seen to be against the interests of particular groups. A proper assessment of the role of the ISC would recognise the constraints within which it would function. So far as interstate transport is concerned, it would materially assist in replacing six separate standards (not counting the territories) relating to technical characteristics, driver qualifications and safety with one which was federally determined. (TRRL)

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/isbn/0867844906
• Corporate Authors:

  Australian National University

  Centre for Research on Federal Financial Relations
  Acton, Act,   Australia 
• Authors:
  • RICHARDSON, J
  • DOCWRA, G E
  • KOLSEN, H M
• Publication Date: 1984

Media Info

• Features: References;
• Pagination: 27 p.
• Serial:
  • Publication of: Australian National University
  • Issue Number: 34
  • Publisher: Australian National University
  • ISSN: 0313-5241

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Federal government; Legislation; Policy; Regional transportation; Regulations; Standards; Trade; Transportation; Transportation policy
• Geographic Terms: Australia; United States
• ITRD Terms: 8006: Australia; 183: Government (national); 1556: Legislation; 173: Policy; 330: Trade; 1155: Transport
• Subject Areas: Administration and Management; Law; Policy; Transportation (General); I10: Economics and Administration;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00450996
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: ARRB
• ISBN: 0-86784-490-6
• Files: ITRD, TRIS, ATRI
• Created Date: Aug 27 2004 9:57PM