Australia expanded its Slow Down, Move Over laws in 2026 to require drivers to reduce speed to 40 km/h (approximately 25 mph) when passing tow trucks and roadside assistance vehicles with flashing lights, extending protections previously limited to police and ambulance, according to Car Explore Australia. Western Australia's Towing Services Act 2024 also banned spotter fees — payments to individuals who report crash locations to tow companies — with penalties up to $45,000 AUD (approximately $30,000 USD), according to the WA Department of Transport. WA's broader reforms include price caps of $485 AUD (~$333 USD) for light vehicle crash tows in the Perth region, mandatory safety standards, and occupational licensing phases rolling out through 2027.
Operator takeaway
The spotter fee ban is a concept US legislators will notice — paying scouts to report crash locations for first-to-scene advantages is common in competitive US markets, and Australia just made it a $30,000 offense.