Road traffic amendment bill to be tabled in Parliament’s first ordinary session

May 7, 2026 11:06 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Terence Malapa.

A new bill proposing major changes to Vanuatu’s road traffic laws is expected to be introduced during Parliament’s first ordinary session scheduled for May 15.

The Road Traffic (Control) (Amendment) Bill 2026 seeks to amend the existing Road Traffic (Control) Act [CAP 29], addressing what the government describes as long-standing gaps and limitations in the current law that have not been effectively implemented over the years.

According to the explanatory note attached to the bill, the amendments are designed to strengthen enforcement powers for both the Vanuatu Police Force and officers from the Department of Public Works, while also improving road safety and easing traffic congestion.

Among the key proposed changes is a ban on installing additional lighting on vehicles unless specifically required or permitted under the Act or regulations prescribed by the minister. The government says the measure is aimed at reducing accident risks and improving safety for all road users.

The bill also introduces changes to vehicle inspections, allowing any person—not only the vehicle owner—to present a motor vehicle for its annual roadworthiness examination. Vehicle examiners will also be empowered to request police assistance while carrying out their duties.

A new offence provision is proposed for individuals who obstruct, threaten, or use insulting language against police officers or vehicle examiners in the course of their duties. Offenders could face fines of up to VT500,000, imprisonment of up to two years, or both.

One of the most significant changes in the bill is the repeal of Part 5 of the Act, which currently requires compulsory third-party insurance. If passed, vehicle owners will no longer be legally required to purchase third-party insurance, leaving it as an optional decision.

The bill also proposes that applicants for new driver’s licences must be physically present in Vanuatu when applying, although this requirement will not apply to licence renewals.

To tackle growing traffic issues, the amendment seeks to prohibit heavy-duty vehicles from operating on public roads during prescribed peak hours. The Minister responsible for public works will be given authority to determine those hours through regulations.

Drivers who breach the peak-hour restrictions could face fines of up to VT50,000, imprisonment of up to two months, or both.

Additional amendments include provisions for a demerit points system, administrative procedures, and updated definitions under the Act, including changing the definition of “Minister” from the Minister responsible for transport to the Minister responsible for public works.

The government says the reforms are intended to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion affecting workers and schoolchildren, and modernise enforcement under the country’s road traffic laws.

Parliament is scheduled to convene its first ordinary session for 2026 on May 15, where lawmakers are expected to debate several amendment bills across different sectors.