Australia's peak motoring body, the Australian Automobile Association, today welcomed the Federal Government's announcement it will provide $5 million in funding to the Australasian New Car Assessment Program, to allow for more crash tests and safety ratings of new cars.

AAA Chief Executive, Mike Harris, said the increased testing and rating of new vehicles on the Australian market was good news for consumers and road safety groups.

"AAA and our member motoring clubs promote the ANCAP ratings, and the announcement of Commonwealth funding for ANCAP will allow for more vehicle safety ratings and information to be passed on to our 6.5 million members, their families and all road users," Mr Harris said.

"ANCAP is an original program of AAA and the clubs and we are pleased to see the Federal Government recognising its value in road and vehicle safety.

"But it should be noted that ANCAP's "sister program", the Australian Road Assessment Program (AusRAP) – which assesses road sections for safety and awards a similar star rating based on its ability to protect motorists – has not received any Federal funds for three years.

"The "safe system" approach to road safety – safer drivers in safer vehicles on safer roads – is internationally recognised and forms the basis of Australia's National Road Safety Strategy.  The funding for ANCAP is welcome – however, the other elements of the system must also be addressed.

"We know the Government views road safety as a priority and we would like to see some funds going towards ensuring Australian roads are safe for all those who use them.

"We would also urge the Government to look closely at the recent Henry Tax Review recommendations in support of a road user charging system rather than the current unfair fuel excise regime.

"We encourage the Government to maintain its commitment to road safety by taking up these other important motoring issues in the interests of road users and the Australian economy."