About AFSACS

In 1991 an investigation into the installation of gas fuel systems into vehicles in Victoria identified the need for a regulatory framework to ensure uniform training and inspection across the industry, and to ensure vehicles with fuel conversions were recorded.

As a result, the Automotive Alternative Fuels Registration Board (AAFRB) was established in 1993 as the industry regulator. 

The role of the AARFB was to ensure:

• technicians carrying out gas conversions and repairs were appropriately trained
• auto workshops in which conversions and repairs were taking place complied with Australian Standards
• converted vehicles and repairs met the safety standards set out in Victoria.

From February 1, 1993, any business engaged in the installation or repair of LPG systems in vehicles in Victoria was required to be registered with the AAFRB.

In 2000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversions came under the control of the AAFRB, followed by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) conversions in 2009.

In 2018, a review of the role of the AAFRB by Victoria’s Commissioner for Better Regulation recommended that the activities and functions of the AAFRB be transitioned to VicRoads to ensure the future sustainability of the industry’s regulation.

On 1 January 2020, the new VicRoads scheme to replace the AAFRB function came into effect. It is known as the Alternative Fuel Systems Assessment and Certification Scheme, or AFSACS.

The purpose of AFSACS is to regulate and support industry involved in the installation, maintenance, repair and removal of gas fuel systems in vehicles.

What does this mean for the industry?

This transfer of responsibility to VicRoads means that AAFRB registration no longer exists. Businesses previously registered with AAFRB are no longer registered or accredited to work on gas fuel systems under their AAFRB registration.

Instead, businesses in Victoria wishing to work on vehicles fitted with gas fuel systems are required to have an AFSACS Agreement with VicRoads in place.

What does this mean for technicians who had AAFRB accreditation?

To work on gas fuel systems in vehicles in Victoria, technicians must now be employed or contracted by an approved AFSACS provider and be approved by VicRoads as an AFSACS Associate Technician. 

Learn more about becoming an AFSACS Associate Technician

What does this mean for owners of vehicles fitted with a gas fuel system?

Vehicle owners must now use a VicRoads-approved AFSACS service provider for installation of gas fuel systems and all ongoing servicing, repair and maintenance.

Learn more here.

• Find an AFSACS provider [PDF 40 Kb]