There has been frenzied activity about this issue over the last couple of days in social media and forums, especially here in Qld, with the picture of a supposed poster, warning that police in Gympie were pulling over all and sundry, and fining them for using unrated shackles. The poster lists 1st February as the day these new laws supposedly came in.
Its been debunked in a number of circles. DMRT here in Qld posted on their facebook page that no new laws had been brought in. Qld police also stated that nothing has changed.
From DMRT facebook page--
We have had a lot of questions about the shackles used when towing a trailer based on a photo making the rounds on Facebook, so here is a refresher on the requirements:
• If you tow a trailer that does not have breakaway brakes, you have to make sure you use safety chains. This makes sure the trailer stays connected to the vehicle if the coupling breaks or disconnects.
• The safety chains you use must comply with Australian Standard AS4177.4 Caravan and light trailer towing components.
• Shackles that are used do not have to meet any particular Australian Standard, but we strongly recommend you use shackles that meet the Australian Standard AS2741-2002 Shackles or are identifiable as having a suitable design for the trailer and towing vehicle combination.
For more information about how to stay safe when towing, check out the Safe Towing guide
And this link goes to the Safe Towing Guide. Page 7 is the page about shackles.
http://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Safety/Vehicle-standards-and-modifications/Loads-and-towing/Safe-towing.aspxNote, specifically, it is a RECOMMENDATION, not a requirement, nor is it mandatory, that rated shackles be used.
I cannot comment about the situation in Victoria.