Chris Whiting MP said today that many people in the Bancroft electorate will be closely watching the vehicle immobiliser trial that has started in North Queensland.

The Palaszczuk Government is providing $10 million to support the installation of up to 20,000 engine immobilisers in Townsville, Cairns and Mount Isa.

“Everyone wants to make sure their cars are kept safe from car thieves and many people in our area are very interested to see how this vehicle immobiliser trial works in North Queensland,” said Chris Whiting MP.

“If it works well, I will be pushing to see it rolled out in further areas across the State.

“9,000 subsidy vouchers for immobilisers will be available to residents in Townsville, 8,000 in Cairns and 900 in Mount Isa.

“The Queensland Police Service is now calling all interested engine immobiliser installers to register their interest.

“Up to 20,000 eligible residents in Townsville, Cairns and Mount Isa will be able to apply online for a $500 subsidy voucher from early August 2023.

“Voucher recipients will then present the subsidy voucher to an approved installer to get the immobiliser installed.

“The customer pays any cost difference above $500.

“I will keep local residents updated over the coming months as this trial rolls out across the north of the state.

“In the meantime, I urge local automotive businesses to consider whether they can register as a business supplier to install vehicle immobilisers for the government,” said Chris Whiting MP.

The Queensland Police Service is now calling all interested engine immobiliser installers to register their interest via qtenders.epw.qld.gov.au.