Calls from consumer group One Big Switch for reductions in compulsory third party (CTP) premiums appear to have made little headway, as NSW and Victoria say they have measures in place to help households weather the financial crunch sparked by the virus pandemic.

“The Victorian Government is working through a range of options on how best to support all Victorians in this time of crisis,” a spokesman for the state’s Department of Transport told insuranceNEWS.com.au.

“Right now, short-term registration gives everyone the option to pay their vehicle registration at three or six month intervals, providing more flexibility while helping to relieve financial pressure.”

A spokesman for the NSW Government says the billions of dollars in stimulus measures already allocated are a sign of the state’s commitment to support affected communities and households.

“This includes supporting jobs and business by providing up to $10,000 in small business grants, introducing measures for land tax exemptions to support rent reductions, and bolstering the health system to help fight against COVID-19,” the spokesman told insuranceNEWS.com.au today.

“The NSW Government will continue to look for ways to support the community.”

As reported by insuranceNEWS.com.au last week, One Big Switch launched a petition to push for a temporary cut in car registration fees and CTP premiums, having collected over 5000 signatures so far.

Spokesman Joel Gibson says the reductions should be proportionate to the drop in the cost of the CTP schemes due to less traffic and fewer accidents.

Each state and territory has their own CTP schemes, with premiums collected through vehicle registration fees. The premiums vary according to the respective jurisdictions.

The Insurance Council of Australia says the impact of the pandemic on CTP claims and premiums is a matter for each jurisdiction’s statutory scheme regulators.