Takata: Queensland to issue defect notices for Alpha-equipped cars

The Queensland Government has announced that it will be issuing defect notices to owners of more than 2000 cars fitted with faulty 'alpha' Takata airbags.

The defect notice will give owners 21 days to have their airbags replaced by the vehicle's manufacturer. If owners choose to take no action, their registrations will be cancelled.

The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has welcomed the news, with chief executive, Tony Weber, saying: “we applaud the Palaszczuk Government for acting so decisively on this important public safety issue".

“The industry has been doing its absolute utmost to raise awareness of this serious public safety issue across Australia, urging people to take action and check whether their vehicles’ airbags are affected," Weber continued.

“For 'alpha' Takata airbags, which pose the greatest risk, state and territory registration agencies can greatly assist the industry’s efforts to remove these vehicles from the road for rectification.”

Of the two types of faulty airbags, the 'alpha' units have a higher risk of causing injury or death, particularly when operated in hot and humid conditions.

The Queensland Government’s decision follows from a similar move by the South Australian Government, with Tasmania soon to enact a similar provision.

Car owners can check if their vehicle is affected by visiting the website IsMyAirbagSafe.com.au and entering their license plate and state of registration.

MORE: Takata airbag coverage

MORE: No Takata fix? No registration. It's time.