The Western Australian Department of Transport has reported a surge in demand for personalised number plates, with 35,000 issued last year—a 20% increase from the previous year. However, not all applications are successful, as 876 combinations were deemed too offensive or inappropriate for public roads.
Each custom plate application is reviewed by a committee that includes representatives from WA Police and private organisations. Banned content includes religious connotations, references to alcohol, drugs, or tobacco, anti-road safety messages, offensive or discriminatory language, and mentions of Commonwealth or State bodies like NAVY, ANZAC, or RAAF.
One controversial plate, 'SPAK ATAK', sparked complaints from the disability community. The plate was approved in 2011 but would not be approved under current guidelines. The current owner, Ian Atkinson, said he was unaware of the offensive nature and is now being asked to surrender the plates.
Jacquie Thomson, CEO of Ability WA, called the plate 'offensive' and criticised its approval. Atkinson noted inconsistencies, as his application for 'HQQNIGAN' was rejected for potentially inciting road rage, while other plates like 'MAD 351' were previously accepted.
