Defected for no Mud Flaps

[davistev]

Yesterday my young son was defected (minor - only needs to show up at station with repair done) because his old car did not have mud flaps on the rear. This was in Adelaide, South Australia. I thought this was a joke but sure enough, Regency Park Inspection center requires mud flaps.

Then I noticed that many newer cars do not come with mud flaps - what gives? Indeed, my 2012 Maxima does not have mud flaps - does this mean I was sold a vehicle that is not roadworthy under SA law?

Sure enough, all of SA Police Commodores have mud flaps installed on them.

I am confused, the law seems pretty clear about mud flaps in SA, but many new dealerships sell mud flaps as an option. Can they do this? Or is there something that says that modern plastic rear ends are technically one big mud flap!

Confused in the land of the crows!