MPs recommend driverless car trials

The fear of having driverless cars roaming Australian roads could be allayed with government-backed trials to give the public a taste of the technology.

That's the view of a parliamentary committee following an inquiry into social issues arising from the use of land-based automated vehicles.

It has recommended the federal government facilitate and encourage public trials, noting the biggest issue affecting acceptance of the technology is lack of familiarity.

In a report tabled in parliament on Monday, it's also suggested the government stop using the term 'driverless' and instead use 'automated' because it is misleading and could be off-putting.

Another fear many have is the ability for vehicles to be hacked and data compromised.

The committee suggested the government investigate potential vulnerabilities exposed by automation and rights for consumers, manufacturers, insurers and government agencies when it comes to data.

It raised the possibility of establishing a national body or taskforce to co-ordinate Australia's preparation for driverless vehicles.

"People need to feel that automated vehicles are safe, that their privacy is safeguarded and that all legal questions are resolved before there will be general social acceptance of automated vehicles," Nationals MP and chair Michelle Landry said.