Cootes Transport has demonstrated that it can be a safe, valid and compliant trucking company - enough for it to be allowed to continue operating in New South Wales.

One of Australia’s largest firms had been given 14 days to prove it should not be stripped of its right to operation in NSW, after a series of accidents and disturbing safety breaches.

Cootes showed it intends to change by ordering the decommission of 50 of its oldest trucks, saying it would make improvements to its maintenance scheduling and bring in some new tankers.

The company says it will pay increased attention to its trucks’ brakes, steering and suspension.

Roads Minister Duncan Gay has told NSW Parliament that Cootes’ actions so far were a good sign, but failing to adhere to its promises would still bring punishment.

“The company is aware that if compliance issues should continue to be detected, action will be reinstated to ensure the safety of all road users,” Mr Gay said,

“I am encouraged to know that the company has taken sensible action to address the issues, but, Mr President, it is not a time to be complacent.”

Opposition roads spokesperson Walt Secord is less convinced.

“I hope the Minister has taken the steps to ensure the suspect vehicles from Cootes do not turn up in other jurisdictions and are not registered in other states and territories,” he said.