Issue 101 | 1 December 2020

Message from the CEO

The era of Electronic Work Diaries (EWDs), which begins today, will coincide with the NHVR’s increased focus on fatigue in the lead-up to Christmas 2020. Step Global’s Smart eDriver and Teletrac Navman’s Sentinel system were both approved having met the strict requirements to provide an alternative to the Written Work Diary. In addition to the rollout of EWDs, we will continue our fatigue information campaigns and fatigue will be a focus of our compliance activities in the coming weeks. As we head into the busy Christmas period, many operators are reporting an increased freight load, which will be a boost after a difficult year. Please take the time to ensure your safety systems are robust and drivers are getting the required rest and take care on the road in the lead-up to Christmas. Sal

Record funding call for heavy vehicle safety programs

Submissions are now open for Round 6 of the NHVR Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI). The program, supported by the Federal Government, will provide a record $5.55 million to back submissions from community and industry groups to improve heavy vehicle safety on Australian roads. The NHVR has suggested that submissions address one of three themes – Safer drivers, Safer vehicles and Safer road use – to align with state, territory and Commonwealth road safety plans. Projects must be implementable, commence in the 2021-22 financial year and be completed by 30 June 2024. For more information or to view the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative 2021-22 Submission Guidelines, visit www.nhvr.gov.au/hvsi > Click here to read the full joint statement

Safety survey sector breakdowns released

The NHVR has released additional results from the NHVR Heavy Vehicle Industry Safety Survey 2020, which was conducted earlier this year. The analysis shows the results for different sectors, including Construction and Landscaping, Primary Producers, Sub-contractor drivers, General Freight and Owner Drivers. > For more information on the survey results and industry sector breakdown visit www.nhvr.gov.au/safety-survey

Ag operator’s guide supports key industry reforms

Amendments to brake performance testing as an alternative to existing requirements and providing an alternative to Queensland roadside signage requirements, are two key reforms in the new National Class 1 Agricultural Vehicle and Combination Mass and Dimension Exemption Notice Operator’s Guide. The Guide, which is supported by the Notice and Agricultural Heavy Vehicle Zone Maps, exempts eligible agricultural vehicles and combinations from certain mass and dimension requirements. The NHVR thanks road managers and agricultural groups for undertaking a significant round of consultation to assist the NHVR in developing the Guide, along with maps and Notices. > Click here for more information about the Ag operator's guide

Christmas/New Year travel restrictions

Road managers have advised the NHVR of some disruption to services for certain Class 1 heavy vehicles over the Christmas and New Year period. For vehicles operating under a permit, operators should check the permit conditions to establish whether Christmas or public holiday travel restrictions are listed or are referenced in related notices. All heavy vehicles are subject to conditions of access under their relevant notice or permit. > Click here for the latest information about holiday access

Stay up to date with freight border crossing changes

The NHVR is continuing to coordinate information from state and federal authorities for essential travellers, including anyone moving freight. As borders re-open, stay up to date with the latest information about the ongoing requirements and heavy vehicle-friendly testing sites. > Click here for more information about COVID access

Get in touch

1300 MYNHVR (1300 696 487) www.nhvr.gov.au

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