Issue 97 | 9 October 2020

Message from the CEO

This week saw the release of the final report from the Australian Productivity Commission into National Transport Regulatory Reform, which included a review of reforms in the heavy vehicle industry. The report highlighted the significant reform of safety and productivity across the heavy vehicle industry since the introduction of the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) in 2013. While there is much to celebrate, the Productivity Commission also highlighted a number of areas where the law can be improved. It is crucial then, that these recommendations are aligned with the National Transport Commission’s (NTC) ongoing review of the HVNL. While this final report is being considered, the NHVR will continue to work with industry and every level of government to continue to improve our industry. Sal

HVSI projects focus on mental health

World Mental Health Day is commemorated every year on 10 October. Now, more than ever, it’s important to take stock of your mental health as well as check in with those around you. We know that healthy drivers are safer drivers. That’s why the NHVR has supported a number of projects through the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative that focus on improving mental health in the industry. Read about the initiatives

COVID-safe toolbox talk kit released

A COVID-19 toolbox talk kit focused on vehicle, workplace and hand hygiene, wearing a facemask and mental health is part of the NHVR’s latest release of practical industry safety material. NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto said the toolbox talk kit, which included a series of quick guides, videos, checklists and templates, had been added to the NHVR’s Safety Management System suite, at the request of operators. “A recent NHVR Safety Survey showed that while 78 per cent of managers agree that there is an ongoing program of safety promotions and communication, while 52 per cent of drivers and 71 per cent of loaders agreed," Sal said.  “Toolbox talks are one of the easiest and yet most effective ways to share important safety information and share responsibility for everyone’s safety. Read more about the tools

Freight border crossing updates

The NHVR is continuing to coordinate information from state and federal authorities for essential travellers, including anyone moving freight. Stay up to date with information about the ongoing requirements, particularly changes to COVID-19 testing requirements when crossing state borders. The latest news includes: There are several heavy vehicle-friendly testing sites along major interstate freight routes. Click here to see the location of heavy vehicle-friendly testing sites. South Australia has removed the requirement to be tested for COVID-19 or produce results of a COVID-19 test for essential workers that enter from any state other than Victoria.

Have you got another question about coronavirus changes?

A lot may have changed across the heavy vehicle industry over the past few months, but safety still comes first. Check out the latest advice for heavy vehicle operators at www.nhvr.gov.au/coronavirus If you have any questions that we haven’t answered on this page, you can contact us by phone on 1300 MYNHVR (1300 696 487), by email at info@nhvr.gov.au or by sending us a message on Facebook.

NHVR welcomes release of Productivity Commission final report

The NHVR has welcomed the final report from the Australian Productivity Commission into National Regulatory Reform, including the heavy vehicle industry. NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto said the report highlighted the significant reform of safety and productivity across the heavy vehicle industry since the introduction of the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) in 2013. “In particular, the Commissioners have highlighted the on-going improvement to road safety and a reduction in heavy vehicle crashes and progress of harmonisation,” Sal said. Click here to read the full statement

NHVR investigation enters business premises in Queensland and Victoria

Officers from the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) have this week entered multiple business premises in Queensland and Victoria using powers under the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL). The entries were a result of concerns around road safety and compliance with safety duties under the HVNL. Click here to read the full statement

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