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With changes to the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) fast approaching, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is urging industry to prepare using the extensive guidance, tools and resources available ahead of the 1 August start date.
NHVR Director of Strategic Policy Paul Daly said the final month before commencement was a critical opportunity for all industry stakeholders to ensure they understand the changes and remain compliant with the amended law.
"The amended HVNL represents the most significant reform to heavy vehicle regulation in over a decade, and the NHVR has been working closely with governments and industry to ensure a smooth transition ahead of commencement,” Mr Daly said.
"Whether you're an operator, a driver or another party in the supply chain, there are resources available to help you understand what's changing and what actions you may need to take before 1 August."
Mr Daly said the priority is ensuring industry is ready for the key reforms, including the introduction of the new Heavy Vehicle Accreditation (HVA) scheme, which will progressively replace the existing National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme (NHVAS).
“Under the amended HVNL, operators participating in the HVA scheme are required to have an effective Safety Management System (SMS) that meets the SMS Standard,” Mr Daly said.
“The NHVR has recently released a suite of new guidance material to support operators in developing, implementing and maintaining an SMS that meets the requirements for General Safety Accreditation (GSA) and Alternative Compliance Accreditation (ACA) under the new scheme.
“The NHVR has also been hosting a series of webinars focused on SMS, supporting small operators preparing to transition into the new accreditation scheme as well as those looking to strengthen their understanding of safety management.
“Webinar recordings and registration links can be found on the NHVR website.”
A HVA Scheme Operator Guideline will also be released soon.
“The guideline explains how the HVA scheme works, the benefits of becoming accredited, and the requirements operators must meet to apply for and maintain accreditation,” Mr Daly said.
“It’s a practical, step-by-step guide that brings together key tools and resources to support operators through the accreditation process.”
Mr Daly said the NHVR would continue releasing additional resources throughout July to support industry ahead of commencement.
“Our website continues to be updated with guidance, fact sheets, templates, videos and practical tools to help industry understand and implement the changes,” he said.
“For example, an updated Written Work Diary information sheet and accompanying video are now available, providing drivers and operators with a practical walkthrough of the changes.
“The NHVR also launched a national HVNL awareness campaign last week, featuring trusted voices from across the heavy vehicle industry to help explain what’s changing, why it matters and where to go for support.
“If you haven’t started preparing yet, now is the time.”
For further information, visit the NHVR website.