Performance Based Standards (PBS)

Through the Performance Based Standards (PBS) scheme, heavy vehicle operators have an opportunity to improve productivity, sustainability and safety through innovative and optimised vehicle design.

The basic principle of PBS is to match the right vehicle to the right freight task. PBS vehicles are specifically designed to have a high level of performance and meet strict safety and infrastructure standards to ensure they are suited to the road network.

The benefit of the PBS scheme is greater vehicle safety, increased freight productivity and fewer impacts on road infrastructure.

PBS vehicles fall into one of four levels, and have corresponding levels of road networks they can access.

If you are new to PBS, explore the resources below, starting with the application process and forms. If you need any help, please contact us.

From mid-2026, there will be updates to the PBS Scheme following the implementation of the Heavy Vehicle National Law Amendment Bill 2025. For more information, see HVNL updates for the PBS Scheme.

Application process and forms

It is important to consider what safety and productivity benefits you might achieve through the Performance Based Standards (PBS) scheme. Those benefits should be assessed against the likely costs and risks of submitting an application.

Assessors and Certifiers

PBS Assessors and Certifiers are individuals appointed by the NHVR to carry out certain roles in the PBS vehicle approval process.

Guidelines and rules

The Performance-Based Standards (PBS) scheme operates under a nationally consistent set of rules and guidelines.

Manage a PBS Vehicle Approval

See all available actions to manage your PBS Vehicle Approval.

PBS contacts

PBS contact details for NHVR and jurisdictions.

PBS Review Panel

The PBS Review Panel determines whether or not a vehicle meets the performance-based standards approved by the Transport and Infrastructure Council.

PBS Review Project

The PBS Review Project aims to reduce barriers to participating in the Performance Based Standards (PBS) scheme, give industry greater flexibility, and progress the use of technology to comply with the safety standards.

Quad-axle group vehicle combinations

Semi-trailers, B-doubles and other combinations fitted with quad-axle groups can carry heavy loads more safely on a defined road network.

Resources

Publications and low speed swept path templates

Road and bridge access

Access to roads and bridges under the Performance-Based Standards (PBS) scheme are governed by a national set of rules and guidelines.

The Standards

Vehicles are assessed under the Performance-Based Standards (PBS) scheme according to 16 minimum vehicle performance standards and 4 infrastructure protection standards.

Road Access