Category: Technical Working Groups

HVIA Celebrates Final Version Of New Tipper Design Code

10 July 24

On July 1, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator released the final version of its ‘J4’ tipper body design code, marking the conclusion of a lengthy period of industry consultation – and a major win for industry

Collaboration Secures Win on Next-Gen Brake Regs

10 July 24

HVIA is representing the interests of brake system suppliers to smooth regulatory pathway for next-generation braking systems

Department Updates Guidance On Vehicle Recalls

2 July 24

The Department of Infrastructure has produced a suppliers’ guide on applying for and managing “not-reporting” status for voluntary recalls

NHVR Releases Safer Freight Vehicles Standards Guide

26 June 24

The NHVR has released VSG35 which provides guidance on the safety features vehicles are required to have fitted to a heavy vehicle in order to be allowed general access at 2.55m under the Safer Freight Vehicle reforms

HVIA Calls On VIC To Follow NSW Lead On HV Access

26 June 24

HVIA has called on the Victorian Government to follow the lead of NSW and change the basis for heavy vehicle access decision making from preserving assets to optimising the use of those assets by safe, productive and sustainable vehicles

NHVR Release Tipper Code Updates, Rollout Timetable

26 June 24

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator has revealed the staged implementation dates for the revised J4 Tipper Body Design Code

Feedback Sought On ROVER Portal Rebuild

25 June 24

Following the release of the rebuilt ROVER Portal on June 12, the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts is seeking feedback on the priority for improvements to be included in the next version of ROVER

Submission Deadline Extended For HV Standards Review

18 June 24

The National Transport Commission has extended the deadline for feedback into its review of the Heavy Vehicle (Vehicle Standards) National Regulation until Friday, June 21

HVIA Reconnects Trailer Wiring Working Group

12 June 24

HVIA has announced a re-focussed trailer wiring working group in recognition that setting the requirements of the Australian Design Rules to allow safe, sensible, practical, and cost-effective compliance options remains a core function of its technical activities

NHVR Flag Major Changes To Tipper Code Update

5 June 24

This week saw another successful and productive round of review of industry feedback from HVIA, VACC and the CVIAA on the finalisation of the J4 code in Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6

ROVER, RAV Outage This Friday For Portal Rebuild

5 June 24

The ROVER Portal – the online portal for applications and approvals under the Road Vehicle Standards legislation – will be unavailable from 5pm this Friday, June 7 until 9am Wednesday, June 12 to allow for a planned rebuild

HVIA’s May Forum Keeps Members Up To Date

5 June 24

Last week HIVA held its first online member forum for 2024 which provided updates on key advocacy, regulatory, technical and policy issues

Consultation Open On Automated Vehicle Legislation

29 May 24

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communication and the Arts and the National Transport Commission are consulting on a new regulatory framework that will support the safe use of automated vehicles on Australian roads

Call For Feedback On Heavy Vehicle Standards Reg Review

28 May 24

HVIA is seeking feedback from members to guide amendments to the Heavy Vehicle (Vehicle Standards) National Regulation

HVIA Seek Feedback On NSW Heavy Vehicle Access Policy

22 May 24

HVIA has prepared a draft response to the updated Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW) Heavy Vehicle Access Policy – and is seeking feedback from members by next Tuesday May 28 so we can finalise our feedback before the deadline of May 31

Govt Release Transport Net Zero Roadmap and Action Plan

22 May 24

The Department of Infrastructure and Transport has this week released the Transport and Infrastructure Net Zero Consultation Roadmap and Action Plan, one of the six sectoral plans the Australian Government is developing to build a Net Zero 2050 plan

HVIA Release Agenda For First Online Member Meeting

16 May 24

HVIA has released the agenda for its first online member meeting for 2024, to be held Thursday, May 30 from 1:00-3:00pm

HVIA Welcome NHVR’s Stance On Road Access Reform

14 May 24

HVIA has welcomed the NHVR’s latest discussion paper ‘Removing Roadblocks to Reform’, which takes direct aim at the regulatory barriers that continue to hamper access for higher productivity trucks in Australia

NHVR Calls For Fast Reform Of PBS Scheme

14 May 24

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator has released its ‘Removing Roadblocks to Reform’ paper, calling for swift reform of the Performance Based Standards scheme

Applications Open To Become A CLOCS-A Auditor

8 May 24

Applications to become a Construction Logistics and Community Safety Australia auditor are now open

Advantia Release Static Rollover Threshold Calculator

7 May 24

Advantia Transport Consulting has unveiled Payload Pilot, an online tool which calculates the static rollover threshold of any Performance Based Standards and non-PBS vehicle combinations

NSW Shift From Preservation To Optimisation On HV Access

1 May 24

Transport for NSW has unveiled a complete refresh of its heavy vehicle access policy under the NSW Freight Policy Reform Program, in recognition of the need to respond to changing markets, emerging technologies such as LZEVs, and the demands of the increasing freight task

NTC Releases Paper On Regulating Autonomous Vehicles

23 April 24

The National Transport Commission has released a consultation paper outlining the proposed approach to regulating autonomous vehicles, which it expects may begin operating in Australia from 2026

NSW HV Access Policy Shifts Focus To Optimisation

23 April 24

The New South Wales Government has released a new draft NSW Heavy Vehicle Access Policy which has been built around five policy pillars and five policy principles designed to achieve safe, sustainable and productive freight outcomes

AVAS Technology Mandated On Trucks From 2025

19 April 24

The Federal Government has introduced a new design rule that will require new electric, hybrid and hydrogen fuel cell cars, trucks and buses to be fitted with an Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System from November 2025

NHVR Issue Updated Modification Code For Tipper Bodies

10 April 24

After consultation and feedback from industry, the NHVR has issued draft text for Modification Code J4 (Tipper Bodies) in Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 and advised updated implementation timing

New Details Revealed On NSW Axle Mass Limit Increases

3 April 24

HVIA met this week with Transport for New South Wales to get an update on the low- and zero-emission axle mass increase scheme in that state

HVIA Seek Changes To Powered Trailer Regulations

27 March 24

HVIA is seeking to resolve outstanding regulatory issues necessary to enable widespread use of powered axles in heavy vehicle combination

Member Update: LZEV Axle Mass Limit Increases

27 March 24

HVIA is continuing its important advocacy work with the Australian states that have announced axle mass limit increases for next-generation low and zero emission heavy vehicles in trials and other initiatives

Advantia Project Aims To Streamline PBS Accessibility

20 March 24

HVIA member Advantia Transport Consulting is seeking industry feedback on a project to advance Performance Based Standards vehicle accessibility

Telematics Rules Set To Change In QLD, NSW In June

19 March 24

Major changes are looming for transport operators who rely on telematics devices for access or productivity benefits

NTC Seeks Further Consultation On Review Of DG Code

11 March 24

The National Transport Commission has launched a new round of consultation on the comprehensive review of the Australian Code for the transport of dangerous goods by road and rail

First State Meetings Completed + Changes Announced!

5 March 24

Last week saw completion of the Queensland and WA state meetings, with NSW and Victoria held the week prior. In a sure sign 2024 has had a flying start, new records for attendance were achieved by NSW and WA, and VIC and QLD meetings were also strongly supported

HVs More Often Involved In Level Crossing Collisions

5 March 24

A study has found heavy vehicles are more frequently involved in level crossing collisions than cars and other light vehicles

World First Hazard Perception Test For HV Drivers

21 February 24

Austroads has commissioned Professor Sharon Newnam from the Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety to lead a new project to design, develop, and deliver a heavy vehicle hazard perception test

QLD On-Road Enforcement Set To Transition to NHVR

16 February 24

Heavy vehicle on-roads enforcement activity will transition from the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator on April 20, 2024

NTC Seeks Industry Feedback On HVNL Penalties Review

14 February 24

The NTC is seeking input from key industry stakeholders to identify offences under HVNL for priority assessment of infringement classification and associated penalty amounts and demerit points

New NHVR Loading Guides Available Online

14 February 24

The NHVR is progressively releasing a series of loading guides for heavy vehicles on its website

HVIA To Attend Vehicle Standards Consultative Forum

14 February 24

HVIA Chief Technical Officer Adam Ritzinger will be attending the next Vehicle Standards Consultative Forum in Canberra in March

New RAV Site Incorporates Safer Freight Vehicles

14 February 24

The NHVR has launched a new RAV website that features improved user-friendliness and also includes Safer Freight Vehicle information on relevant approval

Sneak Peek: ROADBOSS Rides With Titans Of Timber

7 February 24

In the second issue of ROADBOSS Magazine Cobey Bartels hitches a ride in a high-productivity Fennell Forestry AB-triple for a scenic two-day logging expedition across the Green Triangle, travelling from forestry to mill carting some of Australia’s finest timber

HVIA Releases Agenda For First State Committee Meetings

7 February 24

The HVIA has released the agenda for the next round of state committee meetings in February – register now!

New Standards To Accelerate EV + HFCEV Safety

31 January 24

New standards bolstering safety requirements for new electric and hydrogen-fuelled vehicles in Australia have been put in place by the Australian Government

Landmark COR Case A Warning To Transport Bosses

31 January 24

Last week’s sentencing of a transport manager under Heavy Vehicle National Law has been described as “ground-breaking” by experts who warn it sends a strong message to executives across the country

Renewable Hydrogen Hub Unveiled For North Queensland

31 January 24

The Federal Government has announced investment of up to $70 million to develop the Townsville Region Hydrogen Hub in North Queensland which will produce green hydrogen for use at a local critical mineral processing plant and in zero-emissions road freight transport

Inquiries Under Way on EV Transition, Renewable Diesel

30 January 24

Two reviews are under way aimed at promoting transport decarbonisation: one focused on transition to electric vehicles and the other on development of a fuel quality standard for renewable diesel

National Road Safety Action Grants Program Extended

30 January 24

The Australian Government has extended the National Road Safety Grants Program as part of its commitment to ‘Vision Zero’, which has a goal of no deaths or serious injuries on public roads by 2050

Qld Rejects Plan To Extend Electrical Licensing To EV’s

23 January 24

The Queensland Government has rejected a proposal to extend the electrical licensing framework to cover electric vehicle

HVIA Raise Alarm On PBS Notice Interpretation Change

20 December 23

HVIA has recently become aware of a situation where some operators have been denied network access for specific truck/trailer combinations, despite meeting all published legal requirements

NHVR Extends Transitional Arrangements For VSB6

20 December 23

The NHVR has extended the current transitional arrangements allowing authorised examiners and signatories to certify tipper bodies under the old VSB6 v3.1 Section J requirements until July 1, 2024

NHVR Resolves Tow Truck Length Compliance Issue

19 December 23

The NHVR has resolved an issue that emerged earlier this year where a tow truck operator was issued with a non-compliance notice for exceeding dimensional limits

NTC Seeks Further Feedback On Proposed HVNL Reforms

15 December 23

NTC launches survey targeted at heavy vehicle operators to help inform key proposed policy changes to the Heavy Vehicle National Law

HVNL Reform Timetable Extended As NTC Seeks More Input

13 December 23

The timetable for drafting of the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) legislative reforms has been extended with the package now due to go to Ministers in December 2024

Transport NSW Introduces New Conditions For PBS Vehicles

13 December 23

Transport for NSW has introduced new network conditions for Performance Based Standards vehicles in the state

NHVR To Release New National Network Map

13 December 23

The NHVR has announced it will release a new National Network Map designed to provide a single central location to access information on approved routes for more than 1,000 heavy vehicle configurations across multiple jurisdictions

Safety Initiative Aims To Put A Stop To ‘Spilt Milk’

13 December 23

Insurer NTI delivers Australia’s first driver safety campaign aimed at reducing the high rate of tanker rollovers in the dairy industry

Plan To Mandate Acoustic Vehicle Alert Systems From 2025

6 December 23

Draft ADR proposes to mandate Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems for light vehicles from January 2025 and heavy vehicles from November 2025

HVIA Calls For Delay To Implementation Of VSB6 Update

6 December 23

The HVIA has called for the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator to extend the implementation date of the new version of VSB6 by an additional three months

NHVR Launches Pavement Impact Comparison Calculator

6 December 23

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator has launched the interactive Pavement Impact Comparison Calculator to enable road managers to understand the long-term pavement effects of freight activity on roads

NVHR Webinars To Provide Overview Of Freight PASS Tool

29 November 23

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator is hosting a series of webinars which will provide an overview of its recently launched interactive tool, Freight PASS

Minister Signs ADRs To Support Zero Emissions Vehicles

29 November 23

Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Carol Brown, has signed three new Australian Design Rules on zero emission vehicle safety

HVIA Call For Separation Of Euro VI, General Mass Increases

22 November 23

HVIA calls for separate implementation of Euro VI and productivity increases under proposed HVNL reforms in its response to National Transport Commission proposal

Braking Best: A Guide To Brake Servicing And Maintenance

21 November 23

HVIA tech guru Adam Ritzinger’s guide to in-service brake inspections, test methods, and equipment

HVIA Request Removal Of ‘Tipper Stability’ Calculation

15 November 23

HVIA has formally requested that the National Heavy Vehicle Regulatory remove the contentious ‘tipper stability’ calculation from the upcoming VSB6 update.

QLD Plan To Abolish HV Rego Assessment Scheme

15 November 23

The Queensland Government is seeking feedback on plans to abolish the Heavy Vehicle Registration Assessment Scheme.

Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems Mandate Proposed

8 November 23

The Federal Department of Infrastructure and Transport has raised the prospect of mandating tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS)

HVIA State Committee Meetings Wrap-Up For 2023

8 November 23

The final round of HVIA State Committee Meetings for 2023 covered key regulatory, policy, and technical changes that impact members and the wider industry

Projects To Boost Heavy Vehicle Safety And Productivity

8 November 23

The Federal Government has committed $18 million in funding towards new projects aimed at improving heavy vehicle safety and productivity on regional roads

HVIA Calls For Consistency On Mass Limit Increases

1 November 23

HVIA calls for national consistency across the scope, details, and administration of separate state-based higher axle mass limit schemes

Truck Width, Mass Changes Dominate HVIA Meetings

25 October 23

HVIA’s October State Committee Meetings are under way and generating considerable discussion around a recent changes to truck width and axle mass limits.

HVIA Reveals Rigids Eligible For SA Axle Mass Trial

18 October 23

HVIA reveals further details of the South Australian low and zero emission heavy vehicle trial scheme

NHVR Launch Tool To Compare Heavy Vehicle Performance

18 October 23

National Heavy Vehicle Regulator this week launched a new interactive tool to help industry and road managers make more informed safety, productivity and sustainability decisions about the benefits of heavy vehicle combinations on the road network

HVIA Releases State Committee Meetings Agenda

11 October 23

HVIA’s final round of state committee meetings will be held across the major capital cities in late October – and the recent regulatory announcements that have caused a stir are front and centre.

NSW Announces Higher Mass Limits For ZEV Trial

4 October 23

Transport for NSW this week released its Towards Net Zero Emissions Freight Policy, outlining a commitment to reduce emissions in the transport sector, including a trial of higher-mass zero emissions heavy vehicles on NSW roads.

Announcements Accelerate Freight Decarbonisation

4 October 23

The past five days have brought several game-changing announcements that will accelerate the decarbonisation of trucking in Australia.

Government Announces Historic Truck Width Increase

28 September 23

Federal Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Carol Brown today announced the Federal Government’s landmark decision to increase the overall width limit for trucks in Australia to 2.55 metres

HVIA Flags Huge Agenda For Committee Meetings

27 September 23

Truck width and mass increases, electromobility, technical issues, and HVIA’s new magazine and ZEV show all on packed agenda for upcoming state committee meetings.

White Paper Outlines Measures To Build Future Workforce

27 September 23

An employment white paper released this week by Federal Treasury details ambitious measures to build Australia’s future workforce, including those required to enable the transport industry’s transition to net-zero.

HVIA Puts Tag Trailer Mass Back On The Reform Agenda

20 September 23

HVIA is hopeful long-standing issues related to tag trailer mass will be resolved over the coming year

HVIA Attends First Vehicle Standards Committee Meeting

20 September 23

HVIA meets with Federal Department of Infrastructure to discuss vehicle standards issues, including safety and environmental standards for heavy vehicles

Government Aims To Address Inadequate Road Safety Data

20 September 23

Government working towards National Road Safety Data Collection and Reporting Framework and minimum national dataset

NHVR release local government road managers’ info hub

5 September 23

National Heavy Vehicle Regulator releases new online information hub to support local government and road managers

Department reschedules ROVER webinar for this Friday

5 September 23

The Federal Department of Infrastructure and Transport has rescheduled its webinar on upcoming changes to the functionality of the Road Vehicle Regulator (ROVER) administrative system for the Road Vehicle Standards Act

Next round of ROVER updates due mid-September

22 August 23

The Federal Department of Infrastructure has advised that the next updates to the ROVER (Road Vehicle Regulator) system are planned for Friday, September 8 to Tuesday, September 12.

NHVR Responds Quickly to PBS Portal Concerns

16 August 23

The NHVR has stepped in to alleviate concerns that changes to the design approvals process on the regulator's PBS Portal will increase costs to industry.

NHVR supports VSB6 extension

8 August 23

The NHVR has agreed to push back the implementation of Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 (VSB6) Code J4 with transitional arrangements now extended to 1 February 2024.

 J4 Tipper Code and AVE scheme need NHVR intervention

2 August 23

HVIA has written to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator to plead for a postponement of VSB6 updates including the new J4 Tipper Code.

Department finalises Recall Rectification Benchmarks

2 August 23

Now that the implementation of the Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA) is complete the Department of Infrastructure has published recall rectification benchmarks which are designed to promote a shared understanding of the Department's expectations regarding recall performance.

Call for action on NHVR PBS Portal issues answered

27 July 23

On the eve of the round of HVIA State Committee meetings this month, members raised concerns regarding a recent and unannounced change to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s PBS Portal.

RVSA Compliance and Enforcement Strategy

26 July 23

The Vehicle Safety Operations Branch of the Department of Infrastructure has released the Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA) Compliance and Enforcement Strategy 2023-26.

HVIA supports members navigating exit of 3G

12 July 23

HVIA has been working with members involved in vehicle telematics, communications, and data ahead of the Australia-wide 3G network shutdown in mid-2024.

First Report on Coupling Strength Project

12 July 23

For the last year, HVIA has been part of a collaborative investigation into dynamic loads on couplings fitted to heavy High Productivity Freight Vehicles (HPFV) and PBS combinations.

RVSA transition complete – where to next?

5 July 23

We are now into the new financial year and the transition process from the Motor Vehicle Standards Act to the Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA) is now complete; all vehicles entering the Australian Market must comply with the RVSA rules from now on.

HVIA welcomes the simplification of ROVER applications

28 June 23

The Department of Infrastructure has advised that it will remove the need for applicants to attach an extract or complete copy of UN approval documents to their applications.

Updated mechanical couplings standards for 2023

28 June 23

Standards Australia has published updated versions of mechanical couplings standards (AS/NZS 4968) for 2023.

NHVR rejects call for VSB6 implementation delay

21 June 23

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator has rejected HVIA's calls for a delay to the implementation of updates to Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 (VSB6), scheduled to commence on 1st July.

HVIA offers further support for members impacted by the VSB6 changes

6 June 23

In April this year, the NHVR published updates to Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 (VSB6) and announced a commencement date of 1st July 2023.

HVIA warns against jumping the gun on trailer width

1 June 23

The NHVR’s discussion paper, released today, explores options for implementing the Safer Freight Vehicle (SFV) reforms, which are yet to be finalised at the Federal level.

Telematics seminars video 

31 May 23

The "What’s New in Telematics" seminar presented by Transport Certification Australia (TCA) and HVIA at the Brisbane Truck Show is now available to watch online.

Warning – One Month to Go – MVSA end date in sight

26 May 23

The Department of Infrastructure has recently circulated the latest guidance material as the end of the transition from the Motor Vehicle Standards Act (MVSA) to the Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA) transition approached.

New guidance for PBS access at greater masses

3 May 23

The NHVR’s new guidance replaces previously published advice relating to Tier 2 and 3 assessments and guides operators through the process of applying for a PBS permit under the Tier 2/3 bridge assessment option.

VSB6 v3.2 update

18 April 23

Following last week’s Talk the Torque article on the implementation date for the new version of VSB6, HVIA received important feedback from members regarding the new ‘J4’ modification code for tipper bodies.

Low-Speed Swept Path and Tail Swing options paper

17 April 23

As part of an on-going review of the PBS standards that kicked off in 2019, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator has released a detailed options paper that explores possible improvements to the PBS low speed turning performance standard, and its related performance measures.

NHVR publishes VSB6 v 3.2 and commencement date

12 April 23

VSB6 Version 3.2 includes new information on tipper body design, tow truck design and box or top hat chassis section modifications, plus updates to existing codes.,

ROVER – outage reminder and new guidance released

12 April 23

Members are reminded that ROVER and the Register of Approved Vehicles (RAV) will be unavailable from 4 pm AEST on Friday 14 April until 9 am AEST on Tuesday 18 April 2023 while the Release 8B upgrade takes place.

New regulatory advice for safety technologies and telematics

12 April 23

The NHVR has released guidance on best-practice safety technologies and telematics for CoR parties to meet primary duty obligations under the HVNL.

HPFV network updates from Freight Victoria

5 April 23

Freight Victoria staff delivered a valuable update on Victoria’s High Productivity Freight Vehicle (HPFV) policy and networks for HVIA members this week.

Takeaways from the first round

29 March 23

Several recurring viewpoints were expressed by HVIA members at State Committee meetings held in WA, QLD, NSW, and VIC this month.

Amendments to Lighting ADRs

22 March 23

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts has amended a wide range of Australian Design Rules related to vehicle lighting. 

HVIA and NHVR techsperts tackling policy challenges

15 March 23

Newly-minted Chief Technical Officer, Adam Ritzinger, and Manager of Member Engagement, Harrison Hunkin are on the case for HVIA members.

Proposed Recall Rectification Targets

1 March 23

The Department of Infrastructure has proposed benchmarks for recall rectification to provide “suggested timeframes for industry to progress and complete voluntary recalls.”

HVIA cautiously optimistic towards PBS 2.0

22 February 23

The PBS scheme should be better used as a mechanism for promoting the uptake of safer high-productivity vehicles according to HVIA.

The comments form part of HVIA’s submission responding to the NHVR’s Performance Based Standards (PBS) 2.0 discussion paper, and follow extensive consultation with HVIA members and stakeholders.

ADR now in place for Euro VI and some EV’s

21 February 23

ADR 80/04 adopting Euro VI and equivalent standards for heavy vehicles has now been signed and can now be accessed on the Federal Register of Legislation. 

HVIA draft submission – PBS 2.0 Discussion Paper

1 February 23

HVIA has circulated its draft submission on the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s PBS 2.0 Discussion Paper for review by members.

It’s not too late to have your say on PBS 2.0

18 January 23

HVIA’s Greg Forbes says the level of member engagement on the NHVR's PBS 2.0 discussion paper shows how important the scheme is to the heavy vehicle industry.

Truck and dog notice forum success

23 November 22

The Class 3 Truck and Dog Notice created a stir on its release but has gone on to be the catalyst for great industry-regulator collaboration.

NHVR releases PBS version 2 Discussion Paper

23 November 22

The NHVR has proposed a series of significant reforms in its long-awaited discussion paper on PBS 2.0.

Expanded tyre choice brings greater flexibility to PBS operators

15 November 22

From 1 December 2022, Performance Based Standards (PBS) vehicles will be able to use a broader range of tyres, enabling the PBS scheme to better support and promote the next generation of smarter, safer and more productive vehicles.

Webinar: the NHVR’s Class 3 truck and dog notice

9 November 22

HVIA and the NHVR have agreed that HVIA will organise a Webinar that will allow the allow members to engage with the NHVR and seek clarity on what can and can’t be done under the existing Class 3 truck and dog notice.

ROVER Release 8A and RAV outage

25 October 22

UPDATED - The ROVER outage is now from 4 pm AEDT on Thursday 3 November to 9 am AEDT on Tuesday 8 November 2022. The RAV will be unavailable 12 pm AEDT on Thursday 3 November to 9 am AEDT on Tuesday 8 November 2022.

Albanese Government confirms new emissions standards for trucks and buses

13 October 22

HVIA has congratulated the Albanese Government on today’s announcement confirming the introduction of ADR80/04 – the Australian standard that brings our emissions standards in line with Euro 6. 

The long overdue next step to keep pace with world emissions standards

11 October 22

Believe it or not we live in a first world country, not just a distant colonial outpost. Why then has it taken an additional eight years for our engine emissions regulations to catch up with Europe?

Removing red tape on PBS applications

11 October 22

The NHVR will be introducing changes to the Performance Based Standards (PBS) scheme Vehicle Approval (VA) document to reduce administrative burden for industry and provide a better customer experience.

Long slow path to PBS reform finally taking shape

7 September 22

It has been a long time coming, but the necessary pieces of the puzzle for the future of PBS are finally coming together.

Grattan Truck Report misses the easy wins and ignores key obstacles

31 August 22

The Grattan Institute’s new “Grattan Truck Plan”has made headlines this week with its controversial calls for city-wide bans on pre-2003 diesel engines, but misses out on easier opportunities to lower heavy vehicle emissions.

Release of Revised AS2213.1 covering automatic type couplings

17 August 22

Standards Australia has released for public comment AS 2213.1 that covers the selection and marking of pin type couplings, which are often referred to as “automatic couplings”.

Bull bars for light vehicles under review

9 August 22

The current standard covering bull bars for light vehicles (AS 4876.1-2002) is being assessed to determine its future status.

Rover outage next week for implementation of upgrade

6 July 22

The Department of Infrastructure has announced that ROVER will be unavailable from 4 pm AEST Wednesday 13 July to Monday 18 July to allow for the implementation of Release 10.

New PBS Notice is progress – but not the end goal

6 July 22

A new Performance Based Standards (PBS) class 2 notice will introduce more nationally consistent conditions for road trains, supporting more seamless cross-border access and dramatically reducing requirements for permits.

Coupling evaluation project progresses

5 July 22

The industry's collaborative coupling evaluation project is gathering pace now that significant challenges have been overcome, thanks to contributions from several HVIA members.

Changes to PBS vehicle approval documents

22 June 22

The NHVR has released two discussion papers canvasing possible changes to vehicle approval documents issued under the PBS scheme.

Is cloning ROVER the answer to VTA delays?

7 June 22

During the latest round of State committees one of the Road Vehicles Standards Act problems  HVIA has been discussing with members has been the problems caused by slow processing of VTA’s and variations.

Reversing Technologies Consultation RIS

13 April 22

A consultation Regulation Impact Statement (RIS) examining the case for introducing a new mandatory standard for the installation of reversing technologies to new vehicles has been released.

RVS transition period extended

6 April 22

The Road Vehicle Standards (RVS) transitional period has been extended by 12 months until 30 June 2023, the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications has advised.

HVIA welcomes Advanced Emergency Braking ADR’s

9 March 22

HVIA has welcomed two new Australian Design Rules (ADR) mandating Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) on heavy vehicles.

Blowout in heavy vehicle access permits at crisis point

9 March 22

Hundreds of PBS heavy vehicles are parked up, sitting idle, instead of working to keep Australia moving - all because of behind-the-scenes bureaucratic bungling.

RVSA Industry Webinar #10 presentations

16 February 22

Presentations from the RVSA webinar facilitated by the Department of Infrastructure on Wednesday 2 February 2022 are available for download.

Industry Investigates Coupling Strength

2 February 22

A new project investigating dynamic loads on couplings has been funded by the Commonwealth Government's Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative to fill a gap in knowledge and provide evidence to update relevant Standards and Rules.

New RVSA guidance videos now available

15 December 21

The Department of Infrastructure has released a video of their webinar covering Low ATM Trailers. Presentation slides are also available.

Truck and trailer width review a long way from resolved

9 December 21

HVIA has welcomed news that proposed amendments to truck and trailer width will be circulated for comment and further explorations into their productivity and cost impact.

The proposed amendments are the result of the Safer Freight Vehicles reforms, a process that was begun by the national Transport Commission in March of this year.

HVIA State Committee online special recording – Dec 2021

7 December 21

This is a special recording of the December 2021 HVIA State Committee meeting as the live stream experienced technical difficulties.

ABN is key to resolving VTA opt-in rejections

3 November 21

Vehicle type approval "opt-in" applications are now being processed more efficiently thanks to the use of applicants' ABN.

PBS notice takes a step in the right direction

29 October 21

The heavy vehicle industry has welcomed the NHVR’s announcement of a new gazette notice that reduces reliance on permits for some Performance Based Standards (PBS) vehicles.

New PBS access notice provides permit-free travel

27 October 21

A new notice delivered by the NHVR will give eligible Performance Based Standards (PBS) vehicles immediate network access when they receive a vehicle approval with a Tier 1 bridge assessment.

RVSA videos, webinars and issues portal

27 October 21

The Department of Infrastructure has created a YouTube channel with videos regarding the RVSA. The first one covers the opt-in process for Vehicle Type Approvals.

Department urges early VTA opt-ins

13 October 21

While VTA opt-ins are technically available until 31 December, the Department of Infrastructure is urging vehicle manufacturers to get their opt-in submissions in before 1 December to ensure they are processed in time.

NTC lays out consultation roadmap for HVNL

13 October 21

The National Transport Commission has laid out the road map for the consultation process on the Heavy Vehicle National Law with fatigue management the first cab off the rank.

Release of Consultation Draft: VSB6 Section J4 – Tipper Bodies

22 September 21

HVIA is facilitating a series of web meetings for members to discuss the draft VSB 6 Section J4 covering Tipper Bodies.

RVSA FAQ

25 August 21

The Department of Infrastructure is hosting fortnightly webinars with key industry peak body representatives to address queries about the operation of the Road Vehicle Standards legislation now it has been fully implemented.

ROVER how-to videos other important RVSA and RAV info

4 August 21

The Department of Infrastructure has just released new guidance material for the RVSA including determinations, three ROVER “how to” videos, three new guides and information on assessment times for various transactions.

Industry Celebrates as PBS Tyre Changes Given Green Light

2 August 21

Trailer manufacturers, tyre manufacturers and suppliers, heavy vehicle operators and PBS assessors will all win once the decision by the Infrastructure and Transport Ministers Meeting (ITMM) to use generic tyre data in PBS assessments is fully implemented.

Clarification on vehicle marking requirements for Heavy Trailers under RVSA

28 July 21

HVIA has obtained a quick response from the Department following an anomaly spotted by an HVIA member.

RVSA in place but work still required

6 July 21

The Road Vehicle Standards Act is now in force and will increasingly play a large role in the activities of many HVIA members.

ROVER has been let off the leash

1 July 21

The Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA) has gone live this week following a much delayed, somewhat controversial development, and serious concerns about its ambitious rollout.

Updated VTA guide in preparation for RVSA go-live

30 June 21

The Department of infrastructure has updated the Guide to Vehicle Type Approvals in preparation for the RVSA going live tomorrow.

Axle mass limits key to any changes on vehicle width

23 June 21

HVIA has settled on its position on proposed changes to Australian Design Rules governing vehicle width.

Get in your CTAs and plan for your VTAs

23 June 21

With the Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA) going live next week, HVIA's Greg Forbes urges members to ensure they submit draft Component Type Approval applications by Friday.

HVIA State Committees say ‘yes’ to truck widths and ‘no’ to trailer widths

9 June 21

HVIA State Committees are considering proposed changes to Australian Design Rules (ADR) governing vehicle width.

Release of ADR Amendment Omnibus

9 June 21

In early 2020, the Department of Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development indicated that they intended to alter the process by which minor amendments to ADR’s were to be carried out.

ROVER system outage

9 June 21

Draft CTA applications will be deleted when ROVER is offline from COB 25th June to prepare the system for full Road Vehicle Standards Act commencement on 1 July.

Could changes to ADR’s see an uptake of safer heavy vehicles?

28 April 21

Yesterday the Department of Infrastructure released a discussion paper outlining possible changes to ADRs to enhance the uptake of safety features on heavy vehicles.

NHVR’s pledge to fix PBS

23 April 21

HVIA's urgent call to action for the NHVR to fix PBS approval timelines has seen a swift response.

NHVR response on PBS application processing times

22 April 21

The following communique was issued by NHVR Vehicle Safety & Performance Director Peter Austin on 22 April, responding to HVIA's earlier plea to solve the PBS approvals crisis.

RVSA Sessions Issue Summary

21 April 21

Last week HVIA ran two in-person sessions in Melbourne covering Component related and Vehicle related issues and repeated these sessions in online sessions run out of Brisbane on 15 April.

PBS Delays Hurting Industry

13 April 21

HVIA has today issued an urgent and passionate plea to the National Heavy Vehicle Industry Regulator to solve the Performance Based Standards approvals crisis.

Responsibilities and exceptions under Queensland Engineers Act

7 April 21

The Board of Professional Engineers of Queensland (BPEQ) recently issued a reminder of the responsibilities of a Corporation under the Queensland Professional Engineers (PE) Act 2002.

Implementation team lined up to address RVSA

17 March 21

The Department of Infrastructure has released two new guidance documents the Guide to Vehicle Type Approval Opt-in Arrangements and the Guide to Vehicle Type Approvals.

The countdown is on – RVSA Checklists

10 March 21

HVIA has prepared guidance material in preparation for the introduction of the Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA) on 1 July 2021.

Vehicle Standards Bulletin 1 (VSB1) – light trailers

3 March 21

The VSB1 review includes important clarifications and expanded information on lighting and how to certify and identify imported trailers amongst other items.

Pieces falling into place for RVSA implementation

3 March 21

HVIA's review of the latest releases in the Road Vehicles Standards Act (RVSA) shows that the transition is coming together, however there are still critical procedural areas yet to be unveiled.

Have you checked the boxes for the RVSA implementation?

24 February 21

The Road Vehicle Standards Act goes live in 4 months; manufacturers of vehicles and suppliers of parts need to make sure they are prepared.

Full advocacy strategies on the table at HVIA State Committee meetings

17 February 21

Agendas for 2021's first round of HVIA State Committee meetings are now available with a broad range of issues and information on the table.

NHVR says use Suzi on the semi but rubber on Dollys, Dogs or Pigs

11 February 21

The NHVR has issued a Safety Bulletin on the use of coiled air hoses (“Suzi” coils). The issuing of the safety bulletin has been prompted by several incidents where trailers have disconnected, and the air hoses have remained attached.

Updates to Vehicle Standards Guide 2

10 February 21

The NHVR has updated Vehicle Standards Guide 2 to outline some changes to the Heavy Vehicle National Law and Regulations that will come into effect from 22 February.

PBS standard for Directional Stability Under Braking

3 February 21

The NHVR has released a discussion paper on the transition arrangements for implementing the new deemed to comply provisions for the PBS standard related to Directional Stability Under Braking.

Transitioning PBS to the NHVR Portal

3 February 21

The NHVR are moving all regulator services and functions into a common platform - providing one location for regulator service delivery.

Two new NHVR Vehicle Standards Guides

27 January 21

The NHVR has published Vehicle Standards Guides covering vehicle mounted lifting systems and rear coupling on road trains.

Infrastructure updates on ROVER and RVSA

27 January 21

The Department of Infrastructure has added functionality to the Component Type Approval sections of the Road Vehicle Regulation (ROVER) system to allow users to vary, suspend or revoke their approvals.

Draft revisions of Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual

20 January 21

The NHVR has published a draft of proposed updates to the Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual (HVIM).

VSB 6 Section T – Tow Trucks

20 January 21

HVIA is consulting with members on the review of Vehicle Standards Bulletin 6 (VSB6) section relating to the design and construction of tow trucks.

Have you got your RVSA implementation plan ready?

20 January 21

All heavy vehicle manufacturers need a plan for the Road Vehicle Standards Act implementation.

RVSA implementation – Interim arrangements for RAWs and SEVS

7 January 21

The Department of Infrastructure has written to industry associations regarding transition arrangements for the Registered Automotive Workshops (RAWs) scheme and the Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicles Scheme (SEVS).

ROVER release 3.0

6 January 21

The Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA) implementation team has been busy over the past few weeks preparing to deploy ROVER 3.0 to production.

Open for comment – HVIM and Tow trucks (VSB6)

16 December 20

Draft documents regarding VSB6 - Section T covering Tow trucks and proposed reviews to the Heavy Vehicle Inspection Manual are currently ioen for comment.

Road Vehicle Standards Act Draft Determinations

15 December 20

The Department of Infrastructure has released a series of draft determinations on issues relevant to the Road Vehicle Standards Act implementation.

HVIA to outline solutions for HVNL rewrite for State Committees

25 November 20

Attendees of HVIA’s State Committee meetings will have the opportunity to inform HVIA’s submission to the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) Review with the meetings kicking off in Brisbane tomorrow.

Government commences work on AVV scheme

18 November 20

The Department of Infrastructure has commenced working through the details of the proposed Authorised Vehicle Verifier (AVV) Scheme.

Time to get serious about the RVSA implementation

11 November 20

HVIA has urged members to sort out their plans for the implementation of the Road Vehicle Standards Act.

Coupling Working Group

4 November 20

Looking at proposals submitted to Standards Australia (SA) to review Australian Standards including: AS 2213.1 Commercial road vehicles ; AS/NZS 4968.1 Heavy road vehicles; AS NZS 4968.2 Heavy road vehicles; AS NZS 4968.3 Heavy road vehicles

HVNL review: consultation period extended

29 October 20

The closing date for submissions to the HVNL review consultation regulation impact statement (RIS) has been extended until Friday 20 November 2020.

Component Type Approvals – ROVER feedback

21 October 20

The Department of Infrastructure has applied the latest update to its ROVER application including addressing a number of issues related to Component Type Approvals.

Have your say on HVNL changes impact

30 September 20

It is not too late to have input into HVIA's response to the current review of the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL).

Questions over ROVER readiness to administer new certification scheme

23 September 20

Work continues on the implementation of the ROVER IT system which will replace the current certification application system, RVCS for vehicle and component certification.

HVIA’s new tyre working group kicks off

16 September 20

Last Thursday, HVIA held the lick off meeting for the Tyre working group. Just over 25 members participated in the webinar to discuss the background and scope of what the group intends to achieve.

Safety Devices to be exempted from dimension rules

19 August 20

Proposed amendments to Heavy Vehicle Standards governing dimension rules will impact HVIA members.

Component Type Approvals changes are a win for industry

8 July 20

After almost 12 month of negotiations lead by HVIA, the Department of Infrastructure recently revised its approach to Component Type Approvals. At an industry consultation meeting on Monday afternoon HVIA and key industry stakeholders praised the Department for responding
positively to industry concerns.

HVNL reset is a rare chance to iron out legacy issues

29 June 20

HVIA says the HVNL legislation review is a very rare opportunity to iron out legacy issues, making it less prescriptive and more outcome focused to harness to industry’s innovation.

HVNL Review RIS

25 June 20

The National Transport Commission (NTC) has just released the consultation regulatory impact statement (RIS) for the Review of the Heavy Vehicle National Law.

10,000 PBS vehicles is only the beginning

17 June 20

Australia’s benchmark setting Performance Based Standards (PBS) scheme has celebrated its 10,000th vehicle approval recently. HVIA says it is only the beginning of the quest for a safer more productive fleet.

New timeline for RVSA changes

10 June 20

The Department of Infrastructure has just updated its RVS legislation implementation webpage, which includes a new section on our stakeholder commitment and a link to a revised RVS Legislation Program Roadmap calendar.

Testing facility applications now open

6 May 20

The Department of Infrastructure has announced that organisations wishing to register as a testing facility under the Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA) should be able to submit applications from Wednesday 6 May 2020.

Component Type Approvals papers released

22 April 20

The Department of Infrastructure has released two documents explaining how Component Type Approvals will be managed under the new Road Vehicle Standards Act which will come into force next year.

Next round of RVSA consultation commencing soon

14 April 20

The Department of Infrastructure has announced that it will be releasing some additional Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA) guidance material for review within approximately the next week.

Updated working arrangements for the NHVR PBS team

25 March 20

In response to the current COVID-19 situation affecting the country, the NHVR PBS team will be transitioning to a work from home model starting Monday 30 March 2020.

PBS tyre report recommendations on the table

29 January 20

A review of tyre management practice in the Australian PBS system recommends a system based around the use of standard tyre characteristics for all PBS assessments.

Is your evidence good enough?

6 March 19

Members who holds an approval under the the Motor Vehicle Standards Act for Vehicle, a Component (CRN) or a Sub Assembly (SARN) should undertake an audit of the evidence used to obtain the approval.

HVIA’s Greg Forbes says that changes set for implementation in the Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA) from December this year will ...

The Road Vehicle Standards Act is coming

28 November 18

HVIA National Manager Policy and Government Relations Greg Forbes says that the new Road Vehicle Standards Act legislation is in its final stages in Parliament and is expected to take  effect from late 2019 and be fully in place by late 2020.

In particular, truck manufacturers, trailer manufacturers and component suppliers need to understand the implications ...