The National Transport Commission (NTC), together with the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), has launched a consultation process on four key statutory instruments that will support implementation of the updated Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL).
In August 2025, Australian transport ministers approved the draft Heavy Vehicle National Law Amendment Bill (HVNL) and Heavy Vehicle National Amendment Regulations for introduction to the Queensland Parliament, the host jurisdiction for the HVNL. Subject to passage, the updated law is expected to commence in mid-2026.
To support its implementation, the NTC is now undertaking consultation on four key statutory instruments covering:
> Accreditation guidelines;
> A safety management system standard;
> A national audit standard; and
> Fatigue alternative compliance hours.
To assist with providing feedback, the NTC has developed a consultation overview and is asking industry stakeholders to consider the clarity of the requirements, suitability for operators of different size and complexity, and any technical or administrative issues that may affect implementation.
The consultation overview is available here. Submissions close Monday, December 1, 2025.
Interested parties can also register to attend two online information sessions. Details as follows:
> Monday, November 10, 2025, 2:00-3:00pm (AEDT): Covering Safety Management System (SMS) Standard and the National Audit Standard (NAS). Register here.
> Thursday, November 120, 2025, 10:30-11:30am (AEDT): Covering the Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Guidelines and Fatigue Alternative Compliance Hours. Register here.
Both sessions will be recorded and made available here shortly after for anyone unable to attend live.