HVIA has called on the Federal Government to fix eligibility gaps in the $1 billion Economic Resilience Program. The Government this week opened applications for the loans program via the National Reconstruction Fund, offering zero-interest loans to eligible Australian businesses to help manage market disruption and strengthen national resilience.
The program targets manufacturing and logistics businesses, particularly those linked to freight and logistics, fuel, fertiliser and plastics, with applications open from April 20, 2026.
Loans are available via participating banks for businesses with turnover of up to $100 million seeking up to $5 million, or directly through the NRFC for larger businesses or loans above that threshold.
HVIA has welcomed the program but is seeking urgent clarification from the Government to ensure the heavy vehicle supply chain is eligible.
HVIA is concerned that key parts of the heavy vehicle supply chain – businesses that repair, wholesale, sell and manufacture heavy vehicle components – may be unintentionally excluded in the prescribed ABS ANZSIC industry codes, despite being materially impacted by the current Middle East crisis.
Todd Hacking, CEO of HVIA, says “We’ve sought urgent advice from the Federal Government. The reality is as suppliers of equipment our members hurt when the transport operators hurt, and they are as affected as those operating a heavy vehicle right now.”