HVNL Review: heavy vehicle access on public roads

The National Transport Commission (NTC) is seeking feedback on its third issues paper as part of the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) review, this time dealing with heavy vehicle access on Australian roads.

The paper considers current access arrangements under the HVNL, analyses access-related issues and seeks feedback on ways to improve heavy vehicle access.

NTC Chief Executive Officer Gillian Miles said access issues are complex and can cause problems for industry.

‘Access is straightforward for many heavy vehicles, however operators of higher-productivity vehicles often need to apply for a permit, or operate under notice, which can result in delays and other costs. These costs affect all Australian businesses and households.

‘We also need to manage our road infrastructure effectively. We need to find the best way to make sure we allow heavy vehicles access wherever it is safe and sensible and, in doing so, make access decisions quickly, consistently and transparently’, Dr Miles said.

Consultation on the issues paper is open until 16 August 2019.