The long-awaited update to the Heavy Vehicle National Law, colloquially referred to as ‘HVNL 2.0’, officially began on Saturday, August 1, 2026.
HVIA has used this newsletter and in-person Member Forums to keep members up-to-date on the changes that may impact their customers and operations.
The sections of the amended law that are most relevant to HVIA members are the changes to Mass, Dimension and Loading (MDL), and the Performance Based Standards (PBS scheme).
The NHVR has provided two fact sheets on the MDL changes, and details on the PBS changes on its website. The fact sheets and website are available online via the below links.
> Mass, Dimension and Loading fact sheets.
> PBS scheme guidance fact sheets.
Further information is provided in an earlier newsletter article, which is available here.
HVIA strongly encourages all impacted members to carefully review the changes and advises that Chief Technical Officer Adam Ritzinger (pictured above at HVIA’s Q3 Member Forum in Melbourne) is available to answer questions.
HVIA is also aware of inconsistencies between some of the new aspects of the HVNL, and existing regulatory instruments, such as the Australia Design Rules.
Two examples related to the length of semi-trailers, and Side Underrun Protection System (SUPS) requirements for trailers, and the pathways that members should follow to ensure they remain compliant, are explained here.
Any new issues should be raised with Adam at a.ritzinger@hvia.asn.au.