The Victorian Government is seeking to improve productivity for freight operators by rolling out the new Heavy Vehicle Structural Assessment Permit System (HVSAPS), which uses advanced digital technology to automate up to 85 per cent of structural assessments for Class 1 and Performance-Based Standards (PBS) vehicles – eliminating the need for most manual bridge and culvert assessments.
By removing these fees (which apply to all heavy vehicle combinations except super-loads) the initiative aims to benefit a wide range of freight vehicles that previously faced longer assessment times due to their size variations.
The Government claims the technology – which HVIA gained a sneak peek of just before Christmas – will dramatically reduce wait times for freight operators – cutting approval times from up to six months to days – while slashing costs that can reach up to $20,000 for manual assessments.
The initiative is being undertaken in collaboration with the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) – which is assisting with the processing of relevant permits – and transport operators can use HVSAPS for Victorian state roads through Australia’s heavy vehicle portal, NHVR Go.
Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne says the new system is an initiative of the Government’s Business Acceleration Fund and recognises the importance of freight and logistics, which contributes $36 billion to Victoria’s economy and employs more than 240,000 Victorians.
“By using smart technology, we’re delivering faster, more efficient outcomes across the supply chain that puts Victoria at the forefront of freight reform,” she says.
HVIA will work closely with Freight Victoria on the roll-out of the initiative and urges members to provide any feedback or queries that it can take forward on industry’s behalf.
For more information, contact Chief Engineer Rachel Michaud at r.michaud@hvia.asn.au or Chief Technical Officer Adam Ritzinger at a.ritzinger@hvia.asn.au.