PLAY BY THE RULES: MEET YOUR KEY TRANSPORT REGULATORS

Regulations on speed, work diaries and loading may differ from state to state, so it’s important to do your research before you get behind the wheel. Whether you're new to the industry, moving or travelling interstate, or upsizing your truck fleet to include a heavier class of trucks, your transport authorities will have all the information you need to make sure you're on top of your compliance requirements. We've scoured their websites and found some handy resources you'll be glad you come across - so before you set off on your next journey, take time to check out what's on offer.  

AUSTRALIA-WIDE

National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR)

Need to get your head around national loading and fatigue laws? The NHVR is the website to visit. They’re responsible for setting fees, penalties, and standards that affect all vehicles over 4.5 tonnes. They are a one-stop shop for setting blanket regulations and operate as one of the highest associations in the industry. The NHVR website has a handy journey planner that helps you decide on a route depending on your vehicle type and mass limits, which could save you fuel, money and time before you set off.

National Transport Commission (NTC)

If you want to stay ahead of the curve, the NTC media release page is updated regularly and is an excellent resource to keep you up-to-date on all developments in the industry, from heavy vehicle fatigue reports to driverless trucks. The NTC website keeps a summary of all the laws and regulations that vehicles must comply with and also provide case studies and FAQs on issues such as telematics and environmental issues facing drivers.  

STATE-BY-STATE

TASMANIA

Department of State Growth - Transport

If you’ve never driven in Tassie before, this department’s online driver knowledge tests will keep you up to speed with the state’s regulations before you set off. Tassie’s Department of Transport has some excellent features for drivers and fleet managers on their website like this helpful FAQ page on fatigue management. Information like approved route networks for truck and dog trailers, mass limits, and the driver’s handbook are all available online.

NORTHERN TERRITORY

Department of Transport - NT Government

The NT has not adopted fatigue management aspects of the HVNL like other states, but do have their own code of practice regarding drivers and fatigue. You can also visit the website for information on heavy vehicle load restraint, modifying heavy vehicles and what you need to consider before buying or selling a heavy vehicle.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Main Roads Western Australia

If you’re travelling with delicate or slow-moving loads, Main Roads Western Australia has you covered; you can book a traffic escort on their website to make sure you get there with your cargo intact. This department has a Chain of Responsibility clarification page and a comprehensive landing page for new truck owners looking for the key regulations they’ll need to be across. They also provide heavy vehicle operators with all the essential information they require to work and drive in WA, including permits, notices and updates. If you need something explained about your National Driver Work Diary, or mass management, this is the department to check in with.

QUEENSLAND

Queensland Department of Main Roads

With challenging weather conditions at play all-year-round, getting lost or breaking down in Queensland can cost you time and money. Luckily, QDMR have a guide to Queensland’s roads on their website so you can plan your route well in advance - as well as checking-in on the latest information regarding areas affected by floodwater conditions and other road hazards.  

NEW SOUTH WALES

Roads and Maritime NSW

Roads and Maritime NSW deal with policy and regulations affecting transport operators in the state. You can also apply for special permits or check out their heavy vehicle network maps and approved road lists to make sure you’re on the right track when working in NSW. Roads and Maritime Services also offers links to handy apps such as the Service NSW App which lets you set reminders for rego payments, and to renew your vehicle registration from your phone.

Transport For NSW - Centre For Road Safety

Driver fatigue is one of the biggest killers on our roads, so whether you’re heading to NSW or not, walk through the 'Test your Tired Self' application put together by Transport for NSW’s Centre for Road safety. This quick quiz will help  you decide whether you’re fatigue-free and safe to get behind the wheel.

VICTORIA

VicRoads

Victoria’s roads can be chockas at the best of times, so it pays to be informed before you plan your routes. VicRoads have a comprehensive guide to their city road projects and rural road disruptions with details on how each project will affect traffic. You can check out their website if you need information about the permit applications for heavy vehicles, enforcement and compliance, maps, access and route information. They also deal with the Road Management Act, regulations, codes and network policy.