The new notice will replace the need for state-based permits for heavy vehicle combinations
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has released a new gazette Notice for Performance Based Standards (PBS) truck and dog combinations.
The notice is aimed at replacing the need for state-based permits for heavy vehicle combinations comprising of a three- or four-axle truck, towing a three, four or five-axle dog trailer.
It means the majority of state roads and some local roads covering more than 341,000 kilometres for Level 1 PBS combinations and 101,000 km for Level 2 PBS combinations will be more easily accessed.
The notice, which is expected to remove 1000 permits, was co-designed by the NHVR following extensive consultations with state and local government bodies.
“Encouraging industry with better access for newer, safer, high-productivity vehicles means less trips and that’s a good outcome for all road users,” NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto says.
“These vehicles are delivering safer transport while a higher degree of access certainty will improve efficiency and improve productivity for operators.
“We’ll continue to work with road managers across the country to expand this network.”
NSW roads, maritime and freight minister Duncan Gay congratulated NHVR and the state’s Roads and Maritime Services on the notice, saying it helps NSW trucking operators who will no longer be required to obtain individual access permits.
“The change removes around 300 permits in the state – it is a common sense improvement that supports the NSW Government’s commitment of making it easier for trucking companies to do business,” Gay says.
“Since 2011, the NSW Government has made it our priority to cut red tape and increase access, with more than 95 per cent of state roads now open to higher mass limits for vehicles operating under this Notice.”
PBS truck and dog operators working at Concessional Mass Limits will benefit from increased access on the NSW network, gaining use of 25/26 metre B-double routes without the requirement for IAP.
IAP remains a requirement for vehicles operating at Higher Mass Limits.
For more information visit www.nhvr.gov.au.