The Australian ministry of transport says heavy vehicles up to 2.55 meters wide can now use all of Australia’s roads. This follows an historic decision last year by the country’s government to mend traffic law regulations by increasing the overall truck width.
Under new reforms, heavy vehicles up to 2.55 meters wide will now have full access to Australia’s roads.
Previously, Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia (HVIA) — which represents and advances the interests of manufacturers and suppliers of heavy vehicles and their components, equipment, and technology in Australia, welcomed this initiative.
Safety features
These wider vehicles must also have extra safety features, such as better visibility aids, stability control, advanced emergency braking, lane departure warnings, side underrun protection, and clear visibility markings.
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is collaborating with major industry groups to create a certification process for existing vehicles to qualify as Safer Freight Vehicles. Currently, only new vehicles are eligible. This new process is expected to be completed by early 2025.
A game-changer for Australia
Minister for transport Catherine King says: “We have gotten on with the job of delivering the Safer Freight Vehicles reforms, which is now in place for New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, the Northern Territory, and the Australian Capital Territory.”
NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto (Order of Australia) says as a modern and progressive regulator, the NHVR wants to ensure heavy vehicles are equipped with the latest safety technology, and make sure there are no regulatory barriers when it comes to manufacturers identifying and installing new systems.
“This announcement is a gamechanger for both operators and manufacturers, and will ensure the safest vehicles are available in Australia, helping keep all road users safe,” says Petroccitto.
Australia freight and logistics market
Mordor Intelligence reports the Australian freight and logistics market is estimated to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.9% in the next six years.
“The maritime industry is a major part of Australia. The Port of Brisbane is the largest seaport in the state of Queensland. It is the third-busiest and fastest-growing port in all of Australia. This port is responsible for more than 28 million of cargo and 2,600 ships each year,” reads the report.
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About the author
Sharl is a qualified journalist. He has over 10 years’ experience in the media industry, including positions as an editor of a magazine and Business Editor of a daily newspaper. Sharl also has experience in logistics specifically operations, where he worked with global food aid organisations distributing food into Africa. Sharl enjoys writing business stories and human interest pieces.
