One regulator, one rule book delivers smarter way to access Australia’s road network

10-02-2014

Today’s commencement of the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) means Australia’s heavy vehicle industry now has a one-stop shop for fast-tracked access applications, as the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) launches its national online Access Management System (AMS).
 
NHVR CEO Richard Hancock said applying for heavy vehicle access to the nation’s road network had never been so easy.
 
“Today’s commencement of the national rule book (the HVNL) makes the NHVR the single point of contact for access permits,” said Mr Hancock.
 
“For the first time, operators will no longer need to apply for permits from multiple road managers. The NHVR will be a single contact for operators, dealing with the relevant state and territory road authorities and local governments to manage applications from start to finish.
 
“Operators only need to submit one online application and pay a $70 application fee for their entire journey, no matter how far they’re travelling.
 
The AMS will cover all types of access requests including:

  • interstate or territory freight tasks
  • tasks involving local roads
  • special access requests (eg. oversize, overmass, cranes)
  • and special vehicle requests such as performance-based standards (PBS).

"While there are a number of ways to submit an application, using our online channel is the smart way to go, because it will allow for the fastest processing through to the assessment stage," said Mr Hancock.
 
The AMS will allow operators to submit access applications entirely online with the following key features:

  • The NHVR Journey Planner - an interactive online map service which will display approved routes for use by heavy vehicles. The Journey Planner will allow operators to plan their heavy vehicle journey and identify if an application for an access permit is required. Journeys can be saved and used in applications for an access permit. Road managers will use the Journey Planner to quickly identify where potential route assessments would need to be conducted or to suggest alternative routes. 
     
  • Digital signatures – applications can be completed on a computer and digitally signed; applicants don’t need to print out forms.
     
  • Unique customer login – operators can register their details with the NHVR and have that information pre-filled on their applications when they login. 
     
  • Electronic tracking and documentation – applications are stored in the AMS database and any queries, advice or correspondence during the application process are added to an operator's record. All parties involved in the application will be kept informed of its progress.

The NHVR will also have dedicated resources to help operators transition to the new AMS, including: 

  • NHVR Journey Planner user guides and e-learning videos to ensure industry can get the most out of this tool.
     
  • Phone support line at 1300 MY NHVR (1300 696 487) – from registering your details to selecting the right form, NHVR Call Centre staff are trained to assist in all aspects of submitting an application. 
     
  • Specialist case managers – The NHVR will review all applications and has dedicated case managers to work through complex issues with customers to ensure the application is correct and has all the information a road manager needs to make a decision on access.  

“We have built the nation’s first cross-border, cross-authority ICT system for managing heavy vehicle access to the nation’s road network.  From today, the AMS means less fuss, money and paperwork for busy operators trying to get a vehicle on the right roads,” Mr Hancock said.
 
For further information visit the NHVR website www.nhvr.gov.au or contact 1300 MYNHVR (1300 696 487).