The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has released Australia's first gazette Notice for Performance Based Standards (PBS) truck and dog combinations.
PBS combinations are modern vehicles designed to perform tasks more productively, safely and sustainably and are tested to rigorous safety standards.
The Notice will replace 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.
NSW Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight Duncan Gay congratulated NHVR and RMS on the Notice and said it's a big win for 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," Mr Gay said.
"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 PBS network without the requirement for IAP. IAP remains a requirement for vehicles operating at Higher Mass Limits.
NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto said the Regulator had co-designed the Notice following detailed consultation with state and local government representatives.
"Encouraging industry with better access for newer, safer, high-productivity vehicles means less trips and that’s a good outcome for all road users," Mr Petroccitto said.
"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."
A PBS Vehicle Approval will continue to be needed.
For more information see the National class 2 PBS level 1 and 2A truck and dog trailer authorisation notice 2016 (no.1) (PDF, 711KB) and the supporting Information sheet - National class 2 PBS level 1 and 2A truck and dog trailer authorisation notice 2016 (PDF, 798KB)
Contact: Jillian Bagnall | 07 3309 8605