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The NHVR will introduce a new self-clearing defect notice for heavy vehicle defects that do not pose a safety risk.
NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto said the new category of defect notice would be available from July 1 as part of changes to the Heavy Vehicle National Law.
“This category will allow minor non-safety related defects to be rectified by the operator, including where a vehicle’s number plate is obscured or illegible,” Mr Petroccitto said.
“A self-clearing defect notice means the operator does not have to present the vehicle to an approved person to clear the notice.
“I believe this new defect notice will improve roadside compliance and reduce the compliance burden for industry. Where a record of the self-clearing defect notice is available it can be checked by authorised officers the next time the vehicle is intercepted.”
Examples of defects which may result in the issuing of a self-clearing defect notice include a cracked light lens, obscured number plate or a failed brake light, where all others are working. Failing to rectify the defects listed in a self-clearing defect notice within 28 days can result in fines of up to $3000.
The changes to the law starting on July 1 also see a new offence created for failing to display and maintain a National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme label under the Maintenance Management Accreditation scheme and the Mass Management Accreditation scheme.
The cost of a NHVR access permit will increase from $70 to $72 on July 1. All other NHVR fees and charges remain the same. For more information visit www.nhvr.gov.au/law-policies/fee-schedule
All HVNL penalties will increase by CPI. A full list of penalties is available here www.nhvr.gov.au/law-policies/penalties-and-infringements
The NHVR has also agreed to extend the current roller-brake testing transition period in NSW from June 30, 2017 until September 29, 2017. This transition period allows heavy vehicles that achieve a brake test result greater than 3kN/t, but less than 4.4kN/t to be given an official warning on first time detection.
Contacts: Andrew Berkman | 0429 128 637