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As Australia’s grain harvest season kicks off, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is working to support and keep our farmers, heavy vehicle drivers, and transport operators safe.
With National Agriculture Day being held on Friday 15 November, the NHVR is highlighting the need for safe practices as heavy machinery and bulk loads start rolling out across our highways.
This harvest season, the NHVR has launched a series of operations to address the challenges associated with grain harvest.
These include Operation Harvest in South Australia and Victoria as well as an increased presence in Queensland’s Toowoomba region to ensure compliance and provide the right advice and information on enhancing safety across the sector.
NHVR Acting Chief Operations Officer Michelle Tayler emphasised the importance of safety during such a high-demand period.
“This isn’t just another season — it’s the result of a year’s hard work for our farmers and the backbone of our food system,” Ms Tayler said.
“The NHVR’s core role is to help keep our roads safe and our supply chain strong, which is why our team is on the ground, working closely with the industry to make sure drivers, machinery, and loads are ready for the road.
“With heavier equipment and trucks loaded to capacity, we’re encouraging everyone to focus on the basics — roadworthy vehicles, safe loads, rested drivers, and the right routes.
“Together, we’re making sure our farmers’ hard work reaches communities across the country safely.”
Key safety checks will focus on ensuring agricultural machinery — such as headers — are safely mobilised and equipped for the road.
The NHVR’s data from last year’s Operation Fusion found common risks such as brake defects, overloading, and aging vehicles often lead to safety issues during high-demand seasons and are a significant factor in heavy vehicle incidents.
To access the guide and additional material, see Regulatory Advice – Operating in the agricultural sector.