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The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is urging Queenslanders to make safety their priority every time they get behind the wheel, as the state confronts a road toll that remains unacceptably high.
With Queensland Road Safety Week (QRSW) launching today, the NHVR is calling on all road users – whether behind the wheel of a heavy vehicle or car – to recognise the role they play in preventing deaths and serious injuries.
In 2025, 306 people lost their lives - 1.7 per cent more than 2024’s 302 deaths and 7.4 per cent above Queensland’s previous five-year average.
NHVR Chief Operations Officer Paul Salvati said behind every statistic was a life lost, and a family and community forever changed.
"More than 300 people lost their lives on Queensland roads last year – that kind of figure should concern each and every one of us,” Mr Salvati said.
"Road safety is a shared responsibility. Whether you drive a truck, a car or ride a motorcycle, the decisions you make on the road can have life-changing consequences.”
Mr Salvati said the NHVR was committed to playing its role in spreading awareness about road safety, including practical tips and insights into how to share the roads with heavy vehicles.
“Alarmingly, NHVR research has shown almost a third of young drivers admitted to experiencing a close call with a heavy vehicle within the past month,” he said.
“It’s why we have launched the next phase of our Don’t #uck With a Truck campaign aimed at Gen Z to start meaningful conversations about safety in the community.
“But it’s not only the younger generation who needs to be alert while driving – all drivers, whether light or heavy vehicles – should take care when they are behind the wheel.”
Mr Salvati said fatigue also remained a leading factor in many heavy vehicle crashes.
“Please recognise signs of fatigue. No load or route is worth risking your life or those around you,” he said.
If a heavy vehicle driver is concerned about their safety or feels pressured to drive, they are encouraged to contact the NHVR’s anonymous Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting Line on 1800 931 785 or visit the HVCRL webpage.
Mr Salvati said safety was a team effort and encouraged drivers and operators to use the reporting line.
“Information provided through our Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting Line helps us identify unsafe practices,” he said.
“Callers can remain anonymous, and we investigate every call which comes through.”
In support of QRSW, the NHVR is participating in a community road safety event hosted by Logan Police at Logan Central Plaza, 38/74 Wembley Road, Logan Central, on Monday 17 August 2026 from 10am-2pm. The team will help promote heavy vehicle awareness and education with Queensland’s young drivers via NHVR’s Don’t #uck With a Truck program.