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A recent national heavy vehicle fatigue operation has uncovered a concerning rise in false and misleading records, as the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) warns drivers and operators there is no room for complacency when it comes to managing fatigue.
More than 6,100 heavy vehicles were intercepted during Operation Ambit II (in March 2026), with more than 1 in 10 heavy vehicles found to be non-compliant overall. The fatigue non-compliance rate rose from 4.7 per cent to 5.3 per cent, compared with the previous national operation (held in November 2025).
Of the close to 150 fatigue-related offences, nearly half were deemed critical breaches, with the number of false and misleading offences increasing by more than 42 per cent.
NHVR Chief Operations Officer Paul Salvati said there was no excuse for this troubling increase, particularly given fatigue remained a critical safety risk for the heavy vehicle industry.
“Fatigue-related offences have increased in both number and severity over the past three years, while driver fatigue continues to be one of the three primary contributors to heavy vehicle fatal crashes,” Mr Salvati said.
“What is particularly concerning is the increase in false and misleading records. The NHVR and our Safety and Compliance Officers spend significant efforts in educating industry about fatigue rules and deliberately breaking these rules can be the difference between someone getting home safely or not.
“It is crucial drivers and operators are ensuring they meet their work and rest requirements. Failing to do this could not only puts themselves in harm’s way, but other drivers and road users as well.”
Administrative fatigue offences, like not carrying a work diary or not recording start times, were also on the rise, with breaches up more than 10 per cent.
“These types of offences are often precursors to more serious offences and can ultimately lead to a driver working more than the prescribed hours,” Mr Salvati said.
“Failing to adhere to these regulations can set off a chain of non-compliant offences which could ultimately lead to a crash or even fatality.”
The NHVR worked closely with police agencies in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria and Tasmania to conduct the national fatigue operations.
Mr Salvati said although police intercept activities varied across jurisdictions, this collaboration demonstrated the strength of existing partnerships and the value of combining capabilities to deliver effective heavy vehicle compliance outcomes.
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.