Performance-Based Standards

Performance Based Standards - Australia’s PBS fleet (PDF, 952KB) - This joint report, published in May 2018 by the NHVR and ARTSA, explains the uptake of Performance-Based Standards (PBS) vehicles in Australia, and how this scheme now has a significant influence on purchasing decisions for heavy duty vehicles (with a rating equal to or greater than 12 tonnes) in this country.

About

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Performance-Based Standards (PBS) vehicles are designed to perform their tasks as productively, safely and sustainably as possible, and to operate on networks that are appropriate for their level of performance.

Application process and forms

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It is important to consider what safety and productivity benefits you might achieve through the Performance-Based Standards (PBS) scheme. Those benefits should be assessed against the likely costs and risks of submitting an application.

Approval process

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An outline of the Performance-Based Standards (PBS) approval process.

Blueprints and resources

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'Blueprint' designs for quad-axle semi-trailers and B-doubles have been pre-approved using Performance-Based Standards (PBS) and made available to the heavy vehicle industry. Operators can use these 'blueprints' to apply for access on a PBS networks.

Guidelines and rules

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The Performance-Based Standards (PBS) scheme operates under a nationally consistent set of rules and guidelines.

PBS Review Panel

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The PBS Review Panel determines whether or not a vehicle meets the performance-based standards approved by the Transport and Infrastructure Council.

Quad-axle group vehicle combinations

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Semi-trailers, B-doubles and other combinations fitted with quad-axle groups can carry heavy loads more safely on a defined road network.

Road and bridge access

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Access to roads and bridges under the Performance-Based Standards (PBS) scheme are governed by a national set of rules and guidelines.

Useful contacts

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A contact list of PBS assessors, PBS certifiers and jurisdictional contacts.

Vehicle standards

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Vehicles are assessed under the Performance-Based Standards (PBS) scheme according to 16 minimum vehicle performance standards and 4 infrastructure protection standards.

FAQs

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Frequently asked questions about the Performance-Based Standards scheme.