Work and rest hours exemptions can be provided for operators and drivers of fatigue-related heavy vehicles who seek maximum work times and minimum rest times beyond the prescribed limits in the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL). Applicants must show that Advanced Fatigue Management (AFM) or Basic Fatigue Management (BFM) limits are not suitable and that the proposed permitted limits are safe.
A safety case is required as part of the application in order for National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) to assess that the proposed alternative work and rest hours application are supported by a rigorous fatigue management safety system including risk analysis and mitigation plans.
The application will be assessed by the NHVR to determine the level of fatigue risk and if appropriate safety management systems are in place. If necessary, the NHVR will seek advice from the Fatigue Expert Reference Group (FERG) on the safety of proposed safety countermeasures.
For more detailed information download the Work and rest hours exemption fact sheet (PDF, 602KB).
Work and rest hours exemption forms
- Establish work and rest hour exemption (permit) (PDF, 177KB) - this form is for operators and drivers seeking to establish a work and rest hour exemption (permit) within fatigue management
- Amend work and rest hour exemption (permit) (PDF, 167KB) - this form is for exemption holders seeking to amend a fatigue management exemption (permit)
- Cancel fatigue management exemption (permit) (PDF, 186KB) - this form is for exemption holders seeking to cancel a fatigue management exemption (permit)
- Replace fatigue management exemption (permit) (PDF, 168KB) - this form is for exemption holders seeking to replace a fatigue management exemption (permit) which has been defaced, destroyed, lost or stolen
If you're thinking about applying for a work and rest hours exemption (notice) please contact the NHVR for more information.