The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has sought comment on planned changes to permits, chief executive Sal Petroccitto said would result in extensive benefits for heavy haulage operators across Australia.
Mr Petroccitto said the consultation process was the first step, in removing more than 30,000 permits a year .
Oversize and Over Mass notices (OSOM) would replace existing permits for Class 1 load carrying oversize and over mass vehicles,in Victoria, NSW, South Australia and Queensland.
“Once implemented, the notices allow OSOM operators instant access to the network that was afforded under the annual permit schemes, without having to wait for a permit,” Mr Petroccitto said.
Removing the requirements for an operator to obtain permits allowed industry to operate more effectively and efficiently, a massive boost to sector productivity.
“ This is a significant step towards reducing red tape across the heavy vehicle industry,” Mr Petroccitto said.
“Time off the road was costly and unproductive for freight businesses, especially small transport operators who work within smaller margins, and whatever we can do to make their lives easier while still ensuring a high-level of safety is paramount.
“While the crucial delivery outcome of these OSOM Notices is to reduce permit numbers across jurisdictions, some steps towards harmonisation have been achieved,” he said.
“Continued harmonisation of OSOM access requirements across the country is the next key initiative the NHVR is progressing.
“We want to hear directly from operators that will benefit from the Notices and feedback can be provided atwww.nhvr.gov.au/national-notices until COB, Friday June .”