HVNL Reform Open For Consultation until 1st DEC 25

As part of the HVNL reform, heavy vehicle accreditation is transitioning from a prescriptive, compliance-based approach to a risk-based system focused on safety management.

To support this shift, the National Transport Commission (NTC) has developed key documents, including:

• SMS Standard: Outlines performance outcomes for compliant safety management systems. 

• Schedule 1 – SMS Evidence Requirements: Details evidence expectations and supports the NHVR’s assessment process. 

• Standard for Alternative Compliance Hours: Establishes a framework for alternative fatigue compliance and the use of the Risk Classification System. 

• Ministerial Guidelines for Heavy Vehicle Accreditation (Ministerial Guidelines): Directs the NHVR’s accreditation decisions. 

Complementing these, the NHVR has developed the National Audit Standard (NAS) to provide a consistent, impartial audit framework for SMS and ACA requirements.

The draft NAS, along with the Ministerial Guidelines and SMS Standard, is now open for public consultation until Monday, 1 December.

This is a critical opportunity for operators and industry stakeholders to provide feedback and help ensure the framework is clear, practical, and supports consistent, risk-based auditing that strengthens safety and compliance outcomes.

We invite you to:

• Review the standards and guidelines 

• Share your feedback to help shape a safer, more efficient accreditation system.

You can find the consultation package and share your feedback through the NTC’s project webpage.

Your input is vital to shaping the future of heavy vehicle accreditation.