The Victorian Transport Association (VTA), together with the Queensland Trucking Association (QTA) and National Road Transport Association (NatRoad), has lodged a joint submission urging lawmakers to reconsider proposed changes to the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL).
The submission reflects a strong consensus across the road freight industry that the proposed two-tiered, risk-based accreditation framework could impose significant financial and legal burdens on operators, while undermining confidence in the system.
VTA CEO Peter Anderson said the collaboration demonstrates the industry’s shared commitment to safety and fairness.
“This is not just a VTA concern — it’s a united position from major industry bodies,” Anderson said.
“Accreditation should incentivise safety improvements, not create punitive risks for operators and auditors.
“The proposed framework reverses the burden of proof and exposes businesses to unnecessary legal jeopardy, which could discourage participation and compromise safety outcomes.”
The joint submission highlights:
- Increased costs and complexity for operators to implement Safety Management Systems (SMS).
- Higher audit and consultancy fees under the new National Audit Standard.
- Potential legal exposure for company directors and auditors, with audit reports being used as evidence in prosecutions.
Anderson said meaningful consultation is essential before reforms proceed.
“We support a risk-based approach to safety, but it must be proportionate and fair. The current proposal jeopardises natural justice and could have unintended consequences for the freight industry,” he said.
The VTA, QTA, and NatRoad are calling on the National Transport Commission and Parliament to engage fully with industry to ensure reforms deliver genuine safety benefits without imposing unreasonable burdens.
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