COVID-19 FAQs from the NHVR

The NHVR says it is working with all governments to ensure the on-going movement of all heavy vehicles across state borders. While a range of border restrictions are in place, all heavy vehicle movements are continuing, ensuring certainty for heavy vehicle operators, however you should be aware of some delays where border checks and border forms are in place.

The NHVR is maintaining current service levels for Accreditation, Vehicle Standards, Registration services and Access Permits through the NHVR Portal.

During this time please be patient when using these services as staff, service providers or road managers may be impacted.

You can use the NHVR Portal to prepare, lodge and track your applications or requests and there is an Information Request feature to ask questions or raise issues with us.

Like all businesses, the NHVR has planned for disruptions, but we are committed to processing applications and requests as quickly as possible.

The NHVR has agreed to waive restrictions on all curfew permits, except those related to safety and access, to move general freight and grocery deliveries. Officers have also been advised to apply discretion to heavy vehicles which may be parked near distribution centres and supermarkets, unless the heavy vehicle is posing a safety risk.

The NHVR will provide temporary changes to National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme (NHVAS) medical requirements and face-to-face audit requirements.

Western Australia, South Australian, Northern Territory, Queensland and Tasmania have border restrictions in place. There are currently no restrictions in place for travel between Victoria, NSW and the ACT.

Despite these restrictions, all freight movements are continuing.

Entry forms are required for travel into Northern Territory, Tasmania and Western Australia.

Northern Territory - Anyone entering NT is required to fill out an NT Arrival Form. This is available at the border crossing or can be filled out online here. 

Tasmania - Those arriving in Tasmania must complete a Tasmanian Arrivals Form. This can be completed before arriving in Tasmania or upon arrival using the online form here. 

Western Australia - Anyone entering WA is required to fill out a WA Government Border Arrivals Form. This can be found online here.

Queensland - Queensland Police have confirmed that freight vehicles will be let through without paperwork.

South Australia - In South Australia, transport and freight services are considered 'essential', however your details may be recorded at a border checking point.

Two-up driving teams are included in the NT, QLD, SA, TAS and WA border restriction exemptions if they fit in the following exemption category and if it’s a pre-existing standard.

Any person involved in the transport or freight of goods and logistics for goods, into, within and out of states/ territories and practise social distancing wherever possible.

Some states have advised drivers not to carry passengers who aren’t involved in the freight task.

Heavy vehicle movements are currently exempt from restrictions if you are involved in the transport or freight of goods and logistics for goods (pilot), into, within and out of the state/territory.

To be classed an essential traveler and exempt from the border restrictions, you must meet the below categories:

Queensland - FIFO workers in commercial construction, fishing, mining, energy or agribusiness industries are still allowed to enter Queensland to work without having to undertake self-quarantine.

However, they will be required to provide evidence that they are FIFO workers, who they are working for, and that they are entering Queensland to go directly to work. The companies they work for will also have to provide a health plan that complies with requirements set by the Chief Health Officer that ensures adequate hygiene and safety requirements to limit the transmission of COVID-19.

South Australia - Interstate travel for persons who ordinarily live and work in South Australia and travel for work purposes for regular periods according to established work schedules (for example, FIFO workers).

We are currently maintaining our full service levels including our on-road services.

Our on-road team have been provided with disposable rubber gloves and hand sanitiser to be used when conducting road-side activities to reduce any contact or spread of the virus.

The NHVR has spoken to major fuel companies and they are currently providing additional cleaning for their facilities and remain operational. Drivers should be aware that most have closed their in-store seating areas.

Drivers should call ahead to ensure other roadhouses and their facilities are open.

Some clear advice from BP Australia in regards to health and safety measures, fuel supply and amenities can be found here.

The NHVR is urging heavy vehicle drivers and operators to take steps to maintain their health and wellbeing while health authorities continually update advice on the impact of coronavirus (COVID-19).

The most important thing you can do to protect yourself, your staff and colleagues is to practice good hygiene, including:

>> Washing your hands regularly and using hand sanitiser
>> Keeping work areas, eating surfaces and benches clean
>> Covering your mouth while coughing or sneezing
>> Avoiding close contact with anyone who has flu-like symptoms

Operators and drivers should carry additional hand sanitiser.

If you become unwell or suspect you may have symptoms of coronavirus, please seek medical assistance regardless of whether you believe you may have come into contact with someone with the illness.

If you are unwell, regardless of the cause, please stay home.

You can find more information about coronavirus here.