Work diary exemptions in Qld

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator has announced a change to work diary rules for drivers of heavy vehicles operating for primary producers in Queensland

From June 1, 2014, drivers of heavy vehicles who conduct journeys for primary producers in Queensland, and who travel under 160km from their base, no longer have to carry and record trip information in their National Driver Work Diary.

The change was announced recently by Sal Petroccitto, the recently installed CEO of the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR).

The move represents a significant increase in the work diary exemption area from 100km to 160km, and the reduction in red tape will surely come as welcome news to the drivers in Queensland it will affect.

Mr Petroccitto said the amendment was a win for common sense.

"This means less paperwork for fatigue management without compromising driver or public safety," he said.

"The NHVR has listened to the primary industry sector and moved quickly to safely reduce red tape for these operators and their transporters."

The industry groups AgForce and the Livestock and Rural Transporters Association of Queensland (LRTAQ) also welcomed the NHVR's decision.

"This is a common-sense outcome for primary producers and will go towards reducing burdensome paperwork requirements for the rural sector," said AgForce transport spokesman, Grant Maudsley.

The President of the LRTAQ, David Scott, also praised the move.

"I commend the NHVR for listening to the industry and for working with us in the development of this exemption," he said.

"I look forward to seeing the benefits delivered to our members."

While exempt drivers no longer need to carry and record trip information in a work diary, work and rest times should still be maintained by the record keepers for primary producers and their transport providers, urges the NHVR.

A copy of the driver's payment details must also be kept if he or she is paid according to the time spent at work, and retained at the record location for three years.

All other heavy vehicle drivers operating in Queensland outside of the standard 100km radius should complete their work diary as per usual.

For more information visit www.nhvr.gov.au/files/fact_sheet_-_work_diary_exemption_for_qld_primary_producers_final_-_no_logos.pdf or call 1300 MYNHVR (1300 696 487).

Work diary exemptions in Qld

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