The Queensland Government has passed legislation establishing Australia’s first National Heavy Vehicle Regulator, which is now due to commence operations at the beginning of January next year.

 

The legislation will mean long haul operators will no longer need to meet individual state and territory laws that regulate log books, driving hours and maximum loads.

 

The passage of the NHVR law coincides with the Federal Government passing legislation that will establish the first National Marine Safety Regulatory, which will aim to lift maritime safety standards, reduce red tape and better protect the marine environment.

 

The passing of the two pieces of legislation follows the establishment of the National Rail Safety Regulator, which will see the country’s rail system brought under a single, streamlined regulator effective from January next year.

 

 

The Federal Government estimates the combined savings from the establishment of the three regulators to be in excess of $30 billion in direct and flow-on benefits over the coming 20 years.