$5.6M funding announced for heavy vehicle safety improvement initiatives

A further $5.6 million investment has been announced to support the delivery of safety improvements across Australia’s heavy vehicle industry, as part of the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI).

Round seven of the HVSI is now open, with programs which support implementable, value-for-money projects that deliver tangible improvements to heavy vehicle safety to receive financial support.

Under the previous round of funding, 74 applications were made for projects. These projects included the development of educational training g programs for drivers, field testing to evaluate component safety and mental health initiatives.

Eligible projects must be implemented during the 2022-23 financial year and be completed within two years of commencement.

Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport Scott Buchholz said the Federal Government had so far allocated around $33.6 million through the HVSI.

“It’s been great to see projects that tackle safety issues in sectors including agriculture, livestock and rural freight, and raise awareness about issues such as driver fatigue and mental health,” Buchholz said.

“It’s crucial we continue to prioritise these types of projects to ensure a productive and safe future for the industry.”

National Heavy Vehicle Regulator Chief Executive Officer Sal Petroccitto said the funding would provide an opportunity for businesses to contribute to safety improvements for heavy vehicles.

“I urge community and industry groups with tangible, effective ideas that align with the theme Safer Drivers, Safer Vehicles, Safer Road Use to submit your application and make a difference,” Petroccitto said.

Applications for Round 7 funding are open until 14 February 2022.

To access the HVSI submission guidelines, click here.