February 6th, 2026New automated permit system for heavy vehicles

A new automated permit system has been rolled out for heavy vehicles.

The new Heavy Vehicle Structural Assessment Permit System (HVSAPS), uses advanced digital technology to automate up to 85 per cent of structural assessments for Class 1 and Performance-Based Standards (PBS) vehicles  – eliminating the need for most manual bridge and culvert assessments.

The technology will dramatically reduce wait times for freight operators – cutting approval times from up to six months to days – while slashing costs that can reach up to $20,000 for manual assessments.

Removing these fees, which applies to all heavy vehicle combinations except superloads, will benefit a wide range of freight vehicles that previously faced longer assessment times due to their size variations.

The Victorian Freight Plan 2025-30: Victoria Delivers, supports modernising processes like HVSAPS and making use of smart technologies to support and manage heavy vehicle operations.

With the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) assisting with the processing of relevant permits, transport operators can use HVSAPS for Victorian state roads through Australia’s heavy vehicle portal, NHVR Go.

Freight and logistics contributes $36 billion to Victoria’s economy and employs more than 240,000 Victorians.