The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has announced that round 8 of the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI) program is now open.

The HVSI is a federally funded, discretionary merit-based grants program aimed at supporting projects that deliver tangible improvements in heavy vehicle safety. The program welcomes applications that align with the themes of safer drivers, safer vehicles and safer road use.

The application form and HVSI submission guidelines can be found on the NHVR website here. Submissions close 5pm (AEST) Monday February 20, 2023.

Who can apply for a grant under the HVSI?

Submissions are sought from participants and stakeholders in the Australian heavy vehicle industry. Submissions that are supported by a broad group of stakeholders are encouraged. We encourage submissions from Councils; small, medium and large businesses; owner operators; peak bodies and associations that are registered with an ABN and hold the required insurances.

What types of projects will be funded?

Any initiatives that will provide tangible safety benefits to the heavy vehicle industry can be submitted such as:

  • Technology/materials to support industry to increase safety awareness and compliance. Engineering specific projects and technology solutions to improve road safety (*however we will not fund the purchase of equipment/services for the benefit of an individual).
  • Heavy vehicle safety education and awareness campaigns addressing topics such as load restraint/loading techniques, fatigue or any heavy vehicle specific education initiative.
  • Programs or initiatives that support businesses to implement a Safety Management System.
  • Safety promotion and training for drivers or specific roles.

*Please refer to the HVSI Submission Guidelines for details about what will not be funded.
For a full list of all projects previously funded visit Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI) | NHVR

How are applications assessed?

The HVSI is a discretionary merit-based grants program, all applications are assessed against the eligibility and assessment criteria and their ability to meet the program objectives. All eligible applications are assessed by the HVSI Grants Assessment Panel comprising of NHVR subject matter experts and representatives from the Office of Road Safety. Members are chosen based on their experience and broad understanding of the heavy vehicle industry and its safety priorities. Panel recommendations are then provided to the Australian Government.

How will I know if my project is successful?

After the recommended projects have been provided to the Australian Government by the HVSI Grants Assessment Panel the Australian Government will announce the successful projects and all applicants are then advised in writing of the outcome.

Where can I find more information?

For more information, please reach out to the HVSI team via [email protected] or visit Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI) | NHVR

An interactive Q&A session will be held online on Monday January 9, 2023. This session will allow you to ask questions about the process and seek clarification of any concerns or issues prior to submitting. Register for the Q&A session here.