Australia heavy vehicle fatigue non-compliance rates rise

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has reported a rise in driver fatigue non-compliance within Australia’s heavy vehicle industry. Results from Operation Ambit II, conducted in March, revealed that the fatigue non-compliance rate increased from 4.7 per cent to 5.3 per cent compared to the previous national operation in November.

Out of more than 6,100 interceptions, more than one in 10 heavy vehicles were found to be non-compliant. Of the nearly 150 fatigue-related offences recorded, almost half were classified as critical breaches. Notably, false and misleading records increased by more than 42 per cent.

NHVR Chief Operations Officer Paul Salvati stated that fatigue remains a primary contributor to heavy vehicle fatal crashes. Under the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL), fleet operators face significant legal exposure through the Chain of Responsibility. This includes obligations to ensure drivers are fit to drive, with upcoming 2026 amendments expanding these duties for operators of vehicles over 4.5 tonnes GVM.