The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has issued a reminder to operators wishing to utilise the Victoria Emergency Drought Network Pre-Approved Permit-Based Scheme.
NHVR is emphasising “the critical need” for operators to hold a valid permit even for access to the pre-approved network.
Developed in collaboration with the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP), Agriculture Victoria, the Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF), and the Livestock Rural Transport Association of Victoria (LRTAV), this scheme aims to streamline and reduce regulatory barriers for interstate operators transporting grain and fodder into drought-affected regions of Victoria.
“The Victoria Emergency Drought Network is a crucial initiative, enabling the swift movement of essential supplies to communities in need,” said NHVR Director Southern Region Paul Simionato.
“We’ve made every effort to simplify the process, including waiving permit fees under this scheme.
“However, it’s vital that operators understand that while the network is pre-approved, access is still subject to holding a valid permit.
“This is a non-negotiable requirement to ensure safety, compliance, and effective management of our road infrastructure.”
The scheme extends access to two and three-trailer road trains, with caps at 84.0 tonnes gross mass and dimensions of 36.5 metres long, 4.6 metres high, and 2.83 metres wide.
Eligible vehicles must align with specified reference vehicle mass and dimension limits.
Operators must also comply with the Road Infrastructure Management (RIM) framework using certified vehicle-tracking systems.
Operators are also required to ensure strict adherence to biosecurity obligations, as hay and fodder can carry pests and pathogens into Victoria.
This includes meeting specific entry conditions or obtaining a Plant Biosecurity Permit from Agriculture Victoria, which prioritises drought relief permits within two business days.
“We’ve observed some instances where operators might be misinterpreting the ‘pre-approved’ aspect,” Simionato said.
“To be clear: This is a pre-approved network for road train vehicles, but operators are still required to hold a permit to access it.
“Our goal is to facilitate essential movements, but compliance protects our road networks, public safety, and Victoria’s vital agricultural sector from biosecurity risks.”
Operators can apply for permits via the NHVR website. For assistance with waiving the fee once an application is saved, operators are advised to contact the NHVR directly.
More information on the scheme is available here.