Regulator targets grape harvest truck movements in multi-state blitz

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has launched a grape harvest movement blitz – targeting mass, load and fatigue offences.

Operation Fortified is a multi-state operation across South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales that focuses on heavy vehicles involved in transporting grapes.

According to the NHVR, this blitz comes after previous operations resulted in non-compliance rates of almost 40 per cent of the vehicles intercepted.

For Operation Fortified, NHVR Safety and Compliance Officers will undertake roadside intercepts primarily focused on spillages, permit and fatigue offences over the next several weeks.

NHVR Director of Operations Southern Region Paul Simionato said the move comes “at a crucial time”, with significant spills already detected on several roads and intersections.

“Overfilled and poorly loaded grape trailers can cause spills on road surfaces, resulting in slippery conditions leading to a loss of traction. This is dangerous for all road users, not just heavy vehicles,” Simionato said.

“Almost 1.6 million tonnes of grapes were crushed in Australia last year, which is a monumental amount and indicative of the size of the industry.

“Officers will also be paying close attention to grape loading, as any type of unsecured load can impact a heavy vehicle’s stability, steering and brake performance – not securing loads are simply not worth the risk.”

NHVR Director of Operations Central Region Brett Patterson added that fatigue and permit offences would also be areas of focus.

“Previous operations have revealed that non-compliance rates are increasing during grape harvesting, up from 31 per cent in 2024 to almost 40 per cent in 2025, which is of concern,” he said.

“Fatigue offences have also increased which is alarming, because fatigue remains one of the most significant contributors to serious incidents. We would remind all drivers and operators to remain vigilant when it comes to adhering to work and rest requirements.

“Drivers should expect to have their work diaries inspected, as well as vehicle permits to ensure they’re valid.

“No-one should feel unsafe while at work and heavy vehicle drivers who feel pressured by their employer to drive while fatigued can call the NHVR’s Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting Line on 1800 931 785.”

The NHVR has also reminded operators that further guidance, advice and fatigue management can be found on the NHVR website here.

Heavy vehicle operators can seek guidance on identifying hazards and risks associated with the wine industry in the Wine Industry Code of Practice.