The Federal Government, in partnership with the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), has opened a new $4.4 million funding round aimed at improving safety outcomes across Australia’s heavy vehicle sector.
Available through Round 11 of the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI), the grants will support industry-led projects designed to lift compliance, capability and safety performance in the transport and logistics industry.
A strong focus of this round will be on projects that harness new and emerging technologies, helping build long-term knowledge and capability across Australia’s freight network. Industry associations, local councils, researchers, innovators and businesses are all being encouraged to submit proposals addressing real-world safety challenges.
Since its inception, the HVSI has received more than $45 million in Federal Government funding, supporting 181 projects across its first ten rounds. Past recipients have delivered initiatives including AI-based fatigue monitoring systems, heavy vehicle safety simulators and a range of programs strengthening internal safety management systems.
Assistant Minister for Regional Development Senator Anthony Chisholm said the latest funding round reinforces the Government’s commitment to safer roads and a future-ready freight industry.
“When it comes to investing in heavy vehicle safety, our Albanese Labor Government is backing initiatives that prepare Australia’s freight and logistics industry for the future,” said Chisholm.
“Through Round 11 of the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative, we’re supporting industry to develop, trial and scale forward-looking solutions that respond to emerging risks, new vehicle technologies and changing road environments.”
NHVR CEO Nicole Rosie said the program continues to play a critical role in driving innovation and collaboration across the sector.
“Building on the successful projects already supported through this program, we’re placing a stronger emphasis on future-ready solutions with sustainable outcomes for Australia’s heavy vehicle industry,” said Rosie.
“Reducing Australia’s road death toll continues to be the number one priority for the NHVR, and we can collectively achieve this by building a safer, more connected and innovative industry.”
Applications for Round 11 of the HVSI are now open and will close at 5pm AEST on Monday, 16 March 2026.
Project guidelines and application details are available via the NHVR.
Read about the NHVR’s Master Code.
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