DEPUTY Prime Minister Michael McCormack has reminded stakeholders that the second intake of the Government’s Trials Business Case Program closes soon.

Local governments and the heavy vehicle industry are invited to submit proposals by the Friday February 15 deadline.

The program examines ways to boost productivity and efficiencies on local freight routes.

Mr McCormack said road users, businesses and other stakeholders with experience and knowledge of freight networks were at the centre of the planning process.

“Road freight is the engine of our economy and roads are our most valuable infrastructure asset,” Mr McCormack said.

“The Australian government is investing in a record $75bn 10-year infrastructure plan throughout the nation with a focus on road safety and road efficiency improvements, getting people home sooner and safer.

“That’s why we want to work closely with our vital industry bodies, operators and users, as well as our vast and experienced local governments, to develop business cases investigating the potential benefits of heavy vehicle charging trials for industry.”

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Mr McCormack said the program was about providing the heavy vehicle industry with the option to participate in location-specific heavy vehicle charging trials.

The type and level of a charge for a charging trial is to depend on the findings of a business case and industry feedback.

Proposals for the second intake of the Australian Government’s Trials Business Case Program must be submitted by 15 February 2019.