THE FEDERAL government is inviting the heavy vehicle industry to apply for project funding through a $4-million grant program.

The government intends to provide around $4 million towards Round 8 of the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative to support industry-led heavy vehicle safety projects that address an existing issue for the transport and logistics sector.

The grant program is scheduled to close in four weeks, at 1700 on Monday 20 February 2023.

Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government minister Catherine King said the federal government’s contribution to the latest round of HVSI funding is an opportunity for the heavy vehicle industry and its supply chains to improve road safety at the coalface.

“Ideas for project topics include driver or supply chain skills and training, vehicle safety technologies and improvements, or heavy vehicle educational tools and resources,” she said.

“A new year is the perfect time to reflect and look at how we can improve day-to-day operations and safety on our roads.”

NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto said HSVI grants enable industry to spearhead their own safety project and establish their position as leaders in the field for heavy vehicle safety.

“I encourage those with a tangible project idea to apply for HVSI funding and help keep heavy vehicles moving safely and efficiently,” he said.

And assistant minister for Infrastructure and Transport senator Carol Brown said the government has invested more than $33 million across 132 HVSI projects since the grants program commenced in 2016.

“Project submissions are open to councils, industry and the community to contribute directly towards the themes of safer drivers, safer vehicles or safer road use.”