A “PRACTICAL industry-driven guide designed to support safer heavy vehicle operations”, is how the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has described its new 2026 Master Code.
The code is aimed at supporting safer heavy vehicle operations and helping all parties in the chain of responsibility (CoR) meet their safety obligations.
NHVR acting chief safety and productivity officer Kelli Walker said the updated code and supporting material provided clear, practical ways to help businesses meet their duty to ensure safety under the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL).
“This revised and expanded Master Code is not about introducing new rules or red tape,” Ms Walker said.
“It provides a clear roadmap to safer operations, informed by the collective experience of industry, regulators and operators right across the heavy vehicle supply chain.”
While the HVNL sets out specific legal requirements, it also includes a primary duty that requires all parties to ensure safety so far as is reasonably practicable.
The 2026 Master Code bridges the gap between this legal duty and everyday business decisions.
NHVR chief executive Nicole Rosie said the regulator would continue to work closely with industry during the coming months to develop further resources to support its understanding and application.
“The heavy vehicle industry operates in a complex and demanding environment, and we know operators and drivers are balancing safety, productivity and compliance every day,” she said.
“By continuing to work alongside industry, we can help turn information into action and support safer outcomes for drivers, operators and the wider community.”
Developed over two years and building on the original 2018 version, the 2026 Master Code is said to reflect the “lived experience and operational realities” of the heavy vehicle industry.
“Many of the recommendations reflect practices already in place across the industry, while also providing a strong foundation for businesses looking to strengthen or reassess their safety systems,” Ms Walker said.
“By working together and using tools like the new Master Code, we can improve safety outcomes, protect workers and the public, and support a more consistent and informed approach to safety across the industry.”
The new Master Code along with important information can be viewed at Master Code of Practice 2026.