THE National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is calling for feedback on the different heavy vehicle loading schemes used during grain harvest across Australia.

NHVR executive director freight and supply chain productivity Peter Caprioli said the ‘Grain Harvest Management Schemes Review Issues Paper’ called for feedback on the creation of national standards.

“There are currently a range of schemes operating nationally with allowances for mass and operational conditions that vary significantly in each state,” Mr Caprioli said.

“The issues paper looks at the various opportunities and challenges that exist with the current schemes, and options to achieve national consistency.

“Developing a set of national standards has the potential to increase cross-border access, which would help boost regional industries and economies through better connected regions.”

Different state schemes are currently operating in New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria and South Australia.

A scheme also operates in Western Australia, which is outside the Heavy Vehicle National Law.

Each scheme allows for a variety of allowances, including increased loads of up to 10 per cent, depending on the state.

Mr Caprioli said the issues paper showed that grain transport costs could represent up to 30pc of total production costs.

“The review may recommend developing a set of national standards in relation to Grain Harvest Management Scheme operator accreditation, vehicle conditions, grain receiver processes and other applicable conditions to ensure consistency for operators and businesses,” he said.

“We want to hear from farmers, operators, road managers and drivers about what works well and what doesn’t so that we can get the best outcome for industry.”

Submissions close on October 18. To access the paper visit www.nhvr.gov.au/consultation

For more information visit www.nhvr.gov.au/consultation/2019/10/18/grain-harvest-management-schemes-review