NHVR urges truckies to make safety a priority throughout National Safe Work Month

NHVR urges truckies to make safety a priority throughout National Safe Work Month, reminding the heavy vehicle sector that safety remains a collective responsibility during this dedicated National Safe Work Month period.

Transport Sector Employs Over Half a Million Australians

The NHVR's data indicates that Australia's road transport sector employs in excess of 556,000 workers, accounting for 5.3 percent of the country's overall workforce. These workers play a significant role in enhancing heavy vehicle safety both on and off the road.

Why National Safe Work Month Matters for Heavy Vehicle Operators

NHVR Acting Chief Executive Officer Ray Hassall said National Safe Work Month is a crucial time to contemplate the ways in which work practices affect individuals, organisations, and the community at large.

"The majority of transport and logistics companies are safety-focused, using tools such as training programs, hazard and risk reporting, and policies and procedures to ensure a safe and healthy work environment," Mr Hassall said.

"The NHVR is here to help industry with education and resources to meet their specific heavy vehicle safety requirements and comply with the Heavy Vehicle National Law.

Building Strong Safety Management Systems

"Having effective policies or procedures such as a Safety Management System for example helps companies manage their workplace health and safety risks to prioritise everyone's safety and wellbeing."

Robust management systems give transport operators a practical framework for meeting national standards while protecting driver health across daily operations. A well-documented management approach also supports consistent vehicle maintenance, clear reporting lines, and accountability at every level of a transport business.

Practical Steps for Transport Businesses

Transport companies looking to strengthen their safety management this month can consider:

• Reviewing existing hazard and risk reporting procedures against current heavy vehicle safety standards
• Updating Safety Management System documentation to reflect current fleet and workforce needs
• Providing refresher training for drivers on health and safety obligations under the Heavy Vehicle National Law
• Consulting safe work method statements for high-risk tasks involving heavy vehicle equipment

Organisations across other sectors are taking similar steps this month — Comcare urges all workplaces to participate in National Safe Work Month, reinforcing that safety management is a shared national priority beyond road transport alone.

Support Available Through the NHVR

Truckies and transport businesses seeking guidance on management practices, compliance, and heavy vehicle safety obligations can access dedicated NHVR resources built specifically for the sector. Smaller operators may also benefit from broader guidance, such as this overview of work health and safety fundamentals for small businesses, which complements heavy vehicle-specific management requirements.

For further updates on this year's initiatives, see our coverage of Week 2 of National Safe Work Month.

Read more here.