Executive Summary
- The Victorian Government has committed to ending structural bridge assessment fees on 1 January 2026.
- The change in policy follows extensive industry engagement with the National Road Transport Association (NatRoad), Victorian Transport Association (VTA) and Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia (HVIA).
Confirmation response
NatRoad, Victorian Transport Association (VTA) and Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia (HVIA) have welcomed a significant breakthrough in the state of Victoria, with the Department of Transport and Planning confirming that Bridge Assessment fees will be eliminated from 1st January 2026.
NatRoad has commended the Victorian Government for recognising the importance of this reform and for working with industry to deliver meaningful change.
The removal of fees will coincide with the automation of the Heavy Vehicle Structural Assessment Permit System (HVSAPS). Up to 85 per cent of structural assessments for Class 1 and Class 2 vehicles will be automated by 1 January 2026. This modernisation will drastically reduce assessment and response times, reduce costs, and streamline operations for transport operators.
HVSAPS will remove the need for manual verification of bridge assessments, in most cases, allowing operators to receive faster approvals and reducing administrative burdens.
This is a great outcome for road transport operators who have been struggling with rising costs and a great acknowledgement by the Victorian Government to commit to reducing red tape and improving the efficiency and productivity of the transport industry.
NatRoad, VTA and HVIA will continue working closely with the Victorian Government to ensure a smooth transition to the new system and to advocate for further improvements that support the transport industry’s efficiency and sustainability.
