Fourteen initiatives have received funding from the latest round of the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s (NHVR) Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative.
Among the initiatives are an edu-tech app to help educate learner drivers about sharing roads safely with trucks, Australia’s first roadside effluent disposal facility for livestock carriers, and a video series promoting 10 top safety tips.
In announcing the $3.9 million funding program, Deputy Prime Minister and Infrastructure and Transport Minister Michael McCormack said it will continue to support industry-led heavy vehicle safety projects throughout Australia.
Mr McCormack said learner drivers using the DriveAbout app will soon receive comprehensive advice on sharing the road with trucks safely.
He said previous research has shown most road fatalities involving heavy vehicles are the fault of the other party – not the truck driver.
“As a country MP I know the challenges many young and new drivers can face with sharing the road with trucks,” he said.
“Sadly young drivers are significantly overrepresented in fatal crashes involving heavy vehicles.
“However, programs such as these are there to gear new drivers with the information and advice they need to improve and enhance safety outcomes.
“Teaching learner drivers how to safely share the road with trucks will have real impacts on ensuring our young people stay safe on the roads, especially in the regions.”
The DriveAbout app is currently available in English and eight Indigenous languages.
NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto said the safety projects played a crucial role in improving heavy vehicle safety and productivity.
“These new initiatives contribute collectively to better heavy vehicle industry safety, education, policy and practice in Australia,” Mr Petroccitto said.
“The NHVR is looking forward to working with the winning bids to ensure the projects deliver safety outcomes for all road users.”
Other safety initiatives to receive funding in 2018-19 include:
- A truck safety resource in WA and the NT
- The development of a brake calculator
- A #GetTruckWise trial campaign in Bendigo
- A series of workshops in WA and Alice Springs raising awareness about the Chain of Responsibility amongst transport customers
- Expansion of the National Safety Camera Network.
For more information visit www.nhvr.gov.au/hvsi