The NHVR will join police forces around the country this Easter period for a repeat of its successful Christmas operation, Operation Omega, and has labelled the new enforcement and compliance activity ‘Operation Omega II’
Easter will see Operation Omega II take place in New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania and focus on education and compliance surrounding fatigue for heavy vehicle drivers.
As at April 11, 2025, there had already been 23 fatal crashes involving heavy vehicles across Australia this calendar year.
With fatigue playing a large role in a high number of these incidents, NHVR COO Paul Salvati says Operation Omega II will continue to progress the proven, positive outcomes seen during Operation Omega.
“Every life lost on our roads is a tragedy and entirely preventable,” Salvati says.
“Unfortunately, fatigue continues to be one of the biggest issues for the heavy vehicle industry.
“We know from our compliance and education activities that fatigue offences occur at a higher rate during nighttime hours, even with less vehicles on the road, and fatigue-related crashes can have the deadliest outcomes for drivers.
“Managing the risk of fatigue extends beyond just drivers to employers and other parties in the supply chain.
“As part of the NHVR’s inform, educate and enforce approach, we want to work with all of industry to increase safety.
“This operation, which also ran during last year’s Christmas period, will see the NHVR continue our partnership with police to prevent fatigue-related incidents from occurring.”
Holiday periods like Easter and Christmas see busier, more congested roads. With heavy vehicle drivers facing tight deadlines amidst the more dangerous traffic conditions, Salvati says it’s more important than ever to be aware of the impacts of fatigue while driving.
“Busier roads mean it’s imperative for all of industry to be cautious and combat the serious risk fatigue can pose,” he says.
“Drivers simply cannot operate a heavy vehicle if they’re impaired by fatigue, even if within work and rest requirements.
“If a driver feels too tired to work, they’re a danger to themselves and other road users.”
Heavy vehicle drivers who feel pressured by their employer to drive while fatigued can call the NHVR’s Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting Hotline on 1800 931 785.
Read more ATN:
The eight key projects to building freight capacity
Scania confirmed as buyer for battling battery manufacturer
Linehaul efficiency key to new Australia Post Melbourne Airport site