A two-year trial of a Mass Exemption Notice for Zero Emission Heavy Vehicles in New South Wales will become a permanent fixture from May 27.
Under the Notice, eligible vehicles are allowed up to 8 tonnes on a single steer axle and up to 18.5 tonnes on the tandem drive axle, where the overall gross vehicle mass does not exceed 26 tonnes.
All zero emission heavy vehicles operating under Notice must now be enrolled in the Telematics Monitoring Application with a Smart On-Board Mass system through Transport Certification Australia.
This change in telematics requirements simplifies arrangements by establishing a single requirement for all zero emission heavy vehicles in NSW, aligned with Queensland and Victoria.
The trial was introduced in 2024 as part of the NSW Government’s Towards Net Zero Emissions Freight Policy, which aims to reduce emissions across the road and rail freight transport sector.
There is still some work to be done in regard first and last mile journeys for zero emissions vehicles with permits required in some cases for road access to particular areas.
Transport for NSW says it is working with councils and third-party asset owners to further extend access, and some Councils are already participating.
Transport for NSW Executive Director Freight, Scott Greenow, says making the trial permanent is a win for freight in the state.
“This is a win for zero emission heavy vehicle drivers, as well as the environment,” Greenow says.
“The updated telematics requirements will improve the data available over time, helping us to shape a more effective long-term approach to managing these vehicles on the network.
“Improved utilisation data can help expand access for zero-emissions vehicles and inform infrastructure investment and maintenance decisions.
“Previously, owners who were trying to help the environment by switching to zero emission heavy vehicles lacked certainty of using their vehicles at commercially viable masses under the pilot.
“By making this Notice permanent, eligible zero emission heavy vehicle operators are back on a level playing field with their diesel counterparts, while continuing to enjoy the financial and environmental benefits of their new technology.”