Victoria’s low- and -zero-emission heavy vehicle network (LZEHV) has been expanded to include new transport links across Melbourne, including key routes like the Burnley and Domain tunnels and the West Gate Bridge.
The additions will allow current and future heavy vehicle combinations featuring LZEHVs to access the route, as well as already pre-approved, higher axle mass limit vehicles.
The latest version of Victoria’s LZEHV network is available to view on the NHVR’s route planner. There is an access condition attached to the West Gate Bridge which reads: ‘conditionally approved – temporary access is permitted for this vehicle until 30 November 2025’. It is understood this condition is set in anticipation of the opening of the West Gate Tunnels.
It is expected access will switch to the tunnels once they are opened.
Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia has welcomed the amendments to the state’s LZEHV and called for them in response to the Victorian Freight Plan in June 2024.
It also called for the expansion of the network to accommodate LZEHVs of all types in response to the plan.
The completion of the West Gate Tunnel project will also bring about the introduction of no-truck zones in parts of Melbourne’s CBD due to the tunnels’ viable alternative to the West Gate Bridge.
The no-truck zones will be enforced by roadside cameras, with the state government saying industry consultation to ensure full understanding will commence in the near future.
The 24-hour no-truck zones will be in place on six key roads in Melbourne’s inner west, including Francis Street and Somerville Road in Yarraville, Buckley Street and Moore Street in Footscray, Blackshows Road in Altona North and Hudson Road in Spotswood.
Trucks will be able to apply for exemptions if they have local origins and destinations, and they will be allowed to undertake garbage collection, grocery deliveries and moving houses, but no “large port bound trucks” will be admitted.
Read more ATN:
NHVR releases new productivity tools via NHVR Go
Majority stake in IOR purchased by US investment firm
Hawk Logistics launches new partnership