The demand for heavy vehicle pilots and escorts supporting oversize and overmass vehicle movements across Australia is increasing. Growth in major infrastructure projects, including the transport of large renewable energy components, is driving this demand and placing greater emphasis on safety, compliance and workforce capability.
This project supports the establishment of a nationally harmonised approach to training for heavy vehicle pilots and escorts. It aims to improve safety outcomes, strengthen regulatory compliance, and build workforce capability across all jurisdictions.
Currently, training quality, regulatory oversight and operational expectations vary significantly between states and territories. ISA is working with jurisdictional regulators, industry stakeholders and training providers to review and update existing training products, address critical skills gaps, and support a harmonised national approach. A key focus is strengthening capability in bridge supervision, where a nationally recognised skills gap has been identified.
This work supports broader national efforts to improve the National Access Framework for Heavy Vehicles (NAFHV), which is an Austroads-led initiative designed to deliver consistent, nationwide access requirements. The NAFHV aims to improve heavy vehicle safety, productivity and environmental outcomes by providing a coordinated approach for road managers to optimise network access for higher productivity vehicles while managing infrastructure constraints.
State and Territory certified pilot bodies have requested that ISA review existing Units of Competency and develop a new unit specific to bridge supervision to improve safety outcomes. The review and development process will account for jurisdictional differences, including traffic direction and permitted activities, and ensure training reflects legislative requirements in each state and territory.
