Impacts of heavy vehicle reform

Heavy vehicle transport is vital to Australia’s economy, but road freight physical productivity has stalled for more than a decade. 

This interim report set out the PC’s draft findings, recommendations and areas in which additional information was sought. It finds that better road access for high productivity and heavy zero emissions vehicles – supported by reforms such as automated access approvals, clearer planning rules for charging infrastructure, and updated curfew and licensing settings – could help restart productivity growth while improving emissions outcomes.

Submissions were due by 5 May 2026.

Individuals and organisations were invited to provide a submission to this study.

The PC published a paper to assist people to prepare a submission. The paper set out some of the issues and questions that the PC has identified as relevant at the early stage of the inquiry.

Submission writers are encouraged to identify issues relevant to this study and suggest ways forward. The PC appreciates evidence in support of any views, such as data, research reports and case studies.

Initial submissions were due by 19 December 2025.

The PC provided analysis and modelling on the impacts of a heavy vehicle productivity reform package, under the National Competition Policy. The reform package aims to increase transport productivity for all heavy vehicles and support the uptake of heavy zero emissions vehicles.