Quick answer: Since 1 August 2026, the NHVR can no longer grant new NHVAS accreditation, and the Heavy Vehicle Accreditation (HVA) scheme is progressively replacing it. Existing NHVAS accreditation generally remains valid until its expiry date, subject to the applicable transition arrangements. Operators should review their current accreditation, expiry dates and available options, including any eligible extension, transition to HVA or exit from accreditation where it is no longer required. The appropriate pathway depends on the operator's circumstances and the NHVR's requirements. HVA puts more weight on a whole-of-business safety management system, so the best first step is a gap assessment well before your expiry date.
If your business holds NHVAS accreditation for mass, maintenance or fatigue management, the rules you were accredited under are changing. The amended Heavy Vehicle National Law took effect on 1 August 2026, and with it came a new accreditation scheme. The good news is that nobody has to switch overnight. The less good news is that the new scheme asks for more than most NHVAS manuals currently show.
What has changed
The HVA scheme was introduced through the Heavy Vehicle National Law Amendment Bill 2025. From 1 August 2026, the NHVR no longer has authority to grant new NHVAS accreditation, and HVA applications are made through NHVR Go.
The two schemes run side by side during a transition period of up to three years, which matches the maximum length of an accreditation period. An operator can only be accredited under one scheme at a time.
Do you need to move to HVA straight away?
No. Existing NHVAS operators can keep operating under NHVAS until their accreditation expires. Depending on your expiry date and what you need, the NHVR's transition options include:
- Maintaining existing NHVAS accreditation. Operators who completed the applicable renewal requirements within the NHVR's transition deadlines may continue operating under their renewed NHVAS accreditation until its expiry, subject to the scheme requirements. The relevant transition renewal deadlines have passed, so operators should not assume that a new NHVAS renewal application remains available.
- Requesting an extension. Eligible operators may be able to request an extension of their existing NHVAS accreditation for up to 12 months, subject to the NHVR's eligibility criteria and approval. Applications must be made before the relevant accreditation expires, and extensions are subject to the maximum accreditation period permitted under the transitional arrangements. Operators should confirm their eligibility directly with the NHVR.
- Transitioning to HVA. You can move to HVA at any time now that the new law is in effect, or when your NHVAS accreditation expires.
- Exiting accreditation. If you no longer rely on accreditation for access or concessions, you can exit.
The NHVR is also encouraging operators to align their modules to one common expiry date before transitioning. Because the right option depends on your own dates and concessions, confirm them with the NHVR (13 NHVR) before committing to a plan.
What is different about HVA
HVA is still voluntary, but some access arrangements and operating concessions require it, including mass management for HML, PBS, and certain notices and permit schemes. It uses a tiered framework of General Safety Accreditation (GSA) and Alternative Compliance Accreditation (ACA).
Understanding GSA and ACA
General Safety Accreditation (GSA) focuses on the operator's broader safety management arrangements, while Alternative Compliance Accreditation (ACA) addresses specific operational requirements and concessions.
The accreditation components required will depend on the operator's activities, existing arrangements and the access or compliance concessions being sought. Not every operator will require the same combination of accreditation components.
Before developing or upgrading a safety management system, operators should establish which accreditation pathway applies to their business.
The biggest shift is the whole-of-business approach. Rather than demonstrating a module in isolation, operators need a safety management system that shows how transport safety is managed across the business, from scheduling and fatigue to maintenance, loading and contractor arrangements. The requirements are set out in the Ministerial Guidelines for Heavy Vehicle Accreditation 2026.
How to prepare
Whichever option you choose, the work is the same: show that your system works in practice, not just on paper. A practical order of work:
- Confirm the expiry date for each NHVAS module you hold, and whether you are eligible for an extension.
- List the concessions and access arrangements your operation relies on, so you know which accreditation you actually need.
- Run a gap assessment of your current safety management system against the HVA requirements.
- Reuse what already works. Existing NHVAS procedures, records and audit history are often a good starting point.
- Fix the gaps, and keep evidence: registers, records of checks, corrective actions and management review.
- Book an HVA approved auditor early. The NHVR has flagged audit demand during the transition.
Our Heavy Vehicle Compliance page explains how we support HVA readiness, from transition scoping to a pre-audit internal review.
Accreditation and Chain of Responsibility
Accreditation does not replace your primary duty under Chain of Responsibility. Every party in the chain still has to ensure the safety of their transport activities, so far as is reasonably practicable. A strong HVA system helps you show that, but it is worth checking both together. Our article on when a business needs a Chain of Responsibility audit covers the CoR side, and our guide for Brisbane transport operators explains who is in the chain.
Preparing for the transition to HVA?
Whether your NHVAS accreditation is approaching expiry or you're considering HVA accreditation for the first time, understanding your requirements early can help avoid unnecessary costs and disruption.
Overwatch Safety Solutions provides HVA transition advice, accreditation readiness assessments, safety management system development and internal gap assessments.
We'll review your existing arrangements, identify what can be retained and recommend the work required to prepare for your chosen accreditation pathway.
Contact Overwatch Safety Solutions to discuss an HVA readiness assessment.
Accreditation applications and decisions remain the responsibility of the NHVR.
Frequently asked questions
Is HVA accreditation compulsory?
No. HVA is a voluntary scheme, but some access arrangements and operating concessions, such as mass management for HML and PBS, require accreditation.
Can we hold NHVAS and HVA accreditation at the same time?
No. The two schemes run side by side during the transition, but an operator can only be accredited under one scheme at a time.
Will our existing NHVAS documents be wasted?
Not necessarily. Many existing procedures and records can be reused. A gap assessment shows what needs updating or strengthening to meet the HVA requirements.
Sources: NHVR, NHVAS transition to HVA scheme; NHVR, NHVAS transition options flowchart (maintain deadline 17 July 2026; extensions up to one year, applied for before expiry); NHVR, Changes to accreditation (GSA and ACA); NHVR, About the HVA scheme; NHVR, Apply for and maintain HVA.
Last reviewed: November 2026.