Queensland Class 3 Heavy Unloaded Trailer and Converter Dolly Dimension Exemption Notice 2024 (No.1)

Overview

The Queensland Class 3 Heavy Unloaded Trailer and Converter Dolly Dimension Exemption Notice 2024 (No.1) was enacted to address a specific issue related to the height dimension requirement for certain heavy vehicles within Queensland. This notice was introduced under section 117 of the Heavy Vehicle National Law as in force in each state and territory, demonstrating the intent to streamline and regulate heavy vehicle operations across the region. The policy objective appears to be the facilitation of efficient and safe transportation of goods within Queensland by providing a practical exemption for certain semitrailers when they are towed by road train rated prime movers. The notice specifically exempts class 3 heavy vehicles that are semitrailers from the prescribed height dimension requirement, allowing them to operate under certain conditions and on specified routes. This exemption aims to balance regulatory compliance with the practical needs of the industry, ensuring that vehicles can be used effectively while maintaining safety standards.

Scope and Application

The Queensland Class 3 Heavy Unloaded Trailer and Converter Dolly Dimension Exemption Notice 2024 (No.1) is a legislative instrument made under section 117 of the Heavy Vehicle National Law as in force in each state and territory (HVNL). This notice specifically applies to class 3 heavy vehicles in Queensland, which are semitrailers towed behind road train rated prime movers. The notice provides an exemption from the prescribed height dimension requirement in section 8(d) of Schedule 6 of the Heavy Vehicle (Mass, Dimension and Loading) National Regulation 2013 (National Regulation). It applies to combinations comprising a road train rated prime mover, at least one semitrailer attached to the prime mover, and up to two unloaded trailers, and up to two converter dollies carried on a trailer. The notice exempts these vehicles from the dimension limit specified in the National Regulation but imposes conditions such as a maximum operating height of 4.6 metres, securement of the dolly drawbar to a loaded trailer, and the use of warning flags and lights at night. The notice is limited to Queensland and specifies routes and areas where these vehicles can operate, detailed in Appendix 1. This exemption is effective from 10 February 2024 and will expire on 9 February 2029.

Key Provisions

The Queensland Class 3 Heavy Unloaded Trailer and Converter Dolly Dimension Exemption Notice 2024 (No.1) (the Notice) exempts certain class 3 heavy vehicles from the prescribed height dimension requirement in section 8(d) of Schedule 6 of the Heavy Vehicle (Mass, Dimension and Loading) National Regulation 2013. This exemption applies specifically to semitrailers towed behind road train rated prime movers in Queensland. The Notice is made under section 117 of the Heavy Vehicle National Law as in force in each state and territory (HVNL) and it commences on 10 February 2024 and expires on 9 February 2029. The Notice applies to combinations comprising a road train rated prime mover, at least one semitrailer attached to the prime mover, and up to two unloaded trailers and up to two converter dollies carried on a trailer. These vehicles can use specific routes and areas designated for Type 1 and Type 2 road trains, as outlined in Appendix 1. The Notice also stipulates that these vehicles can operate to a maximum height of 4.6 metres. Additionally, the drawbar of any dolly being carried must be secured to a trailer loaded above it to minimise rear overhang, and a warning flag must be attached to the extreme end of the dolly drawbar. If travelling at night, a rear facing delineator must also be attached to the drawbar, and a warning light must be attached to the rear of the vehicle in the combination that has contact with the road. The Notice imposes several obligations on the parties it governs. Vehicle operators must ensure that their vehicles comply with the specified height limit of 4.6 metres. They must also secure the drawbar of any dolly being carried to a loaded trailer above it, and attach a warning flag to the extreme end of the dolly drawbar. If operating at night, they must additionally attach a rear facing delineator to the drawbar and a warning light to the rear of the vehicle. Furthermore, operators must adhere to the designated routes and areas for Type 1 and Type 2 road trains as set out in Appendix 1. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in civil or criminal penalties. Breaches of the requirements outlined in the Notice may result in civil or criminal consequences. The maximum penalties for such breaches are not specified in the Notice itself, but they can be found in the HVNL or the National Regulation. Typically, these penalties may include fines, disqualification from driving, and potential prosecution for serious breaches. Operators must ensure compliance with all specified conditions to avoid these consequences.