Australia’s national heavy vehicle regulator has launched a nationwide compliance blitz targeting driver fatigue, after nearly 5,000 fatigue-related breaches were detected last year.
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has commenced Operation Ambit, a national enforcement operation focusing on heavy vehicle drivers who take unsafe risks with work and rest requirements.
The operation will run across multiple jurisdictions in the coming weeks, with compliance officers conducting roadside intercepts and inspections as part of the coordinated safety effort.
Nearly 5,000 fatigue breaches detected last year
NHVR Chief Operations Officer Paul Salvati said fatigue remains one of the most significant risk factors contributing to heavy vehicle crashes in Australia.
NHVR Chief Operations Officer Paul Salvati. Source: LinkedIn
“Fatigue is one of the biggest risks for heavy vehicle crashes across Australia,” Salvati said.
“Australia’s heavy vehicle industry is vital to our nation, but it is also demanding, high-stakes work which requires skill, focus and resilience every day.
“That’s why managing fatigue isn’t optional – and staying rested and vigilant is critical. Every alert driver helps keep our roads, industry and communities moving safely.”
The regulator said a similar national compliance operation conducted last year revealed record levels of non-compliance among drivers.
“The number of fatigue-related breaches detected was the highest we’ve ever recorded during a national operation,” Salvati said.
“Almost 5,000 fatigue offences were found by the NHVR in 2025 alone – equivalent to nearly 100 drivers every week taking unsafe risks that endanger themselves and other road users.
“We understand heavy vehicle driving is a challenging task, and some drivers may face pressures to meet tight deadlines, but safety must always come first.
“That’s why the NHVR also operates a Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting Line, where drivers can report inadequate fatigue management, falsified records, unrealistic schedules, or pressure to drive.”
National enforcement and compliance checks
During Operation Ambit, NHVR Safety and Compliance Officers will carry out vehicle intercepts, including vehicle inspections, work diary checks, and licence and registration checks.
In some jurisdictions, police will partner with the regulator as part of a coordinated national enforcement effort.
“Collaboration with police and other regulatory partners is key to using our resources effectively and keeping roads safer,” Salvati said.
The NHVR also reminded drivers that even when operating within legal work and rest limits, they should never drive if they feel tired or show signs of fatigue.
In 2025, fatigue was among the top offences for heavy vehicle operators nationwide, accounting for more than 23% of all detected breaches.
Drivers or industry participants can report concerns via the NHVR’s Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting Hotline on 1800 931 785 or through the NHVR website.