In 2023, AFAC collaborated with the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) to develop the National Heavy Vehicle Emergency Services Work Diary and Record Keeping Exemption Notice 2023 (No. 1). This exemption notice provides relief from NHVR work diary and record keeping requirements for drivers and record keepers of vehicles operating for, or under the direction of, an emergency service.

The NHVR reviews exemption notices every 3 years. Accordingly, in late 2025, the NHVR, in consultation with the AFAC Fleet Technical Group, undertook a revision of the National Heavy Vehicle Emergency Services Work Diary and Record Keeping Exemption Notice 2023 (No.1).

AFAC is pleased to announce that the National Heavy Vehicle Emergency Services Work Diary and Record Keeping Exemption Notice 2026 (No.1) took effect on 1 February 2026.

The revised notice introduces improvements for consistent regulation, monitoring, and recording of fatigue-related heavy vehicle operations within Australian emergency service agencies.

Further information:

• National Heavy Vehicle Emergency Services Work Diary and Record Keeping Exemption Notice 2026 (No.1) - Federal Register of Legislation
• Heavy Vehicle National Law and Regulations | NHVR

AFAC members who require further information, please contact brett.michie@afac.com.au.