2012 ANNUAL REPORT

During April 2012 the Minister for Transport, Troy Buswell MLA, announced a new 'one stop shop' for heavy vehicle matters allowing transport operators to obtain permits for a single shift in one application with Main Roads. Implemented in three stages, these applications will be processed by the Heavy Vehicle Over-Size and Over-Mass Unit. Based at our Heavy Vehicle Operations Branch, the 'one stop shop' will provide the heavy vehicle industry with a centralised point of contact to process permit applications and approvals required to conduct over-size, over-mass movements. This will bring huge benefits to the heavy haulage industry by ending the need for transport operators to deal with up to four separate agencies in order to obtain an over-size load permit, book a traffic escort and get a referral to the power utilities for power line clearance.

Main Roads recently established the Heavy Vehicle Network Access Section to liaise directly with mine operators and resource companies to gain reliable insights into projected over-size and over-mass movements. As part of improving access for these vehicles, work to underground eight power lines along Great Northern Highway between Bindoon and Wubin has been completed. In addition we have also relaxed restrictions on heavy vehicle movements requiring line-lifting services in the metropolitan area from Monday to Thursday between 10am and 2pm. Further work will be done in this area to improve the processes associated with over-size movements and increase efficiencies.

In August 2012, an integrated application form will be launched, allowing heavy vehicle operators to submit permit applications and book traffic escorts at the same time. A Helpdesk will also be established to meet increased industry needs and expectations.

By the end of 2012, Main Roads will have collaborated with Western Power and Horizon Power schedulers to determine how line-lifting services will be managed by the Over-size and Over-mass Unit. The last stage of the 'one stop shop' will include the launch of an online application and payment system along with a new pilot vehicle operator's accreditation scheme.

The new Over-size and Over-mass Unit will assist industry and Government unlock the benefits to be reaped from our strong resources economy whilst ensuring people and freight move safely and efficiently across Western Australia's road network.