Grants to support projects that deliver tangible improvements in heavy vehicle safety while increasing compliance and providing safety benefits for Australia’s transport and logistics sector.
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What is the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative?
The Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI) is a grants program designed to fund projects that deliver tangible improvements in heavy vehicle safety across Australia. Since its launch in 2016, the program has invested over $41 million in 169 projects, making significant strides towards safer roads for all users.
Round 10 is now open, with approximately $4.2 million in funding available for projects to commence in the 2025–26 financial year and conclude within two years.
Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative level of support
- Minimum and Maximum Funding Amounts: There are no fixed minimum or maximum amounts per project; funding decisions are based on merit and alignment with the program’s objectives.
- Co-Contribution Requirements: While co-contributions are not mandatory, applicants must demonstrate in-kind or cash contributions to their projects. This support strengthens the application and showcases commitment to the project’s success.
Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative important dates
- Applications Close: 17 February 2025
- Eligibility Checks and Assessments: March – April 2025
- Successful Applicants Notified: August 2025
- Register your interest with GrantHelper
Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative objectives
The program focuses on projects aligned with three key themes:
- Innovation and Technology: Initiatives introducing advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, or data analytics, to address safety gaps.
- Safety Awareness: Campaigns and programs targeting behavioural change and improved safety practices in regional and rural areas.
- Evidence-Based Material Development: Creation and dissemination of educational resources or frameworks grounded in rigorous research.
Projects and expenditure eligible for Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative support
Funding for Round 10 is aimed at supporting initiatives that can create lasting positive impacts in the following areas:
1. Innovation and Technology: Projects that introduce new technological solutions or innovative approaches to existing safety gaps/challenges e.g. developing cutting edge tools, software or processes.
- Projects that propose novel and scalable technological solutions.
- Integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, or advanced data analytics.
- Clear demonstration of how innovation addresses a priority safety gap.
2. Safety Awareness: Initiatives aimed at improving safety standards or practices such as campaigns that target regional, rural and remote areas; educational programs, or tools designed to enhance safety in specific contexts.
- Initiatives that promote proactive safety practices and behavioral changes.
- Use of technology or media to reach diverse audiences effectively.
- Evidence of potential impact on safety outcomes and measurable improvement in safety practices.
3. Evidence-Based Material Development: Projects that develop, validate, or disseminate materials based on rigorous research and data. This includes developing frameworks and advisories with the aim to become mandated standards, guidelines, training modules, or educational resources grounded in theoretical evidence.
- Projects that use robust research methods to develop or refine materials.
- Clear methodology for evaluating and validating the effectiveness of the materials.
- Plans for dissemination and use of materials to ensure industry wide accessibility and impact.
Ineligible Expenditures:
- Trademarking registrations or commercial branding.
- Retrospective costs or expenses incurred before funding approval.
- General operational costs, including rent, electricity, or wages unrelated to the project.
Other Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative important details that you will need to know
Organisations eligible for Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative support
Applicants must:
- Be based in Australia with an Australian Business Number (ABN).
- Be registered for Goods and Services Tax (GST).
- Have an account with an Australian financial institution.
Ineligible applicants include individuals, unincorporated associations, and overseas entities.
Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative assessment criteria
Applications are assessed against five key criteria:
- Capacity and Sustainability: Demonstrate your organisation’s capability and capacity to deliver the project, including relevant experience, qualifications of key personnel, and project management plans.
- Evidence-Based Approach: Provide robust evidence supporting the need for your project, including data or case studies addressing the identified safety issue.
- Scope and Benefits: Highlight how your project aligns with national heavy vehicle safety priorities and delivers wide-reaching benefits, such as reducing crashes or injuries.
- Geographic and Stakeholder Reach: Detail the project’s location, its ability to provide local and national benefits, and your commitment to sharing outcomes across the industry.
- Budget and Timeline: Submit a detailed budget with in-kind or cash contributions, a clear timeline, and evidence of financial viability to complete the project within two years.
The Grants Assessment Panel also conducts a SWOT analysis to evaluate risks and opportunities for the proposed project.
How do I get the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative?
Applicants must:
- Read and understand the guidelines.
- Ensure eligibility for the funding. Applicants that do not meet all the eligibility criteria will not be considered.
- Demonstrate a strong alignment with the fund’s objectives.
- Provide complete information requirements.
Information to prepare for the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative application
Prepare the following:
- Detailed project rationale, objectives, and management plans.
- Evidence of stakeholder engagement and support.
- A comprehensive project budget with breakdowns of costs and funding sources.
- Risk management strategies to address potential project challenges.
See the guidelines for more details of information requirements.
Applying for the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative
Applications must be submitted via email to hvsi@nhvr.gov.au.
Register your interest with GrantHelper to explore your alignment with this grant and how we can assist you to increase your chances of success.
Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative resources
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