Higher mass limits
Queensland has a policy that allows vehicles fitted with road-friendly suspension to carry more freight on routes that are capable of accepting higher masses.
Higher mass limits (HML) were first introduced to Queensland on 2 July 1999. Initially, the scheme was limited to the former national highway system and connecting 23-metre and 25-metre B-double routes within a radial distance of 500 metres.
In December 2002, the Queensland Government introduced a policy framework that allowed extensions based upon agreement from the road asset owner.
The Intelligent Access Program (IAP) is now available for vehicles operating at higher mass limits. This national program provides heavy vehicles with improved access to the Australian road network in return for monitoring compliance with specific access conditions. This is done by installing vehicle telematics in participating vehicles which includes a combination of global positioning systems, in-vehicle sensors, and additional communication technology. From 1 July 2009, enrolment in the Intelligent Access Program will become mandatory for operators wishing to operate or continue to operate at higher mass limits.
Enrol in the Intelligent Access Program for higher mass limits vehicles. This is a quick, easy and free online enrolment facility.
For more information please refer to:Expansion of the higher mass limits network
The Queensland and Commonwealth Governments have entered into a Bilateral Infrastructure Agreement (BIFA) in accordance with the Auslink program. The agreement encourages a staged rollout of extensions to the existing higher-mass-limit network in conjunction with additional responsibilities for road transport operators.
On 1 October 2006, the Queensland Government expanded the number of higher-mass-limit approved routes to meet its obligations under the Australian Government's Auslink program.
Queensland's current policy for requesting extensions will still apply while Bilateral Infrastructure Agreement obligations for both the Queensland Government and road freight industry are met. Higher-mass-limit routes are approved only after an agreement to use the road has been obtained from the road owner, and the proposal has been endorsed by the Department of Transport and Main Roads.
A more detailed explanation of the policy is provided in the higher mass limits information bulletin (updated August 2008) (PDF**, 94KB).Also see:
- The Department of Transport and Main Roads produces a number of maps that can assist operators in identifying relationships between roads, railways, local authority areas, towns and Main Roads regions. Department regional contacts can also assist in identifying the asset owners of particular roads or other assets (such as bridges or culverts).
- Guideline for higher mass limits for vehicles with road friendly suspensions Form 10 — version 5 (new version August 2008) (PDF**, 55KB)
- Routes approved for higher mass limits.
- Higher Mass Limits — Route Extension Application form (F4166).
- Intelligent Access Program enrolment available also by completing the Higher Mass Limits (HML) Intelligent Access Program (IAP) Enrolment Application form (F4573).
- Axle Mass Limits in Queensland Comparison Table (PDF**, 234KB)
**While this department has taken every possible precaution with the creation of these files, they are downloaded and used at your own risk. Adobe Reader is needed to open and print Portable Document Format (PDF) files and is free to download from http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html. Various tools to enable access to these files for people using a screen reader can be found at http://access.adobe.com. Further information is available from the "Help with downloading, reading and printing PDF".
Last updated 31 August 2009
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