Queensland’s Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) has confirmed that certified Smart On-Board Mass (Smart OBM) systems are not currently available for hydraulic-suspension low-loader applications — and are not part of the current implementation arrangements for those vehicles.
The distinction matters for heavy-haul operators preparing for the state’s National Automated Access System (NAAS) and associated telematics changes. The Telematics Monitoring Application (TMA) rollout is proceeding, but it should not be confused with a present requirement to install a hydraulic Smart OBM system that has not been certified for the application.
In a written response to Which Way To Go on 9 October, a TMR spokesperson said:
“TMR’s current focus is the rollout of the Telematics Monitoring Application for eligible vehicles.”
“Certified Smart On-Board Mass systems are not currently available for the hydraulic-suspension low-loader application, and are not part of the current implementation arrangements for these vehicles.”
What operators need to know
In a separate written response dated 14 October, TMR advised that NAAS-eligible low-loader operators can enrol in the Queensland OSOM Load Carrying Vehicle Scheme from 16 November 2026 and have until 30 June 2028 to be enrolled with fully operational TMA devices installed.
TMR also advised that no commencement date has yet been set for NAAS-eligible load-platform vehicles, and that industry will receive at least 12 months’ notice before those operators are required to fit certified telematics equipment.
These dates should not be confused with the separate transition for Category 1, 2 and 3 Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) already enrolled in the Intelligent Access Program. TMR says those existing enrolments must transition to TMA by 31 December 2026.
Why the distinction matters
Smart OBM measures vehicle mass, while TMA is a telematics monitoring application. They serve different functions, and requirements depend on the vehicle category and scheme. Operators considering equipment purchases should confirm their exact vehicle eligibility and transition date before committing to a package.
For a fuller examination of the projected costs and the certified-equipment market, see WWTG’s earlier report: Compulsory NAAS telematics is coming — but part of the certified market does not yet exist.
Sources: TMR written responses to WWTG, 9 and 14 October 2026; TMR telematics transition guidance.