The short answer
Victoria has expanded access for eligible Performance Based Standards (PBS) vehicles, with changes commencing on 18 September 2026. They include an additional 0.5 tonnes of total mass for qualifying Euro VI vehicles, more reference vehicle options on the Level 2B Cubic Network and six additional volumetric networks.
For an operator, the useful question is whether the complete trip is covered: the approved highway, the connecting road and the final approach to the customer. A PBS Vehicle Approval does not by itself authorise every road the vehicle needs to use.
What changed — and when?
The National Class 2 Performance Based Standards (High Productivity) Authorisation Notice 2026 (No.3), Gazette C2026G00600, replaced the previous notice. Although registered on 10 September, it commenced on 18 September 2026. Its stated expiry is 14 November 2026, so operators should check the current instrument rather than retain this article as an enduring access authority.
The NHVR identifies three principal Victorian access changes: the Euro VI total-mass allowance; B-double (4-4) and A-double (3-3-3) reference vehicles added to the Level 2B Cubic Network; and six new volumetric networks. It also reports a revised treatment of pavement-loading eligibility, while saying wide-single-tyre and split-axle vehicles remain excluded under this notice.
Who benefits?
The changes concern eligible Class 2 PBS vehicles operating in Victoria under this High Productivity notice. The combination must have a PBS Vehicle Approval and meet the notice, its Victorian schedule and the applicable network conditions.
They are relevant to operators matching the expanded reference vehicle options and to tanker operators using the volumetric arrangements. An ordinary B-double does not become a PBS vehicle simply because its axle layout resembles a diagram. Match the actual approval and combination to the applicable reference vehicle.
What does another 0.5 tonnes mean?
Half a tonne is 500 kg for the whole combination. It is not 500 kg for each trailer or axle group. The Victorian schedule provides a total-mass allowance for a Euro VI vehicle with a complying steer axle.
For example, a 68.5-tonne network limit can become 69.0 tonnes where that allowance applies and every other condition is satisfied. That arithmetic does not authorise an axle overload or increase a manufacturer’s rating.
Nor does it promise 500 kg more saleable freight. Payload is what remains after the vehicle’s own weight is accounted for. A heavier prime mover may use some or all of the additional allowance. Check the approved axle masses, the vehicle’s actual tare and how the load is distributed before changing a loading instruction.
A mass-transfer allowance is a separate matter: the NHVR’s Vehicle Approval guidance says any permitted transfer between steer and drive axles must be approved and recorded in the approval. Do not assume the network’s total-mass change supplies that approval.
Level 2B Cubic: more configurations, not their highest mass everywhere
The added B-double (4-4) reference vehicle has quad-axle groups on both trailers. The A-double (3-3-3) description identifies tri-axle groups on its trailers and converter dolly. The full NHVR reference diagrams and requirements still matter, including axle spacing.
The Level 2B Cubic Network has a 30-metre length limit and a 68.5-tonne base mass limit. Adding a reference vehicle to that network does not let it run there at the higher mass associated with a different network. Choose the correct network for both the combination and its intended operating mass.
Separate Level 3A transition: check the current network before dispatch
The current NHVR Operator’s Guide also clarifies a separate Victorian transition for A-doubles with tri-axle dollies. Reference vehicles previously associated with the Level 2B 85.5-tonne General Freight and Volumetric networks are being reclassified to Level 3A 91.0-tonne networks. However, the NHVR says the move to the Level 3A networks — including the increased mass and length limits — is still pending final road-manager consents.
Until those consents are finalised, the affected vehicles continue to operate under the Level 2B 85.5-tonne General Freight/Volumetric networks. Operators should therefore use the current NHVR guide and network map rather than assume the 91.0-tonne Level 3A access is already available end to end.
What the six volumetric networks mean
The NHVR confirms six new volumetric networks. These provide additional named access arrangements for eligible volumetric reference vehicles; they do not create general access for all freight vehicles.
Under the Victorian schedule, a volumetric reference vehicle uses purpose-built tankers carrying liquids or gases in bulk. Separate bottles, cylinders or tanks loaded onto a trailer do not meet that definition. A general freight vehicle that fills its available space before reaching its mass limit is therefore not automatically eligible for a volumetric network.
Check each relevant entry in the current network table and map. The table specifies the reference vehicle, maximum length and mass for the named network. Those limits and the mapped roads must be read together.
Where the network stops — and permits may still be needed
Permit-free travel under the notice ends where the applicable authorisation ends. An approved main road does not establish approval for every adjoining local road, bridge or customer access route.
The NHVR guide lists non-participating road managers whose local roads are not authorised by this notice and says operators need to apply for a permit for those roads. Conditions can also restrict a mapped route. Where the guide and map impose different requirements, the more restrictive requirement applies.
For an off-network leg or a combination outside the notice’s conditions, establish whether another valid access authority applies or an NHVR permit is required before travelling. An application is not permission to operate, and a permit is not guaranteed.
Operational check before loading or dispatch
- Identify the complete combination and its PBS approval, including axle and bridge requirements.
- Choose the network matching its configuration, length and intended mass.
- Check the whole route on the current NHVR National Network Map, including local connections, restrictions and the destination approach.
- Read the current notice and guide alongside the map; check traffic alerts and any required permit conditions.
- Give the driver the route and conditions that actually apply to this trip.
The Gazette names the NHVR National Network Map as the publication point for the Victorian networks. Use the map and network links in the current NHVR operator’s guide. Victoria’s PBS and HPFV network page is another official starting point.
Legal foundation and jurisdiction
This article concerns Victoria’s Schedule 3 under the national High Productivity notice. The instrument is an access authorisation under section 138 of the Heavy Vehicle National Law. It is not a blanket exemption from mass and dimension requirements. The vehicle’s approval, notice and applicable road conditions continue to govern the trip.
FAQs
Can every Euro VI truck add 500 kg?
No. This story concerns qualifying vehicles under the PBS notice. The vehicle approval and applicable access conditions must support the proposed operation.
Does an A-double’s higher approved mass apply on the Cubic Network?
Not automatically. A vehicle’s approval and the network’s limit are separate checks; the more restrictive applicable requirement controls.
Does being on the map remove every permit requirement?
No. Check the correct network layer, the entire route and all conditions. Unauthorised local-road connections may still require a permit.
Related WWTG coverage
For the distinction between vehicle standards and road access, read WWTG’s PBS pavement-rule explainer. Our accreditation and access coverage explains why approval conditions need to remain current.
What remains to report
The confirmed change is the published access framework. WWTG may separately ask how much useful end-to-end access it delivers, which local connections still need permits and how operators are being told about the November expiry. This article makes no claim about why any individual road manager has or has not supported the notice.