From 1 August 2026, significant reforms to the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) have come into effect across New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and the ACT.
The reforms introduce mandatory Safety Management Systems (SMS), a new National Audit Standard and an increased focus on the governance and oversight of transport risks.
For businesses operating across the heavy vehicle supply chain, the reforms reinforce a broader shift towards organisational responsibility, executive accountability and proactive risk management.
What you need to know about the HVNL
The 2026 reforms increase the focus on organisational systems, governance and due diligence. Understanding how insurance may respond when regulatory investigations, prosecutions or enforceable undertakings arise is increasingly important.
In the full article, we cover:
- What the 2026 HVNL reforms mean for businesses across the heavy vehicle supply chain
- How DUAL's position on HVNL cover has evolved
- What Statutory Liability cover may respond to, including investigations, prosecutions and eligible pecuniary penalties
- How Enforceable Undertaking Expenses can help businesses respond to regulatory requirements
- HVNL claims scenarios
Read the full HVNL article 
Any product information discussed in this blog is subject to the terms and conditions of the policy, eligibility criteria, any additional premium for optional cover, limitations and exclusions.
Copyright © 2026 DUAL Australia Pty Ltd (ABN 16 107 553 257, AFSL 280193). All rights reserved.
The information contained in this blog is intended for licensed insurance brokers and other authorised intermediaries only. DUAL issues insurances on behalf of Certain Underwriters at Lloyd’s of London and/or Allianz Australia Insurance Limited, acting as their agent. The information is of a general nature and does not take into account the objectives, financial situation or needs of any person. It is intended for the use of professional intermediaries who are expected to consider whether it is appropriate for their clients. Before recommending or offering any insurance product, intermediaries should read the policy wording, relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and Target Market Determination (TMD) and assess whether the product is suitable for their client’s circumstances. These are available on request or via our website at DUAL Australia.