New RAV Warning Sign Options for Heavy Vehicles in WA
Following the Heavy Vehicle Road Signage Reference Group (HVRSRG) meeting on 18 October 2024, operators now have the option to use the new RAV warning signs.
Published: 12 November 2024, Updated: 13 November 2024
In response to concerns raised by the WA road transport industry regarding new Restricted Access Vehicle (RAV) warning signs requirements planned to come into effect on 1 January 2025, the Heavy Vehicle Road Signage Reference Group (HVRSRG) was formed.
The HVRSRG was chaired by Meredith Hammat, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Deputy Premier and the group met on 18 October 2024.
The HVRSRG included eight representatives from different areas of the transport industry, including organisations such as the Western Roads Federation, WA Livestock and Rural Transport Association, the Transport Workers Union (TWU), and various transport companies dealing with general freight, dangerous goods and fuel.
As an outcome of the 18 October meeting, it was determined:
- No Mandatory New Signs: Transport operators will not be required to replace the current “Long Vehicle” and “Road Train” signs with the new RAV warning signs.
- Sign Options for Long Vehicles: For vehicles longer than 22 meters, operators can choose between:
- The existing “Long Vehicle” and “Road Train” signs, or
- New graphic signs that show the length of the vehicle (e.g. 27.5m, 36.5m, or 53.5m).
The new RAV warning signs are optional but offer several benefits, including providing more information to other road users, helping them decide if it is safe to overtake the road train or long vehicle. The signs also educate drivers about the length of road trains using clear images and car graphics for comparison.
Operators can use the new signs instead of, or in addition to, the traditional “Road Train” or “Long Vehicle” signs. This flexibility allows operators to choose the best signage for their specific vehicle length and configuration.
For information about safe interactions with Road Trains, please visit Road Train Domain.
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