Introducing Smart OBM and Telematics Monitoring Platform in Victoria

The Victorian Government has extended the transition period for the introduction of smart on-board mass (OBM) monitoring for certain Performance Based Standards (PBS) vehicles.

PBS vehicles with a Gross Combination Mass (GCM) in excess of 68.5t and quad-axle semi-trailers in excess of 46.0t GCM will require smart OBM by 30 June 2023.

Beyond this date, subject vehicles without smart OBM will be limited to a GCM of 68.5t for multi-trailer combinations and 46.0t GCM for semi-trailers.

The deadline follows more than two years of extensions and industry consultation to enable operators of eligible vehicles time to adjust to the new requirements.

The introduction of smart OBM will broaden access to the network, deliver easier first-and-last-kilometre approval and reduce the need for permits, as well as provide greater protection for Victoria’s roads and bridges.

As part of the changes, operators of eligible combinations are also required to choose a telematics system to complement smart OBM. These systems are supplied to the industry by an Application Service Provider (ASP).

What is smart OBM?

Smart OBM systems generate mass data from vehicles in a standardised format which is collected by an Application Service Provider (ASP). ASPs are certified to supply these services through the National Telematics Framework, a government- endorsed digital business platform.

Information on approved suppliers can be found at https//tca.gov.au/smart-obm-systems/#smart-obm-table.

How do I sign up to smart OBM?

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator oversees enrolment for smart OBM and TMA, The form can be found here.

Why has the deadline been extended to June 2023?

The Victorian Government announced the mandatory requirement for smart OBM telematics at the Victorian Transport Association State Conference in March 2021. Operators originally had until 1 November 2021 to install type-approved smart OBM.

Due to supply chain challenges, extensions of up to 20 months were granted. As at January 2023, more than 430 vehicles and 91 operators have enrolled in smart OBM.

The new deadline follows extensive consultation with smart OBM suppliers and ASPs.

What’s required by 30 June 2023?

Operators of subject vehicles must perform the following tasks by 30 June, 2023.

• Purchase and install smart OBM.
• Enrol in either IAP or TMA and sign the data-sharing consent agreement supplied by your ASP.
• Ensure that your ASP has paired your device with your chosen smart OBM system.
• Received a certificate of enrolment from your ASP.

What if I can’t meet the deadline?

You will be restricted to 68.5t GCM on the PBS multi-trailer combinations network and 46.0t GCM on the PBS quad-axle semi-trailer network.

What if I already have an OBM system?

Check with your OBM supplier to see whether your existing OBM can be upgraded to smart OBM.

Why the move to smart OBM?

Smart OBM will give road managers better data on how the network is being used by HPFV.

By more easily identifying those bridges and structures doing the most work, smart OBM will aid in making more targeted investment decisions about the road network.

Smart OBM will also be an important driver of the decision to transition heavy vehicles networks from pre- approved to a new gazette notice.

This will allow eligible heavy vehicle combinations to operate on the network without the need for a permit.

The rollout of smart OBM is also critical to Victoria’s plans to expand access for configurations like B-triples and A-B triples.

Smart OBM availability

Four major suppliers have type-approved OBM systems. Other OBM suppliers are progressing the type-approval process.

Do I need to calibrate smart OBM?

OBM systems must be kept calibrated to meet access conditions. Your supplier will have a regular calibration schedule and can help you with keeping your OBM system calibrated.

Transport operators can also calibrate their own equipment provided they adhere to the manufacturer’s requirements.

What is TMA?

To coincide with the move to smart OBM, operators of HPFV and mobile cranes are being offered an alternative to IAP.

TMA is an application that monitors the location, time and identity of vehicles on the network. HPFV operators upgrading to TMA get the optional mass- monitoring feature which links to smart OBM.

What if I want to stick with IAP?

The change from IAP to TMA is entirely optional. Permitted vehicles will be allowed access to the gazetted network so long as they have Smart OBM linked to either application.

Some operators will prefer IAP and the application will remain an option for the foreseeable future.

Further information on TMA and Smart OBM systems can be found on the TCA website.

What if I still have questions?

Further enquiries can be directed to [email protected]