The transport community have a few challenges which we aim to address through building our

• new Road Manager mapping application NHVR Maps!,
• by using OpenStreetMaps to build our up-to-date self-service mapping functionality, and
• upgrading the portal route planner so that it can snap routes to networks depending on vehicle class, type and configuration

This one-page pdf brochure outlines our architecture and approach here on the right -->

Next Generation Route Planner

The current route planner does not easily route trucks based on their vehicle class and type as the networks are not spatial. From November 2022, a new optional route planner (available to a small group of industry Champions) will start to intelligently route OSOM, B-Double and Road Train vehicles in Victoria. This will lead to better routes, with quicker turnaround times, permit consents sent to the right road managers and our aim is to make these routes contain options, in the future, such as 

1. Route on gazetted networks where possible.
2. Route based on quickest or most direct journey.
3. Route where permits not required.

NHVR Maps! currently being developed

Our aim in 2021 is to build the foundation of a mapping solution that will enable road managers across council and state and the NHVR to build and maintain consistent heavy vehicle networks more easily, quicker and with more consistency. The prototype we are building in 2021 ensures that the networks are more dynamic, responsive and can be updated whenever there is a need or requirement.  Our prototype will be built using a mapping base called OpenStreetMap, which is open-source, editable and updatable by the industry, by transport operators and truck drivers, by cafe owners, builders of laybys and truck stops and by councils and states. 

By using OpenStreetMap.org we will be building the most dynamic and rich Heavy Vehicle mapping tool in Australia which will benefit transport operators in 2022 by providing the following benefits:

• Provide instant alert features during times of natural disasters and emergencies 
• Ability to push routes (maps) to industry systems via in-cab or mobile devices
• Provide intelligent routing &dynamic mapping capabilities to optimise industry using the most suitable routes,
• Leading to a Heavy Vehicle Enforceable Network (HVEN) – a single source of an authoritative national transport network

Become an OpenStreetMap (OSM) Contributor

To prepare for a 2021 prototype we are asking operators and truck drivers to become OSM contributors, also known as editors. By becoming an OSM contributor you can ensure that all addresses for any pick-up or drop-off places are present in OpenStreetMap and this will help deliver the benefits outlined above.

If you want to know more or want to contribute read our instructions at the OSM Training Centre.

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Frequently Asked Questions – Next Generation Route Planner

You will be interested in our Next Generation Route Planner and changes being made to HV Permit Applications within the Portal.

How do I access the "new" Next Generation Route Planner?

For Nov 1 pilot participants will access the existing NHVR Route Planner and will be able to switch between the current and Next Generation Route Planner using the Switch button in thr Portal Route Planner screen(s)

How do I access the Route Planner?

The Pilot participants are all existing users of the Route Planner. The Route Planner is accessible through the Information Hub in the Portal or when creating an application.

How will I know I am using the new Route Planner (OSM version)?

The Pilot participants will see a switch button and there will be messaging on the screen showing that the Next Generation Route Planner is ON, to notify that they are using the Next Generation Route Planner.

What will I expect to see differently?

The map will be different as it is using OpenStreetMap as the base map so the look and feel will show display colours; also the satellite view will be different. However, it will still deliver routes based upon road weightings however it will now snap to a limited number of heavy vehicle networks.

What is actually changing for me?

If you are part of the pilot then you should be able to build better routes.

When is the change happening?

A few invited industry operators in Victoria will be joining our pilot phase from November 1 – over time more and more operators will be invited to use the Next Generation Route Planner for a full go live mid next year.

If the changes and improvements are incremental and we will build more functionality, how will I know when more changes happen and when can I expect them to happen? (i.e. which state is next and what networks are next)?

The NHVR Spatial team will keep you informed of updates and new information as the program progresses. You are also able to email us directly on spatial@NHVR.gov.au or use the instant chat window in the bottom right of the screen in the portal.

What features will I expect to see improved?

More direct routes and routes with fewer road manager permit consents required. Also, more accurate road information with the ability to add roads that are new or where conditions are changed and also less consents being sent to the incorrect road managers.

What networks will I be able to build a route upon in the first part of the pilot?

The B-Double, OSM and 32m Road Train Networks in Victoria

How do I trust the intelligent routing function?

We have experienced routing engineers with a specialty in building a world-class routing engine - they are going to spend the next 12 months listening to feedback from our industry and improving the routing engine.

How do I know it is snapping to a network?

In the Next Generation Route Planner you will be able to turn on the network layers within the layers icon on the top right of the map. Turn on the required network and use this to assess whether the route is aligning to available HV networks.

How do I know I will not be directed into a tunnel illegally if I am a truck with dangerous goods

OpenStreetMap contains turn restrictions on intersections within the map and our routing engine takes note of this when building routes. However, where turn restrictions are not yet mapped on OSM they may then not be reflected in the routes. Therefore, inform drivers that they are to obey all turn restrictions signposted when they are driving.

How do I know I will not hit a bridge if it is too low? Does the intelligent routing function pick up on this?

In the pilot version we will not have bridges and bridge heights mapped across the network so please read bridge height signs and obey them.

Will routing in the new Route Planner make my job easier?

We expect route planning to become easier and quicker for transport operators as more and more HV Networks are introduced to the next generation planner - routes will automatically snap to HV networks and this will mean a shorter turnaround time for permit applications Also, over time we will build up the network and road data within OpenStreetMap which will, in turn, improve the capabilities of the Route Planner.

Are there any training resources or tips?

Of course! The team is happy to spend some time with you on a one-on-one basis, or direct you to our training centre online, or you can find support and resources using the Intercom app within the solution itself. Also, chat to us through the chat feature and we can help you directly.

What do I do if I get stuck? How do I contact you? Who do I contact?

Use the chat instant within the Portal to contact us if you need help, support or resources. This will be manned at all times so please reach out or email spatial@nhvr.gov.au

How do I give feedback?

We would love to have your feedback, please email us on spatial@NHVR.gov.au or use Intercom within the solutions to provide your comments and feedback.

Benefits of the Spatial Program

Figure 3: How the National Spatial Program is building the infrastructure and technology to produce a self-service road manager tool, the next generation route planner and a mapping base that allows for real-time updates.