What is the IAP/Intelligent Access Program? (UPDATED JUNE 2020)

Infographic

Video Overview

What is the IAP?

The IAP (Intelligent Access Program) is a voluntary program that provides transport operators with enhanced access to Australia’s road network, in return for monitoring and compliance with specific access conditions by vehicle telematics solutions. It enables the monitoring of heavy vehicle operations against conditions of access set by road managers or regulators.

The IAP is administered by Transport Certification Australia, on behalf of the road transport authorities of the state, territory and Commonwealth governments.

Vehicles are monitored using the GPS system, with telematics services and an in-vehicle unit (IVU).

The IVU is supplied and operated by an IAP service provider, private sector companies certified by Transport Certification Australia to provide IAP services.  Data provided includes time, speed, location, and identity. Event reports can be automatically generated when a vehicle breaches specified conditions.

The full list of certified vendors as of May 2020 is –

• BlackBox Control
• Ctrack
• Netstar
• Teletrac Navman
• Transport Compliance Services (TCS)

Latest updates to this list can be found here.

Benefits of the IAP

Transport operators that participate in the IAP receive enhanced access to the road network, meaning they can carry heavier loads, do fewer trips, reduce operating costs and increase profitability. On the other hand, jurisdictions can have greater confidence vehicles are complying with the agreed access conditions. The IAP’s data collection system enables jurisdictions to optimise road management policies, and reduce compliance costs.

In simple terms, the IAP makes sure that the right vehicle is on the right road at the right time.

Higher Mass Limits (HML)

Participation in the Higher Mass Limits (HML) scheme enables a significant increase in the productivity of road freight vehicles. It allows certain heavy vehicles to access additional mass entitlements (carry heavier loads).  For roads in Qld, NSW and Vic, the vehicle must be registered in the IAP system.  In addition –

• If running HML on tri-axle groups they must be accredited under the Mass Management Module of the National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme (NHVAS), with an accreditation label fitted to the hauling unit
• Vehicles must be fitted with certified road friendly suspension
• Vehicles must be on an authorised HML route

Cranes and Overmass

IAP is a requirement for some special purpose vehicles, including cranes, in Victoria, NSW and Queensland.

Performance Based Standards Scheme

The Performance Based Standards Scheme is a NHVR program to encourage vehicle owners to propose innovative vehicle designs to improve efficiency and minimise impact on the roads and the environment.  These vehicles are normally only allowed to be used within specified roads and thus the NHVR may require IAP for monitoring purposes.

How to Register for the IAP

New Permits Under a New Scheme

If a road manager requires IAP as a condition of a new permit, the fleet manager will be notified by the NVHR. If they choose to proceed they must enroll in the program, and install a certified tracking system.

Permit Renewal

For renewal of permits that require IAP, the application must be made to the NHVR. For renewal of IAC (intelligent Access Condition), fleet managers should renew directly in the relevant state.

New Permits Under an Existing Scheme

If IAP is required for an existing scheme and the NHVR is aware of that, they will advise the fleet operator. The operator is then required to enroll in the program, and install a certified tracking system.

Cancellation

If the fleet manager decides to cancel their enrollment they must also cancel any permits that require IAP enrollment. It is illegal to operate a vehicle without compliance to the permit

Future of the IAP

The IAP was not a simple incremental step in the reform process. It was a complete paradigm shift in the way the regulator and the operator can do business.

When the IAP was originally designed, its primary purpose was to enable improved and enhanced access to the road network for transport operators. However, the IAP platform was also designed to support other regulatory and commercial uses, such as things that would improve safety, productivity, and provide a sustainable and secure road network for all users.

The IAP can support the current and future telematics business needs of jurisdictions, and provide a nationally agreed and industry compatible –

• Policy and regulatory framework
• Functional and technical platform
• Operational environment
• Commercial setting

The IAP brings jurisdictions, government departments, telematics providers, and the transport industry together as never before, establishing a collaborative environment to enhance Australia’s road industry and infrastructure.