Chain of Responsibility 2026 Master Code
The new CoR Master Code has now been released by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR).
This is not simply a document update - it changes the benchmark for what “reasonable steps” looks like under the Heavy Vehicle National Law.
Achieve compliance, exceed standards, and become ACASA accredited.
The 2026 CoR Master Code
Who’s impacted?
The newly-released Chain of Responsibility Master Code released by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) came into effect across Australia in February 2026. This new code is not an updated document, rather it builds significantly, expanding into 548 individual areas of compliance in 45 categories directly relating to the operation and engagement of heavy vehicles and associated activities, changing the benchmark for what “reasonable steps” look like under Heavy Vehicle National Law.
If your business or organisation undertake any of the following, your current CoR Management System now requires review against the Master Code standard:
Operates heavy vehicles
Engages transport contractors
Manages waste, civil works, plant, quarry or infrastructure operations
Influences scheduling, loading, procurement or delivery expectation
Even if you have policies and procedures in place, you are required to ensure they comply with the standards set by the new Master Code.
Risks to my organisation and to myself
Failure to comply with the standards set by the new Master Code can result in fines exceeding $3 million for corporations for reckless conduct, as well as individual fines and potential imprisonment for significant failures leading to harm.
How LATUS can help.
Latus specialises in reviewing and strengthening existing CoR systems so they:
Align with the Master Code framework
Reflect regulator enforcement logic
Demonstrate clear, auditable “reasonable steps”
Close exposure gaps in contractor management
Integrate with existing WHS and risk systems
Following review, we can position your business for formal alignment and accreditation under the ACASA CoR Master Code Standards - providing independent validation that your systems meet contemporary compliance expectations.
This is not about rewriting documents.
It is about ensuring:
Your controls are defensible
Your oversight of contractors is demonstrable
Your executive officers are protected
Your Council can confidently evidence due diligence