Deakin University’s Truckwise Roadshow has secured funding through the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s (NHVR) Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI), backed by the Australian Government.
The initiative aims to enhance road safety by educating young drivers about heavy vehicle interactions using cutting-edge virtual reality (VR) technology, the university said in a news release.
Professor Ben Horan, project lead and Deakin University’s Head of the School of Engineering, highlighted the innovative approach of the program.
“The Roadshow aims to increase awareness of safety around heavy vehicles through virtual reality experiences, allowing young drivers to learn in ways not achievable in the real world,” said Professor Horan.
Building on the success of its initial launch in 2022, the Roadshow will continue for the next two years, delivering interactive safety education to young road users across Australia.
NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto OAM stated that Deakin University is among 16 recipients awarded funding from a $3.9 million allocation for HVSI projects.
“The delivery of Deakin University’s project will contribute towards making Australia’s roads safer for all users,” said Petroccitto.
“Each project is designed to improve heavy vehicle safety, such as heavy vehicle driver education training technologies, first aid safety training, and recruitment campaigns to entice young people into a career in trucking.”
For more information on HVSI projects, visit www.nhvr.gov.au/hvsi.
