Fatigue management (Standard, BFM and AFM)

Fatigue management under the Heavy Vehicle National Law sets maximum work and minimum rest times for drivers of fatigue-regulated heavy vehicles, with three levels: Standard hours, Basic Fatigue Management and Advanced Fatigue Management.

Standard hours apply by default and need no accreditation. Basic Fatigue Management (BFM) and Advanced Fatigue Management (AFM) allow more flexible hours in exchange for NHVAS accreditation and stronger systems, records and audits.

Fatigue applies to vehicles over 12 tonnes GVM (and buses over 4.5 tonnes with more than 12 seats). Whatever the level, the operator must be able to show work and rest records and that breaches are picked up and acted on. The fatigue and work diaries guide covers the practical duties.

Last updated 10 July 2026. General information, not tax or legal advice.