NSW Roads and Freight Minister Duncan Gay confirmed the distance limitations would be lifted, and he said it would boost productivity.

“A simple change, like allowing farm contractors to move agricultural machinery without the unnecessary red tape, will make it easier for our farmers – who are the backbone of the state’s economy,” Gay said.

Oversize and overmass agricultural vehicles and machinery will still be required to operate under an access notice or obtain an access permit to be able to travel on the NSW road network, which includes travel curfews and restrictions to mitigate their impact on other road users and road infrastructure.

NSW Farmers Business, Economics and Trade Committee chairman Peter Wilson said Gay had first promised to resolve the issue when he spoke at the association’s Annual Conference in July.

“The restrictions that were being placed on the movement of agricultural machinery were frankly nonsensical, so it’s pleasing that the NSW Government has fixed this,” Wilson said.

“There is plenty of work to be done – the regulation of road access is one of the greatest impediments on farm businesses in NSW.

“We have been seeking engagement on a proposal to improve road access regulations for oversize agricultural vehicles. We hope that Roads and Maritime Services will heed that call.”

Wilson said farmers needed regulation that allowed them to perform business safely and efficiently. 

“They don’t need arbitrary regulations that add to the cost of doing business,” Wilson said.

“The Minister’s commitment to develop policies which support the movement of agricultural equipment is very welcome. We will continue to work together to achieve tangible improvements for farm businesses.”