The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has confirmed upcoming changes to the Directional Stability Under Braking (DSUB) standard under the Performance Based Standards (PBS) scheme.
The updated braking requirements will come into effect on July 1, 2026 and are aimed at improving safety outcomes through the wider use of modern braking and stability technology.
Who the Changes Apply To
The revised DSUB standard will apply to:
- Newly built PBS vehicles, and
- Existing in-service vehicles entering the PBS scheme for the first time
Vehicles that were already PBS-approved before July 1, 2026 will generally not be affected. The only exception is limited connectivity requirements when those vehicles operate in combinations with DSUB-compliant vehicles.
Importantly, the NHVR has confirmed that the new braking standard will not apply if an existing PBS-approved vehicle is re-certified or added to a new or existing PBS Vehicle Approval after July 1, 2026.
What’s Changing Under the Revised DSUB Standard
The updated standard introduces stricter braking and stability requirements designed to reduce loss-of-control risks during heavy braking events.
Key changes include:
- First-time PBS trailers and dollies must comply with the revised DSUB standard
- Trailer Electronic Braking Systems (EBS) will be required, including full roll stability functionality
- Load Proportioning Valves (LPVs) will no longer be permitted under the revised standard
According to the NHVR, these changes are intended to modernise PBS braking requirements and improve directional stability and overall vehicle control during braking.
Why This Matters
For operators entering PBS for the first time, these changes will influence:
- Vehicle specification decisions
- Trailer and dolly design
- Compliance planning and certification timelines
Understanding the updated requirements early will help operators avoid delays, unexpected costs, or compliance issues when preparing PBS applications after July 2026.
Learn More
The NHVR has published further information on the revised DSUB standard and will also host an introductory webinar to walk through the changes.
📅 Webinar: Tuesday, February 3
🕙 Time: 10:00am (AEST)
Operators, manufacturers, and compliance managers are encouraged to attend to better understand how the new requirements may affect future PBS vehicles and combinations.
At Logbook Checker, we believe staying informed about regulatory changes is key to safer operations and smoother compliance. We’ll continue to share updates that help drivers and operators prepare well ahead of time.s that help keep drivers safe, compliant, and moving.ns continue, staying informed will be critical for anyone operating in the heavy vehicle sector.