Electronic work diaries (EWDs): a guide for transport operators

Short answer: An electronic work diary (EWD) is a system approved by the NHVR that records a driver’s work and rest times. Drivers can use one instead of a written work diary. It’s voluntary. As at 3 November 2026, 13 EWDs are approved. The NHVR is moving to a new Generation 2.0 framework, but existing approved EWDs stay approved and don’t need replacing.

Scope: these are Heavy Vehicle National Law rules for fatigue-regulated heavy vehicles. They don’t apply in Western Australia or the Northern Territory, except to drivers from there who drive in a state or territory that uses the HVNL.

Approved EWDs

The NHVR’s EWD register lists these systems. Check each one’s Certificate of Approval for its conditions of use.

This list is checked against the NHVR EWD register each month.

Written or electronic: how they compare

Not every driver needs a work diary. A driver working Standard hours within 100 km of base keeps a local area record instead.

What Generation 2.0 changes

The NHVR and Transport Certification Australia have set up a new Generation 2.0 EWD framework, with a new system specification and stronger testing and assurance. The NHVR says there are no immediate changes for drivers, operators or record keepers already using an approved EWD, and no need to replace one. The Gen 2.0 specification is expected soon. We’ll update this guide when it’s out.

Your obligations don’t change

Drivers, operators and record keepers have the same obligations with an EWD as with a written diary. The EWD sends the driver’s records to the record keeper, and drivers and operators need training on how to use it.

How to choose an EWD

• Rule sets. Check it handles every set your drivers work under: Standard, BFM and your own AFM hours.

• Devices. Ask whether it runs on phones drivers already carry or needs a device in the truck.

• Breach follow-up. An EWD flags possible breaches, but someone still has to review them and record what was done. Ask where that happens.

• Paper drivers. Most fleets move in stages. Decide how you’ll check the drivers still on paper, in the same place if you can.

• Cost. Most EWDs charge a monthly subscription per vehicle or driver. Check what a driver who works one day a month costs.

Where Harvy fits

Harvy isn’t an EWD today. It checks EWD sheets from your provider alongside paper work diary sheets, against the same rules, with one breach report for the whole fleet. See EWD reporting. We’re also building Harvy EWD.

Using EWDs and paper? Harvy checks both in one place. Book a demo.

Sources

• NHVR: Electronic Work Diary (EWD)

• NHVR: EWD register

• NHVR: Introduction of Generation 2.0 Electronic Work Diaries

• NHVR: Chain of Responsibility