Industry body sees continuing member concern at prospect of RSRT return along with four other issues
The post-election limbo has smaller trucking firms on tenterhooks over chances of a resurrected Road Safety Remuneration Tribunal (RSRT), according to industry body NatRoad.
NatRoad CEO Warren Clark has called on politicians to bear their concern in mind in negotiations towards forming a government.
“Small trucking business is looking for certainty that the RSRT will not be returning,” Clark says.
“Many owner drivers and small trucking businesses as well as the people and businesses they serve were hanging on this election result and a hung parliament brings added uncertainty.
“As it stands forming government with Labor would have an immediate impact on the businesses 35,000 owner drivers throughout Australia who will be subject to a new form of the RSRT.
“Small trucking businesses are still recovering from the shock the RSRT dealt to their businesses and the industry with many delaying business activities such as orders for new trucks and equipment as well as making important payments.
“Every Australian needs a government that is supportive of a safe, competitive and thriving road freight industry.”
Clark says his organisation hopes the independents, Rebekha Sharkie, Andrew Wilkie, Cathy McGowan, Bob Katter and the Greens’ Adam Bandt keep small trucking businesses in mind should they begin negotiations to form government.
He adds that that during the election period and in the wake of the RSRT there is recognition that our industry needs to work more closely with governments and regulators to bring about practical changes for a safer and competitive road freight industry.
Members’ and industry feedback during the election campaign indicated four key areas of focus of the new government:
Improving road safety: better safety research and reliable statistics, real safety measures for heavy vehicles as well as greater education for all road users sharing the road with trucks
Moving to a national system: national compliance, registration and regulation for heavy vehicles is a priority that would cut red tape and support productivity
Reforms are practical: that reforms and changes are practical and support a competitive industry from large road freight organisations to small trucking businesses
Clearer advice to industry and greater consultation: that reforms and changes are easily understood and that there are real opportunities for industry feedback.
“We all want to continue to improve safety in our industry while ensure there is some consistency to regulations after many years of change and we want safety compliance that is truly practical,” Clark says.