The National Road Transport Association (NatRoad) says Australia runs the risk of returning to the days of empty supermarket shelves unless the federal government addresses the nation’s growing truck driver shortage.
NatRoad says there are more than 26,000 unfilled driver positions threatening the nation’s supply chain and economic stability, with NatRoad suggestion the situation may get worse as road freight is projected to increase by 77 per cent from 2020 to 2050.
According to the 2024 International Road Transport Union (IRU) Truck Driver Shortage Survey, almost half of Australian freight businesses (49 per cent) are already facing severe or very severe difficulties filling driver positions.
The survey also found 38 per cent of businesses expect the shortage to worsen in the next 12 months. Smaller businesses in particular are struggling with a lack of access to training programs and diversifying their workforce.
“Many Australians learned during COVID what happens when the supply chain is disrupted – empty shelves,” NatRoad CEO Warren Clark says.
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“The heavy vehicle industry really is the backbone of the nation’s economy, providing essential services in transport, logistics and supply chains across the country. If left unchecked, this driver shortage will disrupt every aspect of life, from grocery shop shelves to construction, industrial production and exports.”
In response, NatRoad has proposed a National Road Freight Workforce Action Plan with eight key elements.
Starting with creating a national truck driver standard and implementing a national truck driver apprenticeship, NatRoad also calls for the development of a National Heavy Vehicle Skills Hub and the introduction of training incentives.
From there, NatRoad also wants to reform licencing and training, deliver key actions in the ISA Workforce Plan, recognise driver skill levels and address other road freight industry skills shortages.
“It also should not be forgotten this goes beyond the dire economic crisis. This is also about safety for our truck drivers and all other road users,” Clark says.
“We need urgent coordinated action and leadership from National Cabinet because this crisis requires reform from multiple governments.
“We need all levels of government and industry to work together to resolve the current and future driver shortages and ensure that Australia’s road transport network remains safe, efficient and sustainable.
“Together, we can secure the future of Australia’s road freight industry and ensure the continued delivery of essential goods and services.”
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