Industry association NatRoad says the federal budget’s funding promises for transport are “mostly good”, with some issues still yet to be fully addressed.
There is support from the association for funding for carbon fuels and road safety, power bill and tax relief for small businesses. General initiatives to ease the rising cost of living will help a road transport industry that’s under pressure.
NatRoad CEO Warren Clark says the budget has delivered a range of positive initiatives for operators.
“A 12-month extension to the $20,000 instant asset write-off will help small businesses claim an immediate tax benefit on new assets through to June 2025,” Clark says.
“This is something we’ve pushed hard for in a number of budgets.
“Eligible road transport businesses will also appreciate the modest $325 rebate on their power bills.”
Clark also welcomed increased funding in the budget for the Roads to Recovery and Black Spot programs.
“NatRoad hopes that the $10.8 million in 2024-25 for a one-year National Road Safety Education campaign has a heavy emphasis on truck awareness,” Clark says.
“The $21.2 million over six years to improve the reporting of national road safety data via the National Road Safety Data Hub is important and long overdue.
“While we welcome additional road funding where the routes are relevant for freight, ultimately we still need to see all governments, including the states and territories, implement road service level standards so we know our tax dollars are going to the roads which need it, with an increased focus on road maintenance.”