For many owner drivers and small operators, keeping up with what is happening across our industry can feel overwhelming. Between running a business, keeping trucks on the road, managing compliance and still finding time for family, it is easy to feel like important conversations are happening somewhere else. That is exactly why the National Road Freighters Association exists, and why our annual conference continues to be one of the most important dates on our calendar.
On Saturday February 21, the NRFA will head to Wollongong for our 2026 conference, and it is shaping up to be one of our most relevant events yet. This year’s theme of ‘Safe, Sustainable and Viable’ has been chosen very deliberately. These three words sit at the heart of everything owner drivers and small fleets deal with every single day. Safety is non-negotiable. Sustainability is about more than the environment, it is about staying in business long term. Viability is the bottom line that determines whether any of you can keep doing what you love.
One of the biggest topics on the agenda will be the new Heavy Vehicle National Law reforms. Whether you support the reforms, have concerns or simply want clarity on what they mean in real terms, this conference will give you the opportunity to hear directly from those involved.
We are pleased to confirm that Paul Daly from the NHVR will be attending to talk through the HVNL reforms and what they look like. This is a rare opportunity for operators to hear first-hand information, ask questions and gain a clearer understanding of what is coming and how to prepare.
In addition to hearing from the NHVR, the conference will bring together representatives from the National Transport Commission, the Transport Workers’ Union, the Australian Trucking Association, TruckSafe and NatRoad. This diversity of voices reflects what NRFA conferences are about – the industry coming together to talk openly about solutions.
Importantly, owner drivers and small operators will be at the centre of these conversations, ensuring the realities faced at the coalface are heard and understood. There is no single change that will fix long-standing issues such as undercutting, sham contracting and poor-quality operations. Meaningful improvement will require a combination of regulatory reform, commercial responsibility and industry leadership, informed by those who live and work in transport every day.
The day will be structured around our three key themes, with a dedicated panel session for each of ‘Safe, Sustainable and Viable’. These sessions are designed to be practical, honest and interactive, with time for discussion and questions from the floor.
We are also proud to welcome local guest speaker True Ross. True’s connection to the region and the industry makes her the perfect fit for our Wollongong event. Her insight, experience and straight-talking approach will resonate with operators who value authenticity and real stories over buzzwords. True understands the realities of transport and the people who keep it moving, and her contribution will be a highlight of the day.
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As if the daytime program was not enough, the conference will roll into an evening that celebrates the people and organisations who give so much back to our industry. Those attending the dinner will be treated to a special address from Marty Haynes from the i98 Illawarra Convoy for Kids. Marty’s passion and commitment to supporting children and families in need is well known, and his story is one that reminds us all of the power of community within transport.
The dinner will also see our industry awards presented, recognising individuals who go above and beyond. These awards are about recognising effort, commitment and contribution to the industry with the Noel Porter and Terrie Bradley memorial awards presented. We will then wrap up the night with our always popular auction. It is fun and entertaining, and it is a great way to finish a full and meaningful day.
One thing that cannot be ignored is the value this conference offers. Tickets are just $70 for the full day, or $120 for the day and dinner – we have worked hard to keep this event affordable and accessible. There really is no excuse to sit back and complain about not knowing what is going on when an opportunity like this is available at such a reasonable cost.
The NRFA conference is about more than listening to speakers. It is about connection, networking and having your voice heard. It is about sitting in a room with people who understand your challenges and want to see grassroots operators succeed. It is about taking information back to your business that you can actually use.
Tickets are already selling fast, and we encourage anyone who has an interest in the future of the industry to secure their spot sooner rather than later. Whether you are an owner driver, a small fleet operator, a supplier or someone who simply cares about the direction transport is heading, this is a day you do not want to miss.
For more details or to secure your tickets, head to www.nrfa.com.au. If you have any questions or would like more information, please feel free to email or call me directly at admin@nrfa.com.au or on 0493 564 467. We look forward to seeing you in Wollongong in February for what promises to be an informative, engaging and worthwhile day for our industry.
Location: The Fraternity Club, 11 Bourke Street, Fairy Meadow NSW 2519
Date: Saturday February 21 2026
Time: 8 am – 4:30 pm (Conference)
Time: 6:30 pm – 10:30 pm (Dinner)
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