The Queensland Trucking Association (QTA) has called on the next Queensland government to confront “hard truths” and untap the state’s freight productivity potential in its election blueprint.
The QTA says freight productivity has hindered the efficiency of the transport sector and the competitiveness of vital agricultural and manufacturing industries for the past 20 years.
In its 2024 election blueprint, ‘It’s Time to Get Queensland Moving’, QTA CEO Gary Mahon says there’s an urgent need for infrastructure to be provided for heavy vehicles.
“The current Queensland road system and key bridges were designed primarily for cars, leaving our trucks struggling for adequate routes. This oversight not only compromises safety but also drives up future costs for necessary adjustments,” Mahon says.
The blueprint has three key pillars that outlines critical investment priorities for all political parties and decision-makers if they want to foster resilience and growth in Queensland’s economy.
The first point is to invest in roads built for trucks, with infrastructure designed to accommodate heavy vehicles, enhancing safety and efficiency.
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The second is to build bridges that connect freight networks, with crucial bridge upgrades set to help open access for high productivity vehicles.
Lastly, the QTA also wants the next Queensland government to invest in industry-led training by fully funding the Heavy Vehicle Driver Apprenticeship and supporting employers with on-the-job training.
“The road freight industry is the heartbeat of our communities, ensuring essential goods reach families and businesses across Queensland,” Mahon says.
“Yet, our access for high productivity vehicles is constrained and remains severely limited due to outdated bridge infrastructure.”
QTA urges immediate investment reforms to enhance productivity, boost the economy and elevate living standards.
“It’s not just about roads; it’s about building a framework for economic growth,” Mahon says.
“Safer, more efficient roads for high productivity vehicles will strengthen the viability of businesses across the state. Confidence in our transport sector is key to driving economic prosperity.”
Mahon also wants to see the transport and logistics industry recognised as a deliverer of an essential service to Queensland, with funding being directed into industry-led training and on-the-job training programs.
“Currently the Heavy Vehicle Driver Apprenticeship in Queensland does not currently attract fully funded training subsidies. The QTA is asking for fair funding, equal to other professional trades,” Mahon says.
“We are also advocating for the establishment of a ‘trade taster’ program for transport and logistics. The projections for the growth in the freight task, warrant the inclusion of a trade taster program for the transport and logistics industry. Without this, the transport and logistics industry will remain invisible to many school students seeking a vocation in the trade area.
“We urge the next Queensland government to make bold infrastructure investments that will ensure Queensland can thrive. It’s time to get Queensland moving!”
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