The peak body for the Australian trucking industry, the Australian Trucking Association (ATA), has welcomed independent senator Jacqui Lambie’s announcement today that she will support the immediate abolition of the Road Safety Remuneration Tribunal (RSRT) and its pay order.



Senator Lambie’s announcement followed a meeting with the CEO of the National Road Transport Association, Warren Clark.



“The Road Safety Remuneration Order is already forcing many owner drivers out of the industry, and is causing enormous financial and personal hardship on thousands more throughout Australia,” ATA Chief Executive Christopher Melham said.



“We are delighted to hear Senators Lazarus and Lambie publicly advocating the immediate abolition of the RSRT, rather than a delay.



“Their support for abolishing the Tribunal now, and not waiting until after the election, is a clear indication that they also support the tens of thousands of owner drivers who help carry the weight of this nation.



“I remain hopeful that all independent senators will support a bill to abolish the RSRT now. The ATA will continue its discussions with independent senators over the next week, which include practical measures to address concerns about the lack of market power of some small trucking businesses.



“I also call on financial institutions to show compassion regarding the terrible financial plight some owner drivers find themselves in as a result of the pay order, and urge them to refrain from any adverse action until this mess is sorted out.”