A delegation of trucking industry representatives from across the country will discuss key industry issues with Australia’s political leaders today and tomorrow as part of TruckWeek 2014.
Held by the ATA every two years, TruckWeek is a nationwide celebration of the trucking industry and the people who work in it. TruckWeek 2014 runs from 1-7 September.
The delegation consists of:
- ATA Chair Noelene Watson;
- ATA Vice Chair Tim Knowles;
- ATA Vice Chair and NatRoad President, Geoff Crouch;
- Immediate past ATA Chair, David Simon;
- Australian Furniture Removers Association President Andrew Garrety;
- ATA Director Mike Almond AM;
- ATA Director Matt Butler;
- ATA Director Gordon Martin;
- ATA Director Austin Vella;
- Acting Queensland Trucking Association President Roz Shaw;
- ATANSW Policy Council Chair, Jon Luff;
- South Australian Road Transport Association President Sharon Middleton; and
- Victorian Transport Association President Brendan Hopley.
The key issues to be discussed in the meetings will include the ATA’s call for the adoption of electronic braking systems, heavy vehicle charging, chain of responsibility, the establishment of a road freight advisory council, and the Productivity Commission inquiry into public infrastructure.
ATA Chair Noelene Watson said it was essential to work with policy makers to continue improving safety and viability in the trucking industry.
“Trucks carry more than 70 per cent of Australia’s domestic freight, including every item on the shelves of the supermarket. Making sure that these goods are transported in a safe and professional way is our highest priority,” Mrs Watson said.
“With the freight task set to increase, we need to work together to make sure we can continue to improve our industry’s safety record and provide timely, efficient transport services into the future.”
The delegation will meet political leaders including the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, Warren Truss; the Minister for Industry, Ian Macfarlane; the Minister for the Environment, Greg Hunt; the Shadow Treasurer, Chris Bowen; and Shadow Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Anthony Albanese.
TruckWeek events are taking place in every state and territory. For more information and to find your closest event, go to www.truckweek.com.au.
