Freight industry workers are struggling to deal with constant rule changes while operating at near capacity in the pre-Christmas period
National suicide prevention organisation OzHelp has called for compassion and understanding towards truck drivers as they work under unbearable pressures and restrictions.
OzHelp CEO Darren Black highlighted that the last 18 months have placed extreme pressure on drivers in an industry that has been described as one of the unhealthiest and deadliest in Australia.
“The transport industry remains one of the highest at-risk of mental ill-health, and truck drivers are the second-highest occupational group at risk of suicide, after construction workers,” Black said.
“The sentiment from drivers is one of frustration and fatigue as they continue to balance and juggle time pressures, isolation, and long hours on top of changing restrictions, a lack of support, and increased workloads.”
National Road Freighters Association (NRFA) president Rod Hannifey pointed to a confluence of issues adding to drivers’ burdens.
“It’s a difficult time for many drivers and the industry is running at near capacity,” Hannifey said.
“Some people have left the industry, many have lost work and there has been movement of drivers creating significant disruption.”
“As an industry we have all too often been left chasing our tail, trying to comply with not only different interpretations of the rules, but complete rule changes, often weekly, but at times by the hour.
“Expectations for drivers to be across these changes add additional stress and with the unpredictable wait times for border testing and results, schedules are impacted and affect the ability to plan ahead to get a decent meal, take a shower or even sleep.
“Living and working out of a truck is hard enough without this inconsistency and complexity and we are calling for a national focus and approach to the decisions being made.”
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OzHelp said its support program, Health in Gear, is working to reassure drivers and their families that they are not alone.
Health in Gear was developed with drivers and offers a range of self-help resources on their website, a podcast titled Share The Load, and a 1800 line that provides support and counselling to drivers and their families.
“The industry is unique and often misunderstood and many people struggle to understand the complex challenges truck drivers face,” Health in Gear support worker Frank Arsego said.
The industry is quite literally the backbone of Australia’s economy.
“We’ve heard worrying stories of drivers not being able to take a day off due to a shortage of drivers.
“Basic needs have not been met with shower facilities and toilets being closed.
“One driver said with the mounting pressure he cried for a whole day, claiming he’s not such a big tough truck driver after all.
“Drivers need to know there’s someone at the end of the line who gets it, is listening, and wants to help.”
With Christmas drawing near, Health in Gear asks the community to be mindful of the challenges and pressures truck drivers are facing and respond with patience, kindness, and support.
Health in Gear is a health and wellbeing program developed by the OzHelp Foundation. The program is funded by the federal government through the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative.
Truck drivers can access support by calling 1800 IN GEAR (1800 464 327) Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm AEST. For 24/7 crisis support call Lifeline 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue 1300 224 636