The Queensland Trucking Association (QTA) has called on the next Queensland Government to confront “hard truths” regarding the untapped freight productivity potential in its new 2024 Election Blueprint.
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The QTA says freight productivity has hindered the efficiency of our transport sector and the competitiveness of vital agricultural and manufacturing industries for the past 20 years.
In its bold new 2024 Election Blueprint titled “It’s Time to Get Queensland Moving,” CEO Gary Mahon emphasises the urgent need for infrastructure that prioritises heavy vehicles.
“The current Queensland road system and key bridges were designed primarily for cars, leaving our trucks struggling for adequate routes,” he says.
“This oversight not only compromises safety but also drives up future costs for necessary adjustments.”
“The road freight industry is the heartbeat of our communities, ensuring essential goods reach families and businesses across Queensland,” he 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“Yet, our access for high productivity vehicles is constrained and remains severely limited due to outdated bridge infrastructure.”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.
Mahon says it’s not just about roads, but about building a framework for economic growth.
“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.”
QTA says the transport and logistics industry needs to be recognised as delivering an essential service to Queensland and funding needs to be directed into industry led training and support on-the-job training programs.
Mahon says currently the Heavy Vehicle Driver Apprenticeship in Queensland does not attract fully funded training subsidies.
“The QTA is asking for fair funding, equal to other professional trades,” he 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.”
This Blueprint presents a visionary roadmap for the future of Queensland’s road freight system, advocating for strategic investments that unlock vital freight routes and support businesses’ needs into the future.
The Blueprint outlines critical investment priorities for all political parties and decision-makers, aiming to foster resilience and growth in Queensland’s economy.
Key recommendations include:
- Invest in Roads Built for Trucks: Design infrastructure to accommodate heavy vehicles, enhancing safety and efficiency.
- Build Bridges to Connect Freight Networks: Upgrade crucial bridges to facilitate open up access for high productivity vehicles.
- Invest in Industry-Led Training: Fully fund the Heavy Vehicle Driver Apprenticeship and support employers to provide on-the-job training.
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