• Lithium-Ion batteries in transport
• Misuse of mandatory stopping bays
• Wind up of Roe Highway extension
• Value our drivers and treat with respect
Pages 22 & 23
WA SHINY BIG RIGS CRUISE
The ‘WA Shiny Big Rigs Cruises’ event helps build a positive relationship with the Western Australian public and shows a good will gesture from the WA Transport industry. Hundreds of people lined the streets to cheer the big rigs on. Well done to organiser Matty Hill and all attendees.
Pictured: Bandana Earthmoving
A STRONG & POWERFUL VOICE FOR TRANSPORT WORKERS’
At the TWU, we are relentless in the pursuit of building and exercising worker power, guided by clear, strong principles. We are committed to earning and keeping our members’ trust and bargaining collectively. We aim to hold corporations to account, empowering the workforce with a strong and powerful voice.
The TWU has a number of Enterprise Agreements in a myriad of transport companies. If you work for a company that has an EA with the TWU, you, along with all transport workers benefit from the years of struggle and collective action of union members before you.
And set the standard for transport workers into the future.
TWU Members also benefit from a range of services available only to members
Legal Services
Wage increases and improved conditions through collective bargaining
Enforcement of your agreement and workplace rights
Representation for incidents or disciplinaries
Job Security and protection
$5,000 Funeral benefits
Free Wills
Extraordinary Driver’s License
Income Protection and Group Accident and Sickness cover
Collective purchasing power of UnionShopper to provide members with discounts on a range of restaurants, gift cards, white goods and more
You should be a member of your union, the TWU if you enjoy these benefits like:
Annual Leave
Maternity Leave
Long Service Leave
Sick days
Leave loading
Penalty rates
Superannuation
Health and safety and workers’ compensation
Allowances (meal allowances, shift allowances)
Rest breaks
Unfair dismissal protection
Becoming a member of the TWU ensures you can maintain these rights into the future.
The Heavy Vehicle Helpdesk is open from: 7am to 6pm Monday to Friday, and WA Public Holidays.
On weekends the Main Roads Customer Information Centre will receive telephone calls on behalf of the Heavy Vehicle Helpdesk on 138 HVO (138 486) and email enquiries can be sent to hvs@mainroads.wa.gov.au
LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES IN TRANSPORT APPLICATIONS
In this advancing technological world most products you buy now that require energy are powered by Lithium-ion batteries; from our mobile phones, power tools, generators right through to electric vehicles including trucks and buses.
With the smaller applications we have all experienced moments of anxiety when we feel our phone or charger overheat and have seen the result of what can happen when these devices set on fire sometimes causing serious property damage.
We have also seen the recalls from manufacturers and with all of this combined it makes you wonder how much at risk you really are.
The ACCC has warned consumers about rare but serious fire hazards from lithiumion batteries and says whilst incidents are rare, they appear to be increasing and are serious when they occur.
The batteries can overheat or explode if they are used, charged or disposed of incorrectly or if they are damaged, and fires
caused by the batteries can be dangerous and difficult to extinguish.
One Australian has reportedly died in a lithium-ion battery fire and the ACCC has received 231 product safety reports relating to lithium-ion batteries in the past five years. There have also been 23 recalls affecting an estimated 89,000 products on the market.
WorkSafe has issued reminders about the risks of using, storing and charging equipment that has lithium-ion batteries and says, “When overheated, lithium-ion batteries of all sizes can catch fire. The fire is often hard to put out and the smoke from the fire can be toxic”.
The common reasons lithium-ion batteries may overheat and catch fire include damage and using incorrect charging equipment.
WorkSafe suggests for work safety that employers should remove lithium-ion batteries from areas where a lithium-ion battery fire could be a hazard such as not
storing or charging removable battery packs or LEVs in offices or other spaces near people.
They also suggest that employers provide a dedicated charging area using approved charging equipment that is separate from areas where people work and that equipment is kept within fire resistant areas such as outdoors (where appropriate) or in an area covered by working smoke alarms and suitable sprinkler systems.
As well as prevent the use, storage or charging of electric plant or passenger vehicles in enclosed and restricted spaces, unless the fire detection and suppression system is suitable for the special fire hazard (a lithium-ion battery fire) and that you have systems that are suitable for lithiumion battery fires such as additional fire suppression capability.
Another option is to install "Smart Chargers" that monitor lithium-ion battery status and automatically disconnect the power if a fault is detected and keep
charging equipment out of direct sunlight and away from areas exposed to heat or moisture.
Employees need an emergency plan to address a lithium-ion battery fire including evacuation and clear instructions that employees should follow.
Thermal Runaway
So that is all fairly common sense for the workplace, so let’s look at the risk of Thermal Runaway in EV’s.
Lithium-ion batteries work by moving lithium ions between two electrodes— an anode (negative electrode) and a cathode (positive electrode)—through an electrolyte. During charging, lithium ions are stored in the anode. When the battery discharges, the lithium ions move to the cathode, releasing energy. The movement of lithium ions is facilitated by a separator, which prevents direct contact between the electrodes. This process repeats during the charging and discharging cycles, allowing the battery to store and release energy.
Thermal runaway is a phenomenon that can occur in certain types of batteries, including lithium-ion batteries, and refers to an uncontrolled, self-accelerating increase in temperature within the battery cell or pack. It is a highly critical condition that can lead to overheating, release of flammable gases, and, in extreme cases, fire or explosion.
Thermal runaway typically begins with a localized thermal event, such as a short circuit or a failure within the battery cell. This can be caused by physical damage, manufacturing defects, overcharging, overdischarging, exposure to high temperatures, or other factors that disrupt the normal operation of the battery.
Paul Christensen Professor of Pure and Applied Electrochemistry at Newcastle University recently gave an interview to the International Fire and Safety Journal about Thermal Runaway. Christensen is currently involved in lithium-ion research projects, including the ongoing research of large lithium-ion battery modules in collaboration with a number of fires.
Thermal Runaway can occur in any kind of lithium battery, but according to Christensen ‘as you get the bigger and bigger lithium-ion batteries, the surface area to volume ratio gets worse and worse.
The heat that should be escaping and dissipating stays inside the battery. This is why using lithium-ion batteries in vehicles can be very dangerous. ‘The time between an e-scooter showing the first signs of
EV
FireSafe said that electric truck battery fires are rare, and based on its research; typically occur in prototype vehicles or following a major collision
thermal runaway and fire or explosion can be ten seconds or less’. Christensen even believes Lithium-ion batteries shouldn’t exit. ‘They’re what is called ‘thermodynamically unstable”.
When an electric car catches fire, you can’t just put it out with water. ‘Putting water on the car is rather like having a fire in your kitchen and putting the water onto the roof’ Christensen said.
The stats on EV vehicle fires
There have been six electric car fires in Australia since 2010 involving the vehicle going into ‘thermal runaway’ – three were external fires unrelated to the cars, one was arson, another followed a crash, and one was caused by road debris penetrating the battery. (30 September 2024)
Electric cars are deemed 20 times less likely to catch fire than an internal combustion-engined vehicle, though due to their predominantly lithium-ion batteries, they burn much more fiercely and don't respond well to typical fire suppression methods in cases of thermal runaway.
This makes them more difficult and time consuming for crews to extinguish.
According to EV FireSafe, as of May 2024, there have been 490 EV battery fires worldwide since 2010.
EV FireSafe is an Australian company funded by the Department of Defence to research electric vehicle high-voltage battery fires and emergency response.
According to EV FireSafe, of ten “documented fires” in electric trucks around the world since 2022, only one was an OEM electric truck – a Volvo that was hit by a freight train in the USA.
Of those ten incidents three were Janus Electric: July 14, 2022, Converted Kenworth, Berkeley Vale, NSW; November 28, 2023, Converted Kenworth, Port Melbourne, Victoria; March, 14 2024, Battery pack for an electric truck, Apprentice Drive, Berkeley Vale, NSW.
Three were Nikola trucks: June 23, 2023,
TRE BEV Truck, Arizona, USA; September 4, 2023, TRE BEV, Arizona, USA; September 8, 2023, TRE BEV, Arizona, USA.
Then on February 10, 2023, there was a fire in a Terminal Tractor, Kalmar Electric, California, USA; August 2023, the Volvo Truck incident in California, USA; February 14, 2024, Phoenix Danmark electric garbage truck, Rodovre, Denmark and on March 2024, an unknown brand of Yard Truck in Kansas, USA.
EV FireSafe said that electric truck battery fires are rare, and based on its research; typically occur in prototype vehicles or following a major collision.
To date, there have been no fires or dangerous issues with any OEM trucks in Australia.
Newer innovation in batteries
Whilst the advantages of lithium-ion batteries are clear, a newer innovation has transformed the battery technology space by 360 degrees.
The rise of LiFePO4 batteries addressed the long-standing issues in li-ion power packs, including user safety, portability, and lifespan.
Perhaps the biggest edge of LiFePO4 power packs over lithium-ion batteries is the presence of a built-in BMS. This allows for automatic cell optimisation of every cell inside the battery and automatic protection against overcharging, over-discharging, overheating, and short circuits.
Safe and significantly lighter with increased capacity, it's no surprise that LiFePO4 batteries have been dominating the battery market lately, with more people switching to it for recreational, home backup, and off-grid purposes.
Overall, LiFePO4 batteries offer a compelling combination of safety, longevity, stability, and environmental sustainability, making them a preferred choice for many applications, including electric vehicles, solar energy storage, and portable electronics.
VOLUME 31 | NUMBER 2
Angry Chicken Publishing Pty Ltd
Telephone 0430 153 273
www.angrychicken.com.au
ABN: 35 486 530 095
PUBLISHER / COMMISSIONING EDITOR
Karen-Maree’ Kaye
T: 0430 153 273
Email: karen@angrychicken.com.au
WRITERS
Karen-Maree’ Kaye, Russell McKinnon
CONTRIBUTORS
Jan Cooper, Cam Dumesny, Cliff Graham, Carol Messenger, Ray Pratt , Lara Jensen
ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES
Angry Chicken Head Office
T: 0430 153 273
E: karen@angrychicken.com.au
DESIGN / PREPRESS
Cally Browning | Bare Creative
ACCOUNTS
T: 0430 153 273
E: accounts@angrychicken.com.au
PRINTER
Daniels Printing Craftsmen
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Subscriptions available directly from the Publisher.
T: 0430 153 273
E: karen@angrychicken.com.au
Australia: 1 year $130 (inc GST)
Overseas subscribers: Airmail postage will be added to subscription rate.
Editorial Submissions: The Publisher welcomes editorial submissions. Once received they will become the property of the Publisher who reserves the right to edit the or adjust the content to fit with the format of our publication.
West Australian Transport Magazine (WATM) is published by Angry Chicken Publishing Pty Ltd
ABN: 35 486 530 095 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, adapted or transmitted in any form by any process (graphic, electronic, mechanical or storage and retrieval system) or sold, resold or otherwise exploited for any purpose without consent of the Publisher.
The publisher, contributors, editors and consultants disclaim any and all liability and responsibility to any person or party, be they a purchaser, reader, advertiser or consumer of this publication in regards to consequences and outcomes of anything done or omitted, or being in reliance whether partly or solely on the contents of this publication. No person, organization or party should rely on or on any way act upon any part of the contents of this magazine without first obtaining the advice of a fully qualified person. The Publisher shall have no responsibility for any action or omission by contributor, consultant, editor or related party for content within WATM. The opinions and content within WATM does not necessarily reflect those of the Publisher, editor or their agents. No responsibility is accepted for damage or loss of material supplied to the publisher.
The relationship that the transport industry has with the general public should never be underestimated. Unfortunately on social media there are a number of sites that call out bad driving practices, usually with video evidence and some in the transport industry have appeared there which sadly paints everyone with the same brush in many people’s eyes. So when we have positive events such as the all the charity convoys these go a long way to changing the people’s perception of our industry. One such event is the WA Shiny Big Rigs Cruise which was organised by Matty Hill which we have covered on page 22 and 23 and the front cover. Well done to Matty and all the attendees.
This month we explore Lithium-Ion batteries in transport applications. With the amount of fires resulting from batteries increasing we look at the facts around the larger batteries in trucks and there is good news on that front, however with smaller
FROM THE PUBLISHER Contents
batteries that are in all our homes and offices there needs to be a safety plan in place.
Main Roads HVO draws attention to the misuse of mandatory stopping bays at the top of steep descents, such as Great Eastern Highway in Greenmount and Welshpool Road East in Lesmurdie. These bays are not to be used for rest breaks.
Our ‘Fair Go for the Owner Driver’ columnist Ray Pratt discusses the ongoing driver shortage and points out that truck drivers need to be valued and treated with respect and changes need to be made within industry because there is a shortage of people who want to work in the industry under the current conditions and environment.
As always, thank you to all the readers and supporters of the magazine.
Best,
Our digital editions (11 per year) are available at ‘no cost’ and to subscribe please email karen@angrychicken.com.au
You will receive a monthly email from us and be given a link to a high quality Flip Book that you can download and access any links within the publication.
We do not make any profit on our subscriptions. Due to the rising costs of postage and producing the magazine we charge only ‘what it costs us’ to print and post your publication to you.
To receive the hard copies, please email karen@angrychicken.com.au with the following details and you will receive an invoice with EFT details:
WANT TO PAY BY CREDIT CARD?
Visit www.isubscribe.com.au/wa-transport-magazine-subscription.cfm
Note, this option costs $140 (one year) and the price includes ISUBSCRIBE fees on top of $130 base cost (printing and postage only). Thank you for your understanding and support of an independent publisher who has been producing the WA Transport Magazine for 30 years
RAV access and your responsibilities
If you are planning to use Restricted Access Vehicles (RAVs), such as Road Trains, B-Doubles and Truck and Dog Trailer combinations to complete any transport task, you must first ensure the required roads are approved for the appropriate RAV network. It is part of your responsibilities under the Chain of Responsibility (CoR) legislation.
The Chain of Responsibility legislation is contained within the Road Traffic (Administration) Act 2008, the Road Traffic (Vehicles) Act 2012 and associated regulations. Under this legislation, the CoR may include (but is not limited to): officers of bodies corporate (s.108), partners and partners managing partnerships (s.109), persons managing unincorporated associations (s.110) and employers of the driver/co-driver/packer/consignor/ responsible person (s.111).
CoR was officially implemented when the Road Traffic (Vehicles) Regulations 2014 came into force, and it was introduced to:
✔ Improve road safety.
✔ Reduce damage to infrastructure.
✔ Promote a ‘level playing field’ for industry.
✔ Improve deterrence and enforcement.
✔ Improve business efficiency and compliance.
The legislation extends the legal liability to each party connected with the vehicle in the transport chain, which includes:
✔ Consignors – a person or company commissioning the transport of goods.
✔ Packers – a person who puts the goods in packages, containers or pallets for transport, or supervises or manages this activity.
✔ Loaders – a person who loads the vehicle or supervises or manages the loading of the vehicle.
✔ Drivers – the person driving the vehicle.
✔ Vehicle Licence Holder – the person or company named on the vehicle licence.
✔ Consignee / Receivers – a person paying for the goods and / or taking possession of the load.
Whichever activity you perform in the ‘chain’, it is important that you take reasonable steps to ensure compliance
with mass, dimension, loading and access requirements specified under the Road Traffic (Vehicles) Act 2012 and associated regulations, or the relevant Main Roads permit or order that applies to your vehicle. You also have a legal obligation to ensure your conduct does not induce or reward other parties in the ‘chain’ from committing a breach of these requirements.
If you operate a RAV on a road that is open to, or used by the public, you must
ensure it is within legal mass and dimension limits, the load is appropriately restrained or contained, and the vehicle is operating on an approved route.
As the sole authority to approve or decline RAV access, Main Roads Heavy Vehicle Services (HVS) is responsible for administering RAV access on all roads in the State, which includes carrying out a thorough route assessment process to determine if roads are safe and suitable for
Misuse of mandatory stopping bays for rest breaks
Operators are reminded that the mandatory stopping bays at the top of steep descents, such as Great Eastern Highway in Greenmount and Welshpool Road East in Lesmurdie, are not to be used for rest breaks, as this results in the bays being full and forcing other RAVs to pass the bays without pulling in.
The purpose of these stopping bays is for operators to pull in, come to a complete stop to check the brakes are functioning correctly, select low gear, select the appropriate auxiliary braking system setting, and proceed slowly down the hill. The bays should not be used for rest breaks as there is limited space available and it will affect other operators’ ability to comply with the requirement to stop.
Main Roads monitors the Greenmount bay using CCTV with number plate recognition capability.
Operators are reminded that the mandatory stopping bays at the top of steep descents, such as Great Eastern Highway in Greenmount and Welshpool Road East in Lesmurdie, are not to be used for rest breaks
RAV access.
Using the RAV Mapping Tool on the Main Roads website at mrwebapps.mainroads. wa.gov.au/hvsnetworkmap is the simplest way to identify the approved RAV Network and access conditions (if applicable) for a particular road. If the road you require is not approved, you can apply to HVS to have it assessed for addition to the relevant RAV Network.
As part of the assessment process, HVS will liaise with the relevant road manager to seek their comment and complete the necessary onsite assessments of the road to ensure it is safe and suitable for the requested RAV Network.
If the road is found suitable, HVS will advise both you and the road manager when it is added to the relevant RAV network and any applicable access conditions (if required). The approval will then be published in the RAV Mapping Tool, which is updated each Wednesday. You may then commence using the road.
If a road is found unsuitable for the requested RAV network, HVS will advise both you and the road manager, including providing a summary of the road deficiencies
If you operate a RAV on a road that is open to, or used by the public, you must ensure it is within legal mass and dimension limits, the load is appropriately restrained or contained, and the vehicle is operating on an approved route
and/or reasoning for the decision.
HVS is committed to finalising all route assessment applications within three months of receipt. However, assessments and approvals may be delayed for a variety of reasons, and HVS will maintain regular contact with you to keep you updated.
If you need to apply for roads to be added to a RAV Network, you need to apply as early as possible to ensure the road is
WA OWNED AND RUN
assessed and approved before you need to commence operations.
The application form to add a road to a RAV Network and all the other information about the route assessment process is available on the Access Requirements page on the Main Roads website.
For further information, feel free to contact our Heavy Vehicle Helpdesk on 138 486 or email hvs@mainroads.wa.gov.au.
WA’s premier brake and clutch specialists proudly servicing the states industrial clutch and brake applications.
From major truck workshops, heavy haulage, cranes, the mining industry and more… our team of knowledgeable and qualified technicians share over 100 years combined experience and focus on delivering prompt service alongside the supply of top name brakes and clutchesthroughout Australia and Asia.
With over 20 years in the industry we have a well-earned reputation for the development, manufacture and supply of quality standard and customised designs to suit a wide range of applications.
For the best advice and friendly service contact us today.
+61 8 9353 4411 ■ sales@knightbrakeandclutch.com.au knightbrakeandclutch.com.au
We need to
value our drivers and treat them with respect
For many years now we have been talking about the shortage of truck drivers and how it’s going to affect the future freight task in this great country of ours.
We have had shortages before but while there are token efforts to make changes nothing has really changed.
We had COVID-19 and truck drivers were heralded as the heroes of the day for keeping supermarket shelves stocked; promises were made however nothing has changed.
There have been some effort to fast track drivers into truck seats but experience has shown that this is a recipe for disaster evidenced by the reduction of professionalism and safety standards in our industry.
Whatever efforts have been made has not resulted in a noticeable increase of
truck drivers.
Trucking companies and big business still dictate the conditions and rates and drivers have to put up with it. As a consequence, older truck drivers have become disenchanted and are leaving or taking early retirement. I’ve repeatedly written about mates who want to keep driving but the job and working conditions are not improving so they vote with their feet and move on.
Another example was a mate who recently thought he had the ideal job to keep him going until retirement. The company he worked for promised easy loading early in the day to minimise night driving then about an eight hours drive to his destination to a busy mining town
My feeling is we do not have a shortage of licensed truck drivers we just have a shortage of people who wish to work in our industry under the current conditions and environment
- then unload next morning and return home. It sounded too good to be true. As often happens, things change and soon he was getting out of Perth later and later until it was seven at night and he was still expected to be at the destination for unloading the next morning.
He put up with it for a while but he could see conditions were not going to improve so now he is applying for the pension. So here we have another very skilled professional truck driver not really ready to retire but has said enough is enough.
Transport companies can be very reluctant to take on the responsibility of training drivers and more importantly making the effort to make the job attractive enough to retain drivers for the longer term. It’s not hard to see why many drivers leave the industry and join the mining industry.
I bit the bullet many years ago and joined the fly in fly out movement and worked for a major iron ore company. Whilst it was still hard work and we worked twelve hours a day, we had three meals a day and a good night’s sleep and were paid a lot more than I ever earned driving a truck. Not only that, I was paid superannuation and had all the other benefits that I never had as an Owner Driver.
Then to cap it off when I was home I wasn’t washing, servicing and worrying about my truck.
Not only that, we were valued for the work we did and there was a lot less pressure. I often compare the mining industry and long distance truck driving as they both involve long hours, hard work and being away from home. I’m reluctant to say the mining industry has become a lot more attractive than long distance truck driving.
The transport industry needs to take note because if it wants to retain drivers then we need to be valued as professionals and paid accordingly. My feeling is we do not have a shortage of licensed truck drivers we just have a shortage of people who wish to work in our industry under the current conditions and environment. We need to make changes to our industry to make it more attractive. While every truck drivers keep stepping up to the challenge and helping to keep the shelves full we will never see a change.
We need to value our drivers and treat them with respect. The whole transport industry culture needs to change. This will go a long way toward solving the truck driver shortage. Is everyone listening?
~ Keep it safe. Ray Pratt.
Ray Pratt
Contract awarded for transformational Tonkin Highway Project
The $1 billion Tonkin Highway Extension and Thomas Road Upgrade
Project will see the transformation of the south-east of Perth, delivering a 14-kilometre extension of Tonkin Highway as well as major upgrades to Thomas Road.
The extension of Tonkin Highway will include a four-lane dual carriageway from Thomas Road all the way to South Western Highway, including a number of gradeseparated interchanges, underpasses and roundabouts.
The project will also cater for the recreational needs of the area with several equine underpasses, and a new principal shared path along the entire 14-kilometre extension.
It will also benefit local communities in Byford, Armadale, Kelmscott and Gosnells which currently contend with large volumes of heavy vehicles on local roads, travelling to and from the South West and Wheatbelt regions.
Upgrades to Thomas Road will include duplication of 4.5-kilometres between Kargotich Road and South Western Highway, new principal shared path and upgrades to a number of local intersections including Kardan Boulevard, Masters Road and Plaistowe Boulevard.
Construction of the project is scheduled to commence in mid2025 with completion anticipated by late-2028 and is set to support around 4,400 direct and indirect jobs, marking a significant boost for the local economy.
The contract to deliver the project has been awarded to the Tonkin Extension Alliance consortium which includes BMD, Civcon Civil and Project Management, Georgiou Group, BG&E, and GHD, bringing together a wealth of expertise and experience to deliver one of Western Australia's most significant road infrastructure projects.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional
DoT to lead review and consultation on graduated licensing system
ADepartment of Transport (DoT) review of Western Australia's graduated licensing system will focus on the State's learner and provisional driver schemes and skills and training requirements for people to be granted driver's licences for car and motorcycles.
The review, a recommendation from the State Government's Road Safety Roundtable last year, will see DoT establish a reference panel comprising of members from Department of Education (School Drug Education and Road Aware), The University of Western Australia's Western Australian Centre for Road Safety Research, Road Safety Commission, WA Local Government Association, WA Police and RAC WA.
The car and motorcycle driver licensing reviews will be looking at what licensingrelated measures, over and above what is currently in place, can be considered to ensure that learner drivers and riders get
Development and Local Government
Catherine King said, "This project will deliver significant benefits to Western Australia's freight and logistics network, by creating a high-standard north-south transport link, improving road safety, freight efficiency, and connectivity for residents, businesses, and commuters.
"The project is part of a broader investment to the Tonkin Highway that will deliver a high-standard north-south transport link, including key upgrades such as the Tonkin Highway Gap."
WA Deputy Premier and Minister for Transport Rita Saffioti said, "The extension of Tonkin Highway will be a game-changer for the movement of freight to and from the South West and Wheatbelt, and provide a safer road network for people living in suburbs like Byford, Armadale, Kelmscott and Gosnells who currently contend with large volumes of heavy vehicles on local roads.
Federal Member for Burt Matt Keogh said, "We have seen incredible growth through the suburb of Byford and that means every day you're getting more and more interaction between local traffic and trucks.
"Extending Tonkin Highway will get trucks off South Western Highway, which will support this rapidly growing area, giving this community the roads they deserve.
the best grounding possible in their vehicle handling, knowledge of road rules, hazard perception and road craft, before they go solo.
The review will also look at what additional restrictions or support a solo novice driver or a novice or returning motorcycle rider might need to mitigate the risks of their early solo driving/riding and to gradually expose them to the full risks inherent in using the road as they gain more experience.
For trucks and buses, DoT has finalised its engagement with WA's heavy vehicle industry through a My Say Consultation as part of planning for the implementation of Austroads' national heavy vehicle licensing reforms where they sought feedback as to
whether minor adjustments are necessary to reflect the unique nature of the freight industry in Western Australia including:
• Ineligibility for those with a licence suspension/disqualification in past two years.
• Requirement to hold an HC licence before an MC licence.
• Expanding the use of telematics and other in-cab technology to improve fatigue management and/or compliance with access, mass or route management.
For more details about the national reform program visit https://austroads.gov. au/drivers-and-vehicles/registration-andlicensing/heavy-vehicle-driver-competencyframework
For trucks and buses, DoT has finalised its engagement with WA's heavy vehicle industry through a My Say Consultation as part of planning for the implementation of Austroads' national heavy vehicle licensing reforms
Significant amendment winds up Roe Highway extension
The Cook Labor Government has delivered on its commitment to close out the Roe 8 and 9 Perth Freight Link project with the finalisation of an amendment to the Metropolitan Region Scheme (MRS) - meaning this road can no longer go ahead.
The amendment removes the Primary Regional Roads reservation from the MRS, with areas of the highest environmental and heritage significance now reserved for Parks and Recreation.
Other parts that are largely cleared or already developed will be rezoned for urban uses which allows for a variety of opportunities such as housing, local open space, recreation, private education, commercial and mixed use, which will be determined through subsequent stages of planning.
Despite delay tactics from the WA Greens, who moved a disallowance motion on the twelfth and final day that the MRS amendment was required to be tabled in Parliament, the Bill has been passed and the Roe 8 and 9 Perth
Freight Link project has officially been shut down.
The finalisation of the MRS amendment follows an extensive engagement program with stakeholders including local governments, community groups, local education providers, recreation groups and the broader community.
Planning Minister John Carey said, "This amendment marks a significant milestone in the WA Labor Government's 2017 election commitment to scrap the destructive Perth Freight Link project.
"The road reservation has long been a barrier to planning for the Fremantle/ Cockburn area, and the finalisation of this amendment provides certainty to all stakeholders and the community that this road can no longer go ahead.
"The inclusion of urban-zoned land also enables a mixture of other local uses to be contemplated through subsequent stages of planning, with opportunities to boost housing supply and rejuvenate parts of the corridor."
WESTERN ROADS FEDERATION
by Cam Dumesny, CEO
Joint Defence and Civilian Industry Roundtable
Western Roads Federation have partnered with the Australian Logistics Council to hold a roundtable to explore joint opportunities for Defence and Industry collaboration to enhance supply chain and logistics resilience in response to evolving strategic and operational challenges. Key focus areas include:
• Resilient supply chains, logistics systems, and infrastructure
• Skills shortages and workforce development
• Knowledge acquisition and learning, particularly in emerging technologies such as AI, drones, and automation
Since 1945, Defence and Civilian logistics have largely operated in parallel. Given today's shifting geopolitical and economic landscape, this roundtable presents a unique opportunity to reexamine how both sectors can work together to address common challenges.
Key discussion points will include:
• What are the critical gaps that must be addressed to build long-term resilience?
• What innovative opportunities exist for renewed DefenceIndustry collaboration?
What Does That Really Mean
The Australian Government will spend between $14 billion and $18 billion upgrading and "hardening" defence bases across Australia's north, as the Australian Defence Force (ADF) pivots towards security threats in the Indo-Pacific region.
That is great, but how do you supply them, given our industrial heartland is mostly in Southeast Australia?
Defence is beginning to realise that is a problem, a problem our industry has long recognised.
There are opportunities to work together and we need to identify more.
For example, with their new Rheinmetall Trucks, ADF convoys (strictly speaking packets) need frequent rest areas for breaks. Can we work with them to build more and dual purpose the heavy vehicle rest areas we need? A bit like Sweden where parts of some highways are actually dual purposed as military airfields. It is easier to get funding if it's for a dual purpose.
There are a lot more examples.
Can we work with them to build more and dual purpose the heavy vehicle rest areas we need?
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator and Western Australia
There is a rumour that Western Australia is considering joining the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR).
Let’s start by saying that some in our industry have never let the facts get in the way of a rumour.
Western Australia is not joining the NHVR.
We have a constructive relationship with them probably better than most participating jurisdictions, but the Government is adamant at all levels we are not joining.
logging industry nationally. During the were conducted, and 117 resulted in one or non-compliance being identified. Mechanical was the highest category identified during the
Operations team undertakes evaluations of all local, state and national level. The findings evaluation process helps to inform identification of risk and guides future operational Currently the Analysis,
operational response to fatigue risks. This briefing the findings from Operation Zenith which was a run in 2022–23.
survey gives insight into how manage safety
NHVR Industry Safety Survey from June to to continue benchmarking safety performance, measuring the success of future initiatives management tool for identifying improvement
We do however work constructively with them. For example we are trying to align the 15 minute and 20 minute short break requirement that causes issues for some east-west operators and have the NHVR recognise WA HVS so companies don't need two accreditations.
Economic Cost to Western Australia
But the economic cost to WA would be immeasurable, as every single existing RAV network would be eliminated with the possible exception of state roads (less than 12% of the state road network).
Why, because under the Heavy Vehicle National Law every local government would have to be re-engaged, consulted and their approval given for each and every part
of the RAV network that passes through their council area. That means every local Government (138 of them) along a route that is off a highway must give their approval and that could take a few years.
It would be far more complex for OSOM moves.
There are other reasons, but a few points to think about are:
• Do you really think the Mining and Agriculture Industries will support WA joining the NHVR if it means the loss of the RAV network and the increased costs that would flow through to each of them?
• There are at least two states that have at both political and bureaucratic level expressed regret at joining the NHVR due to the bureaucratic overlay and economic cost to their State.
In defence of NHVR, the issue is not their fault; rather it is the inept design of the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) in the first place. Despite a collective industry effort over the last few years, the HVNL law review by the National Transport Commission has delivered only a bit of tinkering at the edges. It did not address the fundamental flaws in the HVNL design.
measured important matters and informed us improve our services, including by gathering data on: uptake and usefulness of the NHVR materials acceptance and understanding of heavy vehicle safety method of contact for stakeholders to receive information from us sources of information or Responsibility ( survey responses from industry stakeholders Key findings included: Implementation of a basic two-thirds (65%) of industry respondents indicated basic improvement since 2020 (63%). Businesses with 11 to have the highest implementation rate (70%), organisations of all sizes are relatively consistent in implementation.
Stars Need to Align for Live Sheep Export Co-Design Workshops to Have an Impact
Participation in the Federal Government’s live sheep export phase-out co-design workshops has been a frustrating experience.
The LRTAWA has attended the workshops in good faith to make sure our members’ interests were looked after – to highlight the risks and to seek the
opportunities, but it is hard to be confident about the outcome. This is not a reflection on the facilitators who are doing the best with the hand they have been dealt, but the reality of what can be achieved in the necessary time is another thing altogether.
The agricultural industry in its entirety has spent many hours writing submissions
and taking part in inquiries. Through all those processes the same points have been made about what is needed for the Western Australian sheep industry to survive and for rural transporters to survive as a result.
It’s a bit like ‘Groundhog Day’ and we can be forgiven for claiming that no-one is listening.
Heather Jones recognised with Outstanding Company Initiative Award
Congratulations to Heather Jones of Pilbara Heavy Haulage Girls Group for winning the “Outstanding Company Initiative Award” for her Road Train Traineeship Program; a collaboration with Fortescue and RedArrow at the Chamber of Minerals and Energy awards night 2025. Everyone who knows Heather knows how much she deserves this and all recognition for her hard work which benefits our industry and the new people she brings into it.
LRTAWA by Ben Sutherland, President Livestock and Rural Transport Association of Western Australia (Inc)
Unfortunately, the timing is wrong. This work should have been completed prior to the decision to phase-out live sheep exports by sea being made.
Confidence has been knocked out of the WA sheep industry and transport businesses are making decisions about their future now. They can’t afford to wait, while their equipment loses value and the equity in their businesses evaporates. They can’t afford to wait for a transition process that has not got off the ground and shows no signs of delivering any real benefit for their businesses or the communities they live in the short to medium term.
With a 25% drop in WA’s sheep flock, rural transporters are being badly affected.
The void is not being filled by an already inadequate processing sector or by transporting sheep to other states and we know it is only going to get worse with another 25% drop in sheep numbers on the horizon.
Even if the sheep industry miraculously recovers, it will be too late for many rural transporters. Primary producers will find they don’t have access to professional transporters in their area and their costs will increase.
The majority of the suggestions to assist producers and the supply chain require a long lead time for implementation.
It is questionable if the government has the tenacity to cut through the noise and rapidly make inroads towards reforms that will go some way to ameliorating the impact of this disastrous decision. Those in the transport industry have all too often experienced strategic inaction on the basis of the solution to a problem being another jurisdiction’s remit.
This type of ‘buck passing’ cannot be allowed on this issue. The stakes are too high. All jurisdictions must work constructively together towards a common goal if there is any chance of salvaging what is left of the WA sheep industry.
It remains to be seen if the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry is the best organisation to lead these discussions as to date they don’t seem to have heard what has been said.
Time will tell if there is a genuine desire to support the supply chain and service providers such as transporters and shearers.
Make no mistake though, we remain opposed to the ban on live sheep exports by sea.
LRTAWA Raffle
Last year the LRTAWA was fortunate to raffle an Evertrans drop deck trailer with Hendrickson INTRAAX suspension and TIREMAAX tyre management system. Second prize was a travel voucher and third prize a fuel voucher from Great Southern Fuels.
Confidence has been knocked out of the WA sheep industry and transport businesses are making decisions about their future now. They can’t afford to wait, while their equipment loses value and the equity in their businesses evaporates.
The raffle was drawn on the 15th January and the lucky winner of the trailer was Josh Herbert from Great Eastern Freightlines. Second prize was won by Brian Appleton and third prize by Kelvin Kneebone.
Congratulations to all the winners and a huge thank you to everyone who bought tickets. We also greatly appreciate the companies that contributed to the prizes.
Ben Sutherland and the aptly named ‘The Last Straw’
LRTAWA’s Jan Cooper with Josh Herbert collecting the trailer
Cook Government to enter negotiations to secure control of the freight rail network
After 25 years under private control, the Cook Government will commence negotiations to bring the State's freight rail network back into Government hands.
The freight rail network was privatised by the Liberal National Government in 2000, but with key Western Australian industries growing significantly in recent years, particularly record grain harvests, the demands on the network are at record highs.
Under the existing lease agreement, which has another 24 years to run, the Western Australian Government has little capacity to directly support key industries that make use of the State's freight rail network, or deliver important policy objectives.
Greater public control would allow for greater and more targeted Government investment, and increase usage of the freight rail network, delivering significant benefits including:
• increasing the use of the rail network to meet the demand being driven by new resource projects and growth in output from the agriculture sector, supporting future WA jobs;
• improved safety on roads, by reducing the amount of trucks;
• cost savings for industry through the more efficient movement of grain and commodities to and from the State's ports, to ensure WA remains globally competitive;
• ability to improve the frequency and journey times for regional rail services, like the Australind, with the Government being able to upgrade
tracks, and build passing loops;
• greater flexibility for regional communities, who have been prohibited and limited in relation to what activities they can undertake in close proximity to rail corridors;
• greater involvement and potential partnerships with local WA businesses; and
• more opportunities for tourism investment, particularly tracks that are underutilised or under care and maintenance.
The State Government has written to the current rail operator Arc Infrastructure to advise of the intention to enter negotiations to return the freight rail network back to public hands.
Government will progress negotiations with Arc Infrastructure and will make a final decision if it is economically and financially responsible to do so.
The Director General of Transport will establish a team to commence negotiations, with the State Government open to all options, including a staged return to public ownership.
Premier Roger Cook said, “Supporting the growth of our critical industries is a key priority for our Government and bringing freight rail back into public hands is a key way we can do that.
“The demands on the State’s freight rail network have grown significantly and we want to make sure we’re moving as much by rail to and from our ports as possible.”
Australian Dangerous Goods Code updated
At the end of 2024, the National Transport Commission (NTC) and the Competent Authorities Panel (CAP) finalised the 2024 edition of the Australian and New Zealand Emergency Response Guide Book (ANZ-ERG 2024). This is based on the updated 2024 ERG released by Canutec.
A digital copy of the Australian and New Zealand Emergency Response Guidebook 2024 is available to view for free, and hard copies can be purchased on the NTC website. To view the digital copy visit https://www.ntc.gov.au/codes-andguidelines/australian-dangerousgoods-code
The definition of emergency information in the ADG Code means that either of the ANZ-ERG 2024 or the ANZ-ERG 2021 are valid emergency information while ADG 7.9 is in effect.
However, the earlier AERG 2018 (from CAP and NTC) and the HB 76 (from Standards Australia) are no longer acceptable for use as emergency information under the current ADG Code. These contain outdated information and should be replaced as soon as possible.
Wilman Wadandi Highway busting congestion for Bunbury
Main Roads data has shown the early positive impact of the new Wilman Wadandi Highway (Bunbury Outer Ring Road), with significant reductions in volumes of traffic on the old Robertson Drive-Bussell Highway bypass.
In the days leading up to the opening of the new road, Forrest Highway leading into Bunbury was being used by 20,000 to 25,000 vehicles per day, while the Bussell Highway leading into Bunbury was
being used by 20,000 to 24,000 vehicles daily.
Data from the first two weeks of the new road, showed traffic volumes on the same stretches of road were hovering between 8,000 and 13,000 per day.
The significant reduction in traffic volumes has helped to ease congestion, improve travel times and made the local road network safer for Bunbury and surrounding communities.
Meanwhile, traffic data from Wilman Wadandi Highway was strong across the first
two weeks, with daily volumes ranging between 11,000 and 18,000 vehicles per day.
Commuters using the new the new road to travel to the South West are now avoiding 13 sets of traffic lights, making the journey smoother and easier.
Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said, "Before the opening of this road, locals around Bunbury were forced to compete with tourist and freight traffic moving to and from the South West, but that's now a thing of the past.
Phase out live sheep exports by sea - Transition Advocate appointed
Dr Chris Rodwell will be the Transition Advocate for the Albanese Labor Government’s phase out of live sheep exports by sea.
Dr Rodwell’s long and distinguished career has specialised in agricultural exports, animal welfare, disease preparedness and biosecurity.
He has most recently been engaged by the CSIRO, working at the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness and has held senior roles in the Western Australian, Commonwealth and New Zealand governments. He is based in Western Australia.
The Australian Parliament has passed laws to end live sheep exports by sea by 1 May 2028.
The Government has announced a $139.7 million transition assistance package to assist individuals, communities and businesses as they transition towards 2028.
Funded as part of the transition package, the Transition Advocate will facilitate two-way communication between industry and government, provide information to industry about the transition plan and assistance, and provide advice to
government on how the transition is progressing.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins MP said, “Dr Chris Rodwell’s role will be important in achieving a successful transition to the end of the trade.
“Dr Rodwell will play a critical role linking stakeholders, producers and the supply chain to government.
“We are investing in the transition of the Australian sheep supply chain, growing the sheep meat industry, maintaining Australia’s commitment to animal welfare and increasing national and export trade markets.
Peter Dutton has said that under his leadership the Liberal Nationals Coalition would stand up for critical industries including the live sheep trade if elected.
“We’ve got the sheep export industries back – and we’ll ensure that upholding the highest standards of animal health and welfare occurs, whilst supporting a sustainable live export trade.
“We will be standing up for what’s in WA’s best interests,” he said.
Australia should keep its technical design rules for trucks and heavy trailers
Australia should keep its technical design rules for trucks and heavy trailers, but completely harmonise its light vehicle rules with international standards, ATA Chair Mark Parry said.
Mark was releasing the ATA submission to the Government’s review of Australian Design Rule (ADR) harmonisation. The ADRs are technical standards that apply to new and used vehicles being provided to the Australian market for the first time.
Mark said Australia must retain its own design rules for heavy vehicles.
“Australia is the world leader in allowing long and heavy vehicles onto the road network. We have specific ADRs for issues relating to mass and the design of vehicles used in B-doubles and road trains. Other ADRs include technical requirements based on the needs of multi-combination vehicle users,” he said.
“In addition, Australia has a domestic truck and trailer manufacturing industry that provides an individual and customised product to the Australian market.
“Businesses that choose to purchase Australian built trucks and trailers for the long haul market, hostile environments or heavy haulage applications chose those vehicles because they suit their business needs.
“While the heavy vehicle ADRs should be harmonised with the United Nations regulations wherever possible, their development needs to evolve at a pace that can be met by Australia’s local manufacturers and international suppliers who develop specific Australian models,” he said.
Mark said that Australia’s light vehicle ADRs should be completely harmonised with the UN regulations, to enable global vehicle manufacturers to release new vehicles into our market with the latest technologies in a shorter time frame at lower cost.
“Light vehicles approved for release into the market would meet the latest global safety and emission standards. Australia would continue to have input into these global standards through the international standards development process,” he said. To read the ATA submission visit www. truck.net.au/advocacy/submissions/adrharmonisation-review
Determining the most appropriate wage rate under the Long Distance Award
One of the most common enquiries Natroad HR advisors receive is about wages under the Road Transport (Long Distance Operations) Award 2020.
In particular, Natroad members ask, ‘what wage is appropriate for a driver on a particular licence’ (e.g. HC licence)?
The Road Transport Award is different from others because the grades are based on the type and size of vehicle the person is driving rather than the licence they hold.
To make it easier, Natroad have created a summary of the grade and relevant wage based on the current Award.
Road Transport (Long Distance Operations) Award 2020
Pay rates as at 1 July 2024 for a full-time driver
Note: If the driver is casual, you will need to add on casual loading. Note: Does not include any other allowances the driver may be entitled to.
1 and 2 NOTE: Grade levels in this award align with equivalent grade levels in the Road Transport and Distribution Award 2020. Grades 1 and 2 are not applicable to this award.
3 Driver of 2 axle rigid vehicle up to 13.9 tonnes GVM. Capacity up to 8
4 Driver of 3 axle rigid vehicle over 13.9 tonnes GVM. Capacity over 8 and up to 12
5 Driver of 4 axle rigid vehicle over 13.9 tonnes GVM. Driver of rigid vehicle and heavy trailer combination with GCM of 22.4 tonnes or less. Driver of articulated vehicle with GCM of 22.4 tonnes or less. Capacity over 12 tonnes
6 Driver of rigid vehicle and heavy trailer combination with GCM over 22.4 tonnes but not more than 42.5 tonnes. Driver of articulated vehicle with GCM over 22.4 tonnes. Driver of low loader (as defined) with GCM of 43 tonnes or less. Capacity up to 24 tonnes.
7 Driver of rigid vehicle and heavy trailer combination with GCM over 42.5 tonnes but not more than 53.4 tonnes. Driver of double articulated vehicle with GCM 53.4 tonnes or less (includes B doubles). Driver of low loader (as defined) with GCM over 43 tonnes.
8 Driver of rigid vehicle and trailer(s) or double articulated vehicle with GCM over 53.4 tonnes (includes B-doubles). Multi-axle trailing equipment up to 70 tonnes capacity.
9 Driver of road train or triple articulated vehicle exceeding 94 tonnes GCM.
10
Automotive industry calls for a balanced approach to apprenticeship
support
The Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA) is urging the Federal Government to expand its targeted $10,000 construction apprenticeship bonus, advocating instead for a comprehensive approach that supports skills development across all essential trades that have been identified to be in shortage.
“While we welcome government initiatives to boost apprenticeship numbers, we need a strategy that strengthens Australia’s entire skilled workforce,” said Matt Hobbs, MTAA CEO.
“Recent data shows concerning trends in automotive apprenticeship enrolments, with some states reporting – Light Vehicle mechanics down 22%, Heavy Commercial Vehicle 34%, and Automotive Electrical Technology down 35% compared to this time last year. All these trades are in short supply.”
The automotive industry, which contributes over $37 billion annually to the Australian economy, is experiencing unprecedented technological transformation with the rise of electric vehicles and advanced automotive technology.
“The next generation of automotive technicians will be working with some of the most sophisticated technology in any trade,” Mr Hobbs said. “We need to ensure career pathways into automotive
trades remain attractive and accessible to support Australia’s transition to new mobility technologies. The Government has acknowledged this with support for EVs”
The MTAA believes a more strategic approach would involve industry-wide consultation to develop apprenticeship incentives that reflect the evolving needs of Australia’s economy.
“This isn’t about choosing between building houses and maintaining vehicles – both are essential to Australia’s future,” Mr Hobbs added. “We’re calling for a balanced policy approach that recognises the strategic importance of developing skills across the economy that are in short supply – which includes the automotive industry.”
The MTAA looks forward to working with the government to develop comprehensive solutions that support sustainable skills development across Australia’s essential trade industries.
We need a strategy that strengthens Australia's entire skilled workforce
LAURENCE RANDOLPH GILL
Laurence Randolph Gill (better known as Larry) was born in September 1948 in Como, Western Australia, the youngest of three children.
From when he was a young boy, Larry had always wanted to be a truckie. He was first employed by Dowerin Shire Council, north east of Perth in Western Australia and obtained his truck driver’s licence at the age of 18.
In 1969 Larry moved north to Port Hedland to work for Bell Brothers – at the time this was his dream job as he thought they had the “biggest and best trucks”.
After years of working in the northwest of the state, Larry moved back to Perth and honed his salesman skills selling machinery with Isas and Max Winkless’ Volvo.
In 1978, Larry started his own business, Gill’s Commercial Truck Sales.
Larry’s love affair with trucks took an unexpected turn when he became interested in Tatra, an off-road truck built in the Czech Republic. Larry discovered these beasts by chance, reading about the company involved with Skoda, in a Czech magazine.
The Tatra technology was nothing like he had seen before, with a unique independent suspension and amazing offroad abilities. Larry saw a huge potential for the brand and enquired about the possibility of bringing them to Australia.
After many difficult long distance phone
calls and faxes, all in broken English, Larry managed to negotiate a deal with Tatra and flew to Europe to visit the factory.
Larry opened the first Australian Tatra dealership, Offroad Trucks Australia, in Perth in 1996, offering full servicing facilities and dedicated spare parts to their customers.
Larry’s determination, stubbornness and vision saw Offroad Trucks Australia expand exponentially over the years and a branch was opened in both Queensland and New South Wales.
Offroad Trucks Australia has sold vehicles to industries such as mining, drilling, farming and emergency services.
2021 marked the 25-year anniversary of Tatras presence in Australia. Over this time, Offroad Trucks Australia sold almost 700 Tatra trucks to companies such as BHP, Roy Hill Mine and Rio Tinto. They also sold Fire and Emergency vehicles for mine sites and the WA Department of Fire and Emergency Services.
Offroad Trucks Australia has been pivotal in changing the mind set of ‘fit for purpose’ trucks and has pushed awareness and recognition of lesser-known heavy vehicles by working with organisations such as Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia and
Australia Design Regulations to implement improvements and rule changes.
From 2016, Larry suffered ongoing medical issues but he was still in the office every day. Sadly, in March 2022, Larry passed away, leaving his adored wife, Gerry, and their family as well as the business he loved.
Highly respected, Larry was known as a driven, forward-thinking man whose enthusiasm for the Tatra brand was infectious.
Upon his passing, he was remembered and his life celebrated by hundreds of industry colleagues, customers and friends across Australia who recognised his passion, enthusiasm and love of the Australian Transport Industry.
Larry’s love affair with trucks took an unexpected turn when he became interested in Tatra, an offroad truck built in the Czech Republic
(left) From 2021, Offroad Trucks Australia MD Amber Gaden, Owner Larry Gill and wife Gerry Gill.
New Report Calls for Boosting Women’s Employment and Leadership in the Transport Sector
Anew report calls for a greater focus on women's employment in transport and proposes actionable steps to address barriers to women's education, employment, and promotion in the sector.
The report, titled Addressing Barriers to Women’s Participation in Transport, covers global trends and provides in-
depth analysis of the women’s role in the transport sector.
Women are significantly underrepresented in the global transport sector workforce, comprising only 12% of transportation and storage workers worldwide. This underrepresentation limits diverse perspectives in service design
and decision-making, negatively affects businesses and undermines economic growth. Increasing female participation and leadership in the sector can drive innovation, enhance team performance, and improve service delivery for diverse users, while boosting GDP and addressing critical labor shortages.
The report emphasizes that employing more women in transport is essential for advancing towards greener, safer, and more efficient transport systems. Achieving gender parity enhances the performance and decision-making capabilities of transport companies and yields substantial benefits for workers and service users.
The report identifies several critical barriers to women’s participation in the transport sector, including unfavourable workplace policies and significant gender gaps in operational, technical and leadership roles.
To address these challenges, the report makes tailored recommendations for policymakers, public and private sector employers, educational institutions, civil society organizations, foundations, and other stakeholders. The recommendations are provided across the following pillars: attraction and recruitment, HR policies and practices, retention, career advancement, and leadership, legal and policy framework, data collection and research.
Instatruck Driver App - Onboarding and Performance Enhancements
Instatruck have announced a significant update to the Instatruck Driver App, which launched on February 3, 2025.
This update introduces a game-changing in-app driver onboarding feature, allowing new drivers to complete the entire sign-up process directly within the app—making it easier and more secure than ever to get on the road and start earning.
This update also includes bug fixes and performance enhancements to deliver a smoother, more reliable experience for all drivers, in addition to the new streamlined in-app onboarding and is available on the Apple and Google Play stores.
Tony Tascone, CEO of Instatruck, shared his excitement about this innovation, “At Instatruck, we're always looking for ways to simplify the driver experience and make the process safer and more efficient. Our latest driver app
update eliminates unnecessary delays, allowing new drivers to sign up, upload documents and get approved to drive seamlessly—all within a secure and userfriendly app. This is just one of the many ways we’re innovating to support our driver community.”
Instatruck was the winner of the WA Innovator of the Year 2016 in the Growth Category and was founded in 2016 by Siobhan Lancaster and David Blomeley in Perth, Western Australia, with the idea of a digital truck-matching platform for ondemand and last-mile deliveries. Instatruck is changing the way businesses and consumers move goods. It's shaking up the logistics and transport industries through its innovative truck matching platform, which has an easy-to-use interface that makes booking trucks quick and easy for businesses and consumers.
The Instatruck logistics platform offers unmatched agility, making business deliveries run smoothly and allowing shippers to transport goods faster than ever before. The Instatruck community of drivers can find the next job instantly, working to suit their lifestyle and keep the wheels turning. Customers are also happier than ever to receive their goods at a specified time rather than during an hours-long ‘delivery window’. Loads better for everyone.
Instatruck Stats: 100,000+ loads delivered, 3000+ client base, 5,000,000+ km travelled (total as of January 2025) The Instatruck Driver App is available in the Apple and Google Play stores. The Instatruck website has more information at instatruck.com.au/driving-forinstatruck/ and instatruck.com.au/ onboarding-process/
Nationals will legislate enhanced train visibility
By LARA JENSEN
Shadow Transport Minister and Leader of the Nationals WA, Shane Love has announced his election commitment to mandate rotating beacons, side lighting, and enhanced reflectors on all trains and rolling stock.
At a media conference on 14 January 2025, Mr Love said that the Nationals WA in Government would legislate critical rail safety measures to enhance train visibility and save lives across Western Australia.
I commend Mr Love and the WA Nationals team for committing to address this glaring gap in safety standards that has disproportionately affected regional communities for far too long and leaves rail transport less visible than other vehicles on our roads. These lighting improvements are vital in preventing collisions at Australia’s 23,000 railway level crossings, 80% of which are passive and lack active warning systems or boom gates.
The Nationals policy aligns with
recommendations from the Australasian Centre for Rail
Innovation (ACRI) Freight Train Visibility Review (2021) and the Monash Institute of Railway Technology (MIRT) report (2023), both of which advocate for strobe lights and rotating beacons on trains.
“Everyone has the right to get home safely. The importance of train visibility is no different from vehicle visibility—we have stronger laws for bicycle lighting than we do for trains, and that must change,” Mr. Love said.
“In remote and regional areas, where poor lighting and increased hazards make visibility crucial, this common-sense solution is long overdue.”
“Our preferred approach is to see these changes implemented through national regulation, ensuring the highest possible standard of rail safety across Australia.
“However, if the RailFail campaign
Shadow Transport Minister and Leader of the Nationals WA, Shane Love has
announced his election commitment to mandate rotating beacons, side lighting, and enhanced
reflectors on all trains and rolling stock
for national reform does not succeed, The Nationals will lead the way and act independently within our first term of government to prioritise the safety of all Western Australians.” Mr Love said.
To implement these vital changes, The Nationals in Government will amend the Rail Safety National Law Application Act 2024 to enforce mandatory lighting and visibility standards for trains and rolling stock.
Mr Love’s election commitment comes after the Leader of the WA Liberal Party, Libby Mettam publicly threw her support behind the Rail Fail campaign (a public safety campaign created by the families of rail crash victims around Australia I represent) in the final sitting week of the WA Parliament for 2024 at a media briefing I attended at Parliament House with independent rail and road safety researcher Dr Brett Hughes who is supporting our families’ efforts for rail safety reform around Australia.
Current regulations hold bicycles to a higher lighting standard than the largest and heaviest vehicles on land – trains and their rolling stock. It is a discrepancy that is both illogical, unacceptable and extremely dangerous. A commitment to mandatory train lighting legislation demonstrates Mr Love’s dedication to the safety and wellbeing of all regional communities across WA.
I commend The Nationals WA for taking the lead on this essential safety reform and I have written to federal Shadow Transport Minister Senator Bridget Mc Kenzie and federal Leader of the Opposition Peter Dutton, appealing to them to progress the issue of train illumination and level crossing safety measures through their party policy platforms in the lead up to the federal election.
WA Shiny Big Rigs Cruise
By KEVIN TOOVEY
Matty Hill organised a twilight cruise via Facebook for WA Shiny Big Rigs near the end of 2024. Nearly 50 trucks turned up for the run from BP Kewdale to Hillary’s Boat Harbour. This included a run on the Graham Farmer Freeway and through the Poly Pipe, and then up to Karrinyup Road and across to West Coast Highway.
Hundreds of people lined the streets to cheer on the big rigs and they were very popular cruising up the highway in
the late afternoon.
After arriving at Hillary’s Boat Harbour just on sunset many more people came and looked at the trucks. Many thanks to CJD Equipment who brought the BBQ for a sausage sizzle.
This event was an extremely positive and goodwill gesture for the WA transport industry. A big thank you to Matty for organising this one and we are looking forward to the next.
The European line up
The 1976 Dodge next to G & C Hannah Transports very new Kenworths Peterbilt and Mack
More Kenworths
The Phantom and Matty Hill’s Kenworth Dodge and Kenworths in the dark
Henderson Haulage and Lumbars Transport
Western Star and Mack
Colourful line up
Part of the line up at BP Kewdale Christmas Lights on
A real Mack
CJD BBQ
Side tipper express
The History of the West Australian Road Transport Industry
By Russell McKinnon
From the April 11 One Voice: Long distance truck drivers who use caffeine to stay awake are 63 percent less likely to have a crash than drivers who don’t, according to a new study published this week. The study interviewed 1047 long-distance truck drivers between 2008 and 2011 in New South Wales and Western Australia, and compared results between drivers who had and had not crashed their vehicle in the last 12 months. The results showed that after factors such as age, health, sleep and driving schedules were accounted for, drivers who consumed any form of caffeine to stay awake were 63 percent less likely to have a crash.
From the April 11 One Voice: The Government should make an election commitment not to extend the carbon tax to trucking, the chairman of the Australian Trucking Association, David Simon, said last week at the National Press Club.
“In its Clean Energy Package, the Government announced that the fuel used by the trucking industry would not be subject to the carbon tax until mid-2014. The Government’s plan is that it would then reduce the fuel tax credits that trucking operators can claim by almost seven cents per litre in the first year. That’s a 27 percent tax hike. It would cost the industry more than half a billion dollars a year. It would be a massive shock for many trucking businesses, and they would not be able to respond.” Mr Simon said the Clean Energy Package was based on the assumption that businesses would respond to the carbon tax by reducing their use of energy or switching to renewables. It assumes that businesses that cannot do this would be able to increase their prices. This would, in turn, change their customers’ behaviour. Neither of these assumptions fit the commercial reality of the trucking industry,” he said.
WARTA held its annual awards evening at the Hyatt Regency, Perth on May 18 with a circus theme and a Ring Master as the Master of Ceremonies. Attended by 400 people, the transport
Long distance truck drivers who use caffeine to stay awake are 63 percent less likely to have a crash than drivers who don’t, according to a new study
industry awards covered seven areas, which were all well supported, especially the NTI Insurance Transport Woman of the Year, where WARTA received more than 20 nominations and the independent judging panel had its work cut out. Kellie Houlahan from Main Roads WA was the eventual winner, which recognised her project managing of the Over-Size Over-Mass (OSOM) Unit. The Western United Financial Services-sponsored School and Community Bus Driver of the Year was won by Peter Forrest, of Forrest’s Bus Service, which operates in the Williams and Boddington areas. Main Roads WA sponsored the Professional Pilot Operator of the Year Award, which went to Ian Fullerton. The BP Professional Driver of the Year Award was won by Gary DeaneSpread from Linfox. As a result of this award, Gary was nominated a finalist at the forthcoming Australian Trucking Association National Trucking Industry Awards. The Castrol Technical and Maintenance Excellence in the Workshop award went to Ben Muir from Warren Bus Service, in Manjimup. Kyle Sutherland from Cropline Haulage won the TWUSUPER Future Leaders Award. The Freight & Logistics Council of WA Most Outstanding Contribution to the WA Road Transport Industry was co-won by Pascal Felix from Main Roads WA and Ray Gannaway from Gannaway Bus and Coach Charter Service of Busselton.
The Federal Government entered into the final stage of discussions with heavy vehicle manufacturers and operators in April to mandate antilock braking systems (ABS) for heavy trucks, trailers and buses. The proposal is part of the National Heavy Vehicle Braking Strategy, which aims to introduce more modern braking systems into the Australian heavy vehicle fleet. ABS detects any tendency for wheels to lock during hard braking and automatically intervenes to prevent it happening, which can help keep heavy vehicles stable when in emergency braking situations.
The Livestock and Rural Transport Association of Western Australia (Inc) is the only transport association in WA specifically representing rural transporters.
We are a strong voice for rural WA, ensuring that policy decisions support the viability and safety of rural transporters, primary industry and the communities they service.
Members of the Management Committee are hands on business people, most of whom would drive a truck weekly and travel on nearly every road in WA’s 150,000 km road network in the course of a year.
This close proximity between transporting operations and the advisory role means that representatives of the Association are at the coal face and as such are able to provide that all too rare practical hands on advice in committees, consultative forums and meetings.
