DELIVERING FOR THE DELIVERERS: SERVICES AND SUPPORT NETWORKS FOR TRUCKERS

A LIST OF INFORMATION, SERVICES AND SUPPORT ORGANISATIONS FOR TRANSPORT INDUSTRY WORKERS

You know your rig like the back of your hand, you rarely have to ask for directions, and you’ve seen the best and worst of this country from behind a steering wheel. But one thing you might not be aware of is the network of support services available to you as a driver. Trucking is the backbone of the Australian economy, but sometimes even the backbone needs support. Everything from mental health services, to advice around workplace issues, or simply a map of the rest stops on your new route are on offer. When you’re already juggling a full schedule, these things might get pushed to the side, or forgotten about completely, so we’ve compiled a list of the important resources available to transport workers.

News and regulation

• Nation-wide, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is the Australian government authority for heavy vehicle road transport.
• Truck Industry Council (TIC) is an independent organisation that provides technical and regulatory advice about heavy vehicles to the Australian government, with a focus on achieving safer, greener and more cost effective industry outcomes.
• Australian Trucking Association (ATA) is a peak body representing trucking operators with leading expertise in truck technology, which aims to improve the trucking industry’s safety, professionalism and viability.
• Transport Workers Union (TWU) is Australia’s national union for the transportation industry and advocates for safer workplaces for truck drivers, in addition to offering assistance during workplace disputes for its members.
• The National Transport Commission (NTC) is an independent statutory body that advises on the development of regulation and operational reform legislation. It’s a solid resource for those interested in the progress of vehicle automation.
• Transport Certification Australia (TCA) is a similar organisation, which provides information specifically related to trucking technologies. It’s also a key source of information for those interested in telematics.
• The National Road Transport Association (NATROAD) is a membership organisation and advocacy body for the road freight industry that can provide legal advice and representation.

Support and services

• The Trucking Support Agency is an organisation of truckers, for truckers, providing membership rewards among other benefits.
• The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) is a government organisation that exists to improve road safety and help road users in the event of an accident.
• Heads Up is an organisation that works in conjunction with Beyond Blue to conduct research and provide crucial mental health initiatives for truck drivers and workplaces in general.
• Trans-help is Australia’s only national charity that specifically supports transport personnel and their families, and is constantly advocating for the rights of truck drivers.
• Transport Women is the representational body for women within the transport industry.
• Dads in Distress operates a helpline and group counselling services for separated fathers with children.
• Road Trauma Support is a Tasmanian organisation that provides free counselling services, specialising in supporting drivers who have been involved in or affected by a road accident.
• Road Trauma Support Services Victoria contributes to the safety and wellbeing of road users in Victoria through free counselling services for road users.
• National Transport Insurance (NTI) Truck Assist is a roadside assistance program for commercial heavy vehicles, offers a 24 hour service, and has been the market leader in this service since 2006.

Industry information

The following sources of information provide statistics and analysis of the Australian transport industry.

• IBIS World is a source of industry reports and trend analysis.
• The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) collects data on the transport industry that’s accessible to the public.
• Darren Chester, the Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport has an official government website that provides up-to-date information on developments within the transport industry.

Truck stops and rest areas

The following links provide maps and information for truck stops, roadside facilities and rest areas in each state listed:

• Victoria
• New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory
• Queensland
• Western Australia
• South Australia
• Northern Territory
• Tasmania

Heritage and memorial services

• National Road Transport Hall of Fame is a volunteer based project and historical society dedicated to the preservation and presentation of Australia’s road transport heritage.
• Australian Truck Drivers Memorial (Tarcutta) is a memorial wall and garden in Tarcutta, NSW, that provides a lasting place of reflection and remembrance for truck drivers who have died during their careers.
• Lights on the Hill – named after Slim Dusty’s trucking anthem – is a Queensland memorial and non-for-profit organisation dedicated to the hard working members of the Australian transport industry.

Whether you’re just starting out, or are a lifetime trucking enthusiast, this collection of resources and services can provide a referral point for any trucker looking to learn more about their industry.