It's Time to Get Queensland Moving-Urgent Call for Road Infrastructure Investment

It’s Time to Get Queensland Moving: Urgent Call for Road Infrastructure Investment

Queensland, 17 October 2024 – The Queensland Trucking Association Ltd (QTA) is calling on the next Queensland Government to confront “hard truths” regarding the untapped freight productivity potential that has hindered the efficiency of our transport sector and the competitiveness of vital agricultural and manufacturing industries for the past 20 years.

In a 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. This oversight not only compromises safety but also drives up future costs for necessary adjustments,” said Mahon.

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:

1. Invest in Roads Built for Trucks: Design infrastructure to accommodate heavy vehicles, enhancing safety and efficiency.
2. Build Bridges to Connect Freight Networks: Upgrade crucial bridges to facilitate open up access for high productivity vehicles.
3. Invest in Industry-Led Training: Fully fund the Heavy Vehicle Driver Apprenticeship and support employers to provide on-the-job training.

“The road freight industry is the heartbeat of our communities, ensuring essential goods reach families and businesses across Queensland,” Mahon added. “Yet, our access for high productivity vehicles is constrained and remains severely limited due to outdated bridge infrastructure."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. “It’s not just about roads; it’s about building a framework for economic growth,” Mahon stated. “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.”

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 also said, "Currently the Heavy Vehicle Driver Apprenticeship in Queensland does not currently attract fully funded training subsidies. The QTA is asking for fair funding, equal to other professional trades."

"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.

We urge the next Queensland Government to make bold infrastructure investments that will ensure Queensland can thrive. It’s Time to Get Queensland Moving!

The full Election Blueprint can be downloaded here

For further information or to schedule an interview, please contact:

Gary Mahon, Chief Executive Officer QTA   |M  0418 736 802     |   E  gary@qta.com.au

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Note to Editors:

The Queensland Trucking Association Ltd advocates for the interests of the road freight industry, striving to enhance the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of transport within Queensland.