The National Road Transport Association (NatRoad) calls on the Queensland Government to extend the lifting of delivery curfews. Delivery curfews were temporarily lifted to assist with the increased demand in the retail sector due to the Covid pandemic and have been reimposed from 1 May 2021.
NatRoad asks the Queensland Government to follow the lead of the New South Wales Government, where NatRoad has successfully lobbied for the extension of the lifting of curfews until March next year. This will give the New South Wales Government time to research the appropriate conditions to be in place for a possible permanent removal of curfews in NSW.
“A 24/7 delivery schedule allows heavy vehicle drivers to make deliveries outside of peak hour times when the roads are less crowded,” said Mr Warren Clark, NatRoad CEO.
“Greater delivery flexibility will benefit all road users with less congestion on already busy roads, as commuters take to their cars to avoid public transport. It is also benefits consumers by guaranteeing the timely delivery of supplies to retail outlets.
“Increased congestion, and limited delivery timeslots also interferes with truck drivers’ ability to manage their fatigue.
“We are still in the midst of a global pandemic where snap lock downs and associated panic buying can affect the community. Just this month WA imposed a lock down. Covid pandemic conditions still apply, and this should be recognised in the continuation of the lifting of curfews.”
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About NatRoad
With a proud history dating back to 1948, NatRoad operates to represent its members and advocates for the $96 billion road freight industry. With more than 45,000 trucking companies employing more than 140,000 people across the country, the road transport industry is one of Australia’s biggest economic drivers.
NatRoad is a not-for-profit Association that is 100% funded via its membership fees and business partnerships. No funding is provided by government or unions. We know the road transport industry. Our board is made up of individuals who run transport businesses and have members from owner-drivers to road freight and large fleet operators, representing all aspects of the industry. General freight, road trains, livestock, tippers, express, car carriers, as well as tankers and refrigerated operators.
Contact: [email protected]
1800 272 144
