The Global Truck Driver Shortage Report from the International Road Transport Union (IRU)
shows a deepening driver shortage crisis globally.
The 2024 results revealed a growing problem: Australia was 28,000 driving positions short in 2024,
and one of the countries most affected by an ageing truck driver workforce.
The predicted global GDP growth reported will further exacerbate the problem, as higher economic output always
means a higher demand for truck drivers. In Australia road freight volumes are projected to grow by 77 percent by 2050.
NatRoad calls on all levels of government in Australia to demonstrate leadership and work together to urgently
address the driver shortage crisis and improve road safety. NatRoad has created its Road Freight Workforce Action Plan
that identifies opportunities to build a skilled truck driver workforce across all states and territories. Find out more here.
The 2025 edition of the IRU Annual Driver Shortage Survey is open until 30 October 2025. Click here to access the survey and help ensure the situation in Australia is represented in the 2025 global data.
