Owner-drivers and small fleet operators will next month go to the polls to elect new representatives to the ATA Council
Owner-drivers and small fleet operators will next month go to the polls two elect new representatives to the Australian Trucking Association (ATA) Council.
Nominations and voter registration will open January 12 and close February 9. The successful candidates will begin their positions at the next ATA Council meeting, which is scheduled for April 1.
ATA Chairman Trevor Martyn says the election gives owner drivers and small fleet operators a chance to play an active role in policy outcomes and the future of the trucking industry.
“The ATA Council sets the policy direction that the industry takes in our discussions with governments and regulators,” Martyn says.
“It deals with the critical issues that will determine our long term future, such as safety, the need for better regulation and fair taxes and charges.”
To be eligible to vote, owner drivers and operators must own or be purchasing or leasing one to five heavy vehicles.
Voters must also spend time driving trucks and registered on the electoral roll.
While voters do not need to be a member of an industry group to vote, nominees must be a part of one of the ATA’s member groups.
The ATA charges a $60 nomination fee, and candidates are free to submit a statement up to 500 words to voters detailing why they should be elected.
Once elected, representatives hold their position for two years and meet as part of the council four times a year in Canberra.
If there are more candidates than vacancies, the ACT Electoral Commission will conduct the election by postal ballot.
“The council consists of representatives of all our member organisations and companies, as well as the two members directly elected by owner drivers and small fleet operators,” Martyn says.
Frank Black currently represents owner-drivers, while Doug McMillan represents small fleet operators.