Skills, safety and dimensions lead list, McCormack farewelled
Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia (HVIA) is looking forward to raising industry issues with Barnaby Joyce following his re-election as leader of the National Party and resultant return to the posts of deputy prime minister and transport minister.
HVIA chief executive Todd Hacking says his organisation wishes to connect with Joyce on a range of live issues.
“There are many topical issues, such as the implementation of the Road Vehicle Standards Act, truck and trailer width, road-safety advancement, red-tape reduction and the current hot-button issue of skills and labour shortage, all of which we look forward to discussing at our first opportunity,” Hacking says.
“HVIA has established strong, positive working relationships across all levels of government and its agencies to ensure the industry’s voice is heard and to hold government to account where necessary.
“We look forward to connecting with the deputy prime minister and his office on our strategic agenda including manufacturing, skills, safety, investment allowances, sustainability and more.
“As an industry, we strive wherever possible to present solutions rather than problems and we look forward to a positive, proactive and productive relationship to ensure our ‘essential industry’ continues its vital function for the broader economy.”
Read how Barnaby Joyce’s return was first greeted, here
Hacking goes on to highlight the achievements of the outgoing infrastructure minister Michael McCormack.
“The last eighteen months have seen more of a focus on road freight transport than just about any time in history,” Hacking says.
“Michael McCormack has worked closely with industry to ensure that borders stayed open, and to ensure the community recognised the vital role of the industry in keeping Australia moving.
“He also worked tirelessly to ensure investment in infrastructure whilst advocating for better safety outcomes, particularly notable through his leadership of the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program.
“We congratulate Mr McCormack on his term and his achievements and wish him the very best for the future.”