NatRoad says it is welcoming of the flexibility in truck curfews occurring in Victoria
The National Road Transport Association (NatRoad) says Victoria’s revised approach to allowing heavy vehicles leeway with curfews is a step in the right direction.
The Victorian government has introduced a planning exemption as part of its return to COVID normal settings.
From late October 2022, the exemption allows deliveries of essential goods to premises one hour before and one hour after times specified in any planning permit condition.
This measure is being introduced for up to 24 months on a trial basis with comment invited from industry and local government.
“This is a win for common sense and will help ensure supermarket shelves remain stocked and pharmacies have medicines they need,” says NatRoad CEO Warren Clark.
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“It is a fact that supply lines remain under stress and that’s been exacerbated by the recent East Coast floods.
“It makes no sense for truck drivers to miss delivery cut-off times by a few minutes and have to wait until the following day.”
Clark says national research commissioned by NatRoad shows that 58 per cent of Australians are aware of curfews and six-in-ten would consider their removal if the pay-off was improved delivery of goods.
Victoria restored curfews in August following their suspension during the pandemic.