The Queensland Trucking Association (QTA) has issued an “urgent plea” to the state government for financial support to be provided to the road freight industry.
Due to another bout of ongoing severe weather and flooding across north and north-west Queensland, the QTA is calling for the Queensland government to provide immediate subsidy support to the sector.
The call comes as the association warns that without intervention, essential supply chains are at risk and local economies will face disruptions.
The current wet season has left many truck fleets immobilised for more than 10 days, leading to daily losses for businesses ranging from an estimated $10,000 to $80,000, depending on fleet size.
QTA CEO Gary Mahon says this situation is exacerbating existing economic pressures on an industry already operating with tight margins.
“The road freight industry is the backbone of our economy and the lifeline for communities, particularly in regional Queensland,” he says.
“When our trucks can’t move, essential goods don’t reach supermarkets, hospitals, hotels and remote communities. This isn’t just about trucking businesses; it’s about the availability of food, medicine and critical supplies for every Queenslander.”
The QTA says the far-reaching impacts extend beyond truck operators, affecting the operations of local businesses such as hotels, motels, roadhouses, convenience stores and cafes that rely heavily on consistent deliveries.
Mahon says interruptions to freight drastically limit their ability to restock essential items, jeopardising their operations and the livelihoods of those who depend on them.
During the February 2025 flood event, he says fleets were forced to apply cost levies, ultimately increasing the cost of living in affected areas – a scenario that is likely to repeat this season without support.
Mahon says the inability to recover costs during disruptions places immense strain on businesses, many of which are major employers in regional areas, providing hundreds of local jobs. Without assistance, some may be forced to close, leading to job losses and diminished competition in the market.
“We are urging the government to recognise road freight as an essential service that underpins the very functioning of our communities and supports all other industries,” Mahon says.
“It is imperative that the government provides the necessary subsidy support to mitigate these financial losses, ensuring our industry can continue to operate effectively and deliver vital supplies during these emergencies. Supporting the trucking industry now will safeguard community resilience and contribute to the overall stability of our economy.”
Mahon says proactive financial support will ensure the viability of road freight operators and prevent broader economic and social ramifications across the state.