Freight People Day – Ensuring the future of the industry

Freight People Day is set to attract more big crowds in 2011. The Freight Week team has developed a program that is both practical and revealing.

“The program will provide information on the current and future trends in recruitment, how the industry is promoted and how we are working to change driver licensing laws,” said VTA CEO, Philip Lovel. “The afternoon session on industrial relations will cover all the vital issues managers need to know.

“Victoria’s transport, distribution and logistics industry employs more than 260,000 people and contributes more than 14 per cent to the Gross State Product. Plus it contributes to the success of just about every other industry. By supporting this industry and its workers we will boost productivity, innovation and competitiveness.”

Freight People Day will focus on recruitment and retention of staff in the Freight and Logistics Industry, as well as Industrial Relations and its impact on Human Resources in the freight industry. The freight and logistics industry is a “people” industry, therefore developing attraction, training and retaining strategies are vital to the workforce of the future.

The People Day session will focus on the following careers issues:

• Workforce planning
• Skills development
• Cadetships
• Driver licensing
• Training
• Industry promotion

During the afternoon on People Day, the focus will shift to industrial and employment relations. This session will provide information and advice on the latest Industrial relations issues, thus allowing delegates to walk away with an understanding of how the laws affect their business. “This afternoon is essential for all those who are concerned with managing their staff and operating in accordance with the legal framework introduced in 2009,” said VTA’s Industrial Advisor, Paul Ryan.

The following issues will be discussed in depth:

• Safe Rates – what is it and how will it impact your business?
• Counseling employees – how to avoid an unfair dismissal claim.
• Modern Awards – are you complying with your legal obligations?
• Superannuation
• Insurance
• Workers compensation/rehabilitation
• Health Programs

Freight People Day is a must attend event for those involved in Human Resources, Training and Education, Industrial Relations, Line Operational Managers and for people that want to be involved in the future of the industry.

Freight Week 2011 is hosted by the Victorian Transport Association together with the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce, and will be held from Monday 5th to Friday 9th September 2011 at the Melbourne Park Function Centre (Tennis Centre).

To find out more visit www.freightweek.com.au.