The Federal Government will move to shield road transport operators from rising fuel costs.
Under the proposed amendment, trucking businesses and drivers will be able to make an emergency application for a contract chain order through the Fair Work Commission, allowing faster renegotiation of rates across the supply chain to reflect rising fuel costs.
Currently, contract chain orders require a minimum six-month period. The change would remove that delay, enabling quicker intervention to ensure operators are not left absorbing sudden cost increases.
The Fair Work Commission has the authority to require transport clients. including retailers, manufacturers and mining companies, to offer fairer contract terms, helping ensure operators are adequately compensated for fuel expenses.
Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Amanda Rishworth, said the reform is designed to improve fairness across the sector during a period of global instability.
“The Albanese Government is again stepping up to help create fairness through the supply chain and manage the impacts of global fuel challenges,” she said.
“Truckies and transport operators need to be protected from fuel price rises and it’s important that costs are shared fairly through the supply chain.
“We are making sure the independent Fair Work Commission can act quickly to deal with these issues.
“Truck drivers and businesses are a critical part of Australia’s daily economy, ensuring food and goods are delivered where needed, and we have their backs.”
Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said the changes recognise the essential role of the trucking industry.
“Without trucks, the movement of essential supplies across Australia stops,” she said.
“Fuel price spikes are affecting everyone, but no one is feeling it more acutely than those whose day-jobs and livelihoods are behind the wheel of heavy vehicles.
“That’s why we’re making it easier for them to renegotiate how costs are shared across the supply chain.
“It’ll mean truckies can get back to moving the items we need, without worrying about their business stalling due to rising costs.”
In other news, Boral has appointed a new CEO.
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