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 Street Address:
 Suite 1, 96 Cleveland Street
 Stones Corner QLD 4120
 Postal Address:
 PO Box 325, Stones Corner QLD 4120
 Phone: 07 3394 4388
 Facsimile: 07 3397 9324
 Email: admin@qta.com.au

 

 FACT SHEETS

2011

Queensland Government - TMR Legislative Change Fact Sheets

Flood Disaster

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2010 Fact Sheets

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Advice to Employees:  Apply for Disaster Income Recovery Subsidy

The Australian Government’s Disaster Income Recovery Subsidy is available to employees who can demonstrate they have experienced a loss of income as a direct result of the flooding and severe weather from November-February 2011, including Tropical Cyclone Yasi.

You must claim by 31st March 2011 to receive the subsidy (extended from 28th February 2011).

For more information download a copy of the Fact Sheet.

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Flood Assistance Fact Sheet for Small Trucking Businesses (Updated)

The ATA and Member Organisation's including the Queensland Trucking Association Ltd have released a fact sheet setting out the flood assistance for small trucking businesses available from the Australian, Queensland and New South Wales governments.

The Australian Government has announced a Disaster Income Recovery Subsidy of about $500 per fortnight for employees and small business operators who live in or derive an income from a flood affected area and have lost their income.

The Queensland and NSW governments have announced grant schemes for small businesses who have directly suffered damage to their premises and equipment as a result of the floods. Low interest rate loans are available for small businesses that have exhausted all other sources of finance.  The Australian, Queensland and NSW governments have also announced a range of hardship payments to help individuals and families.

QTA Ltd will continue to update its website to reflect decisions taken by both State and Federal Governments in relation to Flood Disaster Assistance.

The fact sheet is available to download here or by contacting the Association by email admin@qta.com.au or phoning 07 3394 4388.

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Request to Extend FIRS Arrangement Due to Cyclone Yasi
(23rd February 2011)

A request from the trucking industry through the General Manager, Emergency Management has been made asking that the Department of Transport & Main Roads (DTMR) give consideration to extending the FIRS exemption in the wake of cyclone Yasi.  Cyclone Yasi has caused extensive damage to the main rail network north of Townsville leaving Cairns and other centres totally dependent on truck freight until the line is reopen.  Current advice from Queensland Rail indicated that once the line opens it is expected that it will take at least a further week to clear the freight backlog.

If the insurers are supportive of this DTMR are proposing to allow the exemption to continue for freight operations north of Townsville for a period of 2 weeks concluding on Saturday 5th March.  QTA believes that provided the line can be opened this week that this time period will be sufficient to cover the task.

Members will recall that the Department of Transport & Main Roads lifted restrictions on the operation of FIRS registered vehicles in the re-supply and recovery phases of the State wide flooding event.

LATE BREAKING NEWS

QTA Ltd has been advised that insurers have indicated their support for extending the FIRS exemption in the wake of Cyclone Yasi.  It has been approved that the exemption be extended for FIRS vehicles undertaking delivery and pick-up activity for areas north from Townsville.  The exemption will remain in force up to and including Saturday 5th March.

 

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Continuation of the FIRS Exemptions
(28th January 2011)

The Transporter News Brief dated 20th January 2011 outlined the response by the Department of Transport and Main Roads in the Re-supply and Recovery tasks associated with recent flooding events, in permitting FIRS registered vehicles to be used on intra-state activities.  QTA Ltd is aware that many hundreds of vehicles, FIRS registered, have made significant contributions to the efficiency and productivity of the enormous task throughout Queensland in the flood recovery.  QTA Ltd congratulates the Department on their prompt response and acknowledges the decision set out in the following two paragraphs to extend the arrangement.

Following requests from food distribution and trucking organisations the permission for all FIRS registered vehicles to undertake intrastate delivery activities (both pick-up and delivery in the State of Queensland) associated with providing disaster relief, will be extended up to and including Friday 18th February 2011.  From Saturday 19th February 2011, this approval will expire and all normal requirements for FIRS registered vehicles will resume.

The Motor Accident Insurance Commission, the regulatory body for Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance in Queensland, has supported this decision.  They have received advice from their counterparts in the other states that they have no CTP insurance issues with their states' FIRS registered vehicles operating in Queensland under these arrangements.  However, owners need to contact their respective comprehensive insurers for all matters associated with this cover of insurance on their vehicles.

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Trucking Industry Relies on NTI
The trucking industry has not been spared in the recent natural disaster in Queensland with over 90 businesses insured by NTI affected.  In the last week NTI has been notified of 99 incidences, involving 155 items, to a value in excess of $6.7m.

Bolstering its resources on the ground, NTI has been able to settle over one third of these claims already, and aims to have settled over 75% of them by next week.

Gearing up our local claims staff, placing extra assessing staff in the field and paying on-the-spot electronic fund transfer settlements are some of the key elements that the company has immediately introduced to expedite the situation so that trucking businesses can get back on track.

Trauma counselling is also being used by a number of our customers who have gone through tough times.

NTI is focused on helping our affected operators get back on the road and getting the vital transport industry moving again.  Insurers should contact NTI via their broker or authorised representative or via the NTI Accident Assist (1800 NTI NOW) service to lodge a claim or request assistance.

The staff at NTI wish to offer their thoughts and sympathies to all those affected.

About NTI - National Transport Insurance is Australia’s truck insurance specialist providing comprehensive insurance coverage for transport operators in the heavy commercial motor market. NTI insures over $7 billion in assets, on behalf of over 16,000 policyholders.

PLEASE NOTE:  NTI ARE MOVING

On Monday 7th March 2011, NTI's National and Brisbane Offices will be moving.  Their new details will be: 
Physical:  Level 29, 400 George Street, Brisbane QLD 4000
Postal:  PO Box 13550, George Street, QLD 4003
Phone:  07 3292 9800 │ Fax:  07 3292 9900

 

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Free Legal Services on Offer to Flood Victims
Media Statement by Attorney-General and Minister for Industrial Relations, The Honourable Cameron Dick MP

Hundreds of lawyers from across the state will begin providing free legal advice to flood-affected Queenslanders trying to get their lives back on track.

Attorney-General Cameron Dick today praised the work of the legal profession and key community groups which had come together to establish Flood Legal Help, a service specifically offered to flood-affected Queenslanders.

"Legal practices large and small, including many from flood-affected areas, are making solicitors available on a pro bono basis to help people affected by the floods," Mr Dick said.

"Legal practitioners will be available for free consultations for flood victims in communities including Brisbane, Ipswich, Toowoomba, Rockhampton, Bundaberg, Chinchilla and Emerald."

Mr Dick said anyone who had been affected by floods could contact Flood Legal Help on 1300 65 11 88 for legal advice over the phone or to arrange a face-to-face consultation.

Alternatively, consultations could be arranged at any of the government's numerous community recovery centres.

For more information, contact Flood Legal Help on 1300 65 11 88 or by visiting http://www.floodlegalhelp.qld.gov.au.

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Tax Exemption for Business Assistance Payments Paid to Flood Victims
(Issued Friday 21st January 2011)

The Government has today announced that clean-up and recovery grants of up to $25,000, paid to primary producers and small businesses directly affected by the recent flooding that has occurred since 29 November 2010, will be exempt from tax.

Such grants would normally be treated as assessable income, with taxpayers able to claim deductions for the associated expenditure. However, in light of the extraordinary hardship suffered by those affected by the recent flooding, the Government has decided to make these payments non-assessable, non-exempt income. This ensures the grants are exempt from income tax, while also avoiding interactions with other areas of the income tax.

Assistant Treasurer, Bill Shorten, said "The Government does not want primary producers and businesses who have been directly affected by flooding to pay tax on key disaster assistance payments necessary for them to get back on their feet."

"The Federal Government did the same thing for the Victorian Bushfires, so it makes sense for us to offer the same exemption for flood victims."

The Government has also confirmed that the Disaster Income Recovery Subsidy, which was announced by the Prime Minister on 10 January 2011, to assist employees, small business persons and farmers who have lost their income as a direct consequence of the flooding, will also be tax exempt.

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FIRS Arrangements to Support Flood Relief

The following information has been provided by Department of Transport and Main Roads and is an example of the way in which the Department, in response to the work of the Roads and Transport Infrastructure Flood Recovery Committee, is prepared to cut through “red tape” to assist the industry servicing out customers and the Re-supply and Recovery tasks.

The permission for FIRS registered vehicles to undertake intrastate delivery activities (both pick-up and delivery in the State of Queensland) during the current state of emergency applies to all FIRS registered vehicles associated with providing disaster relief, up to and including 31st January 2011.  This arrangement will be reviewed at this time.

The Motor Accident Insurance Commission, the regulatory body for Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance in Queensland, supports this decision and has received advice from their counterparts in the other states that they have no CTP insurance issues with their states' FIRS registered vehicles operating in Queensland under these arrangements.  However, owners need to contact their respective insurers for all matters associated with any form of comprehensive insurance on these vehicles.

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Workplace Health & Safety for Repairs after Floods

Workplace Health & Safety Qld have published some good general guidance material on safety issues to consider when cleaning up after the floods.  Their website has been a bit difficult to access over the last few days (high volumes of traffic we suspect), so we have cut and pasted the relevant sections and included them in the information below.  

It's important to stay safe while repairing property after flooding. Below is a check list for approaching all work safely, followed by more detailed information on specific tasks.

The entire article can be found at http://www.deir.qld.gov.au/workplace/subjects/floods/index.htm

Compliance with workplace health and safety laws during the flood clean up phase

Steps for planning to do work safely

Working at a height

Demolition

Asbestos - removal of, and work on asbestos containing materials

Slips, trips and falls

Biological hazards

Fatigue management

Displaced fauna

Quad bike use

Operating wheeled or tracked machinery in the wet

Contact WHSQ

Compliance with workplace health and safety laws during the flood clean up phase

Workplace Health and Safety Queensland would like to remind employers and workers involved in the flood recovery effort to remember their obligations under Queensland's health and safety laws.

Workplace health and safety laws still apply and will be enforced during the flood clean up efforts. These laws are in place to protect Queenslanders and assist employers and workers manage health and safety risks, take reasonable precautions and exercise due care, particularly during Queensland's recovery. By being vigilant and maintaining safety during this difficult time, you can help reduce the risk of death, injury and infection.

There are a number of steps employers and workers can take to minimise risk to themselves, their staff and other people helping out, such as ensuring:

  • businesses subject to flooding should not attempt to use electricity until they have received clearance from an electrical contractor
  • appropriate personal protective equipment (e.g. rubber-soled shoes, gloves, hats, clothing covering skin while in the sun, high visibility vests if required) are made available and worn correctly
  • people take regular breaks, have access to clean drinking water to prevent dehydration, and food to minimise the risk of heat stress and fatigue first aid equipment is available before any work is undertaken
  • toilet facilities are accessible
  • ladders being used are on sturdy ground and where possible secured
  • good hygiene practices are used, such as washing of hands, and
  • strategies are in place to dispose of sharps and other clinical waste.

Flood-affected buildings could also contain damaged asbestos-containing materials that could pose a hazard when cleaning up.

Avoid breaking or abrading asbestos containing materials and avoid drilling or cutting asbestos containing materials using power tools. Advice on disposal of asbestos materials should be obtained from your local authority. Removal and disposal of any asbestos containing material over 10 sq. m must be done by a licensed contractor.

The recovery task following these devastating floods is distressing for all involved and will impact individuals differently. Employers should highlight counselling services available to staff and encourage them to use them.

Further information on managing the risks posed to business during the clean up can be obtained from the Workplace Health and Safety Infoline on 1300 369 915.

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Steps for planning to do work safely

  • Assess what work needs to be done.
  • Work out the order of the work to be done so that new risks are not introduced, e.g. think about how you will get access to the areas where the work is to be done, or the possibility of creating instability from removing things in the wrong order.
  • Consider what could go wrong during the repair work.
  • Work out what tools and equipment will be needed to do the work safely.
  • Check the correct equipment is available and is in good working order.
  • Check that the people required to operate the equipment have the right skills and competencies and ensure supervision of less skilled workers is available.
  • Check that people allocated to perform work are not fatigued.
  • Make sure that workers have the correct personal protective equipment and it is worn correctly.
  • Check that appropriate first aid is available and there is access to medical treatment in the event of an injury occurring.

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Working at a height

  • Install handrails if necessary, such as when working on a roof or from a platform above the ground where people are carrying out work that could cause them to fall, or the fall itself could cause a serious injury.
  • When using a ladder:

˗       make sure the ladder is sufficiently sturdy

˗       use the ladder for the purpose it was designed for

˗       try to secure ladders before use

˗       do not use a ladder on soggy/soft ground

  • Ensure surfaces are stable and access to areas with unstable floors is safe.
  • Be aware of anyone working below and the potential for things to fall on them.

Find more information about working at a height.

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Demolition

If demolition work is to be undertaken, check that it doesn't require a licensed demolisher to perform the work - call Workplace Health and Safety Infoline on 1300 369 915 for more information. If it does, ensure a person with the right licence is engaged.

If the work doesn't require a licensed demolisher, make sure the work is undertaken by people who understand the structure, or the part of the structure, they are demolishing.

Check the location of any underground, overhead or concealed services (e.g. gas, water, electricity) prior to commencing any demolition work.

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Asbestos - removal of, and work on asbestos containing materials

  • Buildings built before 1990 may contain asbestos materials. Removal of 10m² or more of asbestos containing material must be done by a licensed asbestos removalist.
  • Avoid removing asbestos materials unless absolutely necessary, e.g. only remove asbestos sheeting that is already broken and dislodged.
  • Avoid breaking asbestos material or abrading the surface of asbestos materials.
  • Avoid drilling or cutting asbestos materials using power tools.
  • Make sure asbestos materials are wet during removal and other work; isolate electricity to wet areas.
  • Wear disposable coveralls with a hood as well as an approved particulate respirator (Class P2 – this will be marked on the packaging) when removing asbestos.
  • Thoroughly wash hands, shower and wash hair after handling, or after suspecting you may have handled, asbestos materials.
  • Avoid walking on corrugated asbestos roofs as they may collapse from the weight.
  • Double bag/wrap all asbestos materials and waste and call your local authority regarding where to properly dispose of any asbestos products.
  • Safe work procedures including for low speed drill/hand drilling and hand sawing asbestos containing material, and the removal of less than 10m² of asbestos containing material, including wrapping waste and clean-up after the work is completed, can be found in: Asbestos: a home renovator's and tradesperson's guide for minor work in domestic premises guide (PDF, 1.6 MB).

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Slips, trips and falls

  • Keep work areas as clear and dry as possible.
  • Wear suitable footwear with good grip.
  • Try to avoid climbing on objects or surfaces; use equipment such as ladders or step stools wherever possible and safe.
  • Try to make sure there is adequate light in work areas.

Download the Guide for preventing slips trips and falls (PDF, 702 kB) and view other information on slips, trips and falls.

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Biological hazards

  • Maintain good personal hygiene practices to reduce risk of infection from contaminated sources.
  • Adopt standard precautions for contact with biological hazards, including hand hygiene, personal protective equipment, appropriate handling and disposal of sharps and other clinical waste.

More information about disaster management, including how to manage mould and other diseases, is available from Queensland Health.

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Fatigue management

  • Roster shifts so that workers/volunteers have the opportunity to sleep continuously for 7 to 8 hours in each 24 hour period.
  • Rotate shifts forward rather than back.
  • Limit number of consecutive night shifts to four.
  • Finish night shifts by eight am.
  • Allow a minimum of 12 hours between consecutive shifts.
  • Roster at least two full nights sleep after the last night shift.
  • Provide frequent rest breaks during shifts.
  • Provide transport where possible to minimise the risks associated with commuting.
  • Provide an area/room for workers/volunteers to sleep before commuting home.
  • Schedule safety critical and complex tasks during the daytime (when workers/volunteers are most alert).
  • Allow and encourage access to Employee Assistance Services as workers/volunteers require.

Download the fact sheet on Managing fatigue (PDF, 107 kB) and view other information about fatigue.

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Displaced fauna

  • Check in and under objects before attempting to move an object as snakes, spiders and other undomesticated animals may be taking refuge in the dry location. Startling these animals may cause them to become aggressive and attack. 
  • Do not attempt to kill snakes as most snake bite incidents occur when someone has attempted to strike and kill the snake.
  • Engage a wildlife removal specialist to remove snakes from buildings. 

Download the fact sheets on snakes (PDF, 58 kB) and spiders, scorpions and centipedes (PDF, 58 kB).

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Quad bike use

  • Wear an appropriate helmet.
  • Identify and assess potential hazards prior to attempting to cross any waterways, flooded or muddy terrain and be aware of washouts.
  • Operate quad bike at a safe speed suitable to the conditions.
  • Do not allow children or untrained, inexperienced people to operate quad bikes.
  • Be aware of hidden obstacles that may be covered by mud, debris, grass or water.

Download the fact sheet on Quad bikes on farms (PDF, 2 MB) and view other information about quad bikes.

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Operating wheeled or tracked machinery in the wet

  • Be aware of changed ground conditions which may increase the risk of roll over, bogging or loss of stability.
  • Take account of decreased vision due to rain, mud and other conditions.
  • Be aware of possible an unstable waterway, channel or dam.

Download the fact sheet on Tractors (PDF, 255 kB) and view other information about tractors.

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Contact WHSQ

For more information about other workplace health and safety issues, phone Workplace Health and Safety Infoline
on 1300 369 915.

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Flood Relief - Relaxation of Registration Requirements Under the FIRS Scheme

The following advice has been received from the Department of Transport & Main Roads (DTMR) re FIRS Vehicles

DTMR have considered a request for a relaxation of the registration requirement for vehicles registered under the FIRS scheme in the current Flood Recovery period, permitting these vehicle to undertake intrastate delivery activities during the current state of emergency.  The Department has taken the decision to grant permission for all FIRS registered vehicles to undertake both pick-up and delivery in the State of Queensland up to and including 31 January 2011. The arrangement will be reviewed at that date.

DTMR staff have also liaised with the Motor Accident Insurance Commission who has indicated support for the decision and has undertaken to advice insurers of the decision.

The Department will advise Queensland Police of this decision.

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Tax Office Defers BAS Deadline for Flood Affected Businesses

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has deferred the December Business Activity Statement deadline for flood affected businesses until 21st February 2011.  The normal deadline is 21st January 2011.

Businesses in identified flood affected postcodes will automatically receive the deferral. Other flood affected businesses can apply by phoning 1800 806 218.

For a list of the flood affected postcodes identified by the ATO, visit their website http://www.ato.gov.au/corporate/content.asp?doc=/content/00189316.htm

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Australian Government Disaster Income Recovery Subsidy

Under the Australian Government’s Disaster Income Recovery Subsidy, people who derive an income from or reside in a flood affected area and have suffered a loss of income may be eligible for a government payment of about $500 per fortnight ($469.70 for a single adult; $508.20 for a single adult with a dependent child; $424 per person for a couple).

The Centrelink website (http://www.centrelink.gov.au) originally stated, incorrectly, that you had to live in flood affected area to be eligible for a payment.

This would mean, for example, that an owner driver who could not carry out work because of flooded roads – or because consignors/consignees were closed as a result of the floods – would not be eligible for assistance if he or she did not live in a flood affected area.

You can access the correct eligibility criteria and other information about the subsidy at:

http://www.centrelink.gov.au/internet/internet.nsf/emergency/severe_weather_dec10_dirs.htm#telephone

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Government Contact Details for Flood Assistance

For information on Queensland's Special Disaster Flood Assistance Grants, staffing issues, workplace health and safety
      Telephone - 13 74 68 or http://www.business.qld.gov.au/risk-management/flood-business-assistance.html

In addition, information about the Federal Government's recent announcements regarding the Disaster Recovery Subsidy and the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment.

       Telephone - Centrelink - 180 22 66  or visit http://www.disasterassist.gov.au/queenslandfloods

The CPA Australia website's Disaster Recovery Toolkit for Business is also an excellent resource based on practical experience in rebuilding after the Victorian bushfires.

        http://www.cpaaustralia.com.au/cps/rde/xbcr/cpa-site/Disaster_recovery_toolkit_for_business_abridged.pdf

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2010

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Australian Consumer Law

The below information is courtesy of the Smart Business Bulletin “Australia Consumer Law” Edition – December 2010 e-newsletter.  (A joint initiative of Commonwealth, State and Territory Government Agencies)

The introduction of the Australian Consumer Law on 1st January 2011 will bring a number of important changes to the Queensland marketplace.  For the first time businesses trading across state borders will be regulated by a single set of rules, and consumers will enjoy a broader range of protections covering a greater range of transactions.

More information

1.     Download a copy of the article recently published in the QTA Transporter News Brief dated 9th December 2010
(click here for article).  A list of seminars being held in early 2011 by Qld Office of Fair Trading are also included.

2.     Visit the Australian Consumer Law website http://www.consumerlaw.gov.au/; or

3.     Visit the Office of Fair Trading website http://www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au/australian-consumer-law.htm

From 1st January 2011, the information on the Office of Fair Trading website will reflect the changes to marketplace rules that are introduced by the ACL.

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Fatal Heavy Vehicle Crash Data - December 2009 (August 2010)

Key points

  • During the 12 months ended December 2009, 144 people were killed in 119 crashes involving articulated trucks. The number of fatal crashes involving articulated trucks decreased by 7.8 per cent compared to the year ending December 2008.

  • During the 12 months ended December 2009, 81 people were killed in 77 crashes involving rigid trucks. The number of fatal crashes involving rigid trucks decreased by 13.5 per cent compared to the year ended December 2008.

  • The BITRE has done a detailed classification of 240 of the 245 deaths from heavy vehicle crashes in 2008. Heavy vehicle drivers or occupants accounted for 59 of those 230 deaths.

For a copy of the full Fact Sheet download here.

 

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Trucking Industry Releases Election Wish List (July 2010)

The Australian Trucking Association and its Member Organisations working through its established Policy Committees have developed a 2010 Election Brief for the engagement of all Political Parties and Candidates in the forthcoming Federal Election to be held on the 21st August 2010.

The trucking industry’s key priorities in the 2010 election campaign are more rest area funding and continued spending on roads.

The brief calls on all of Australia's political parties to recognise the important role trucking plays in the economy.

"The industry needs more truck rest areas to manage driver fatigue and improve safety," said Peter Garske, CEO QTA Ltd.

"That's why the ATA is calling on all political parties to make a commitment to continue funding rest areas after the existing government rest area program ends in 2011-12."

The election brief urges political parties to support national heavy vehicle regulations.

"National regulation needs to preserve existing local productivity and access arrangements and promote the adoption of those benefits in like circumstances," said Peter Garske.

"There must also be a uniform solution on fatigue management that takes into account the unique characteristics of operation in regional and remote Queensland, Western Australia and the Northern Territory."

The brief also rejects the Henry Review’s recommendation to rush into imposing mass-distance-location pricing, which could impose a heavy burden on operators.

Members are encouraged to lobby their local candidates on local issues and in doing so you are invited to draw upon the material prepared for the engagement of Political Parties.

The Election Brief is available to download here.

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Changes to MSIC Scheme effective 1 July 2010 (July 2010)

The Australian Government imposed new port security rules on 1st July, which will affect drivers and operators who apply for new Maritime Security Identity Cards or need to get their existing cards reissued.

The Government originally announced the new rules in January. They added 161 offences to the existing list of 137 offences that block people from holding Maritime Security Identity Cards, or MSICs.

The new offences on the list include riot, kidnapping and arson, which automatically disqualify a person from holding a card. Other new offences such as deceptive trade practices, carrying a concealed weapon, and aggravated assault prevent a person from holding a card if they were sentenced to a term of imprisonment.

A series of fact sheets outlining the changes to the MSIC rules, how they will affect the industry and how to appeal after a refusal is issued can be downloaded here.

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Performance Based Standards - ATA Response to RIS (May 2010)

The ATA has released its response to the National Transport Commission’s (NTC) regulatory impact statement into its review of the Performance Based Standards (PBS) Scheme.

The RIS identifies a number of issues with industry take up of the scheme and examines several options for improving participation, as well as providing certainty of access for PBS vehicles on Australian road networks.

In its response, the ATA has focused on what must change to make the PBS scheme more appealing to the industry.  Its key recommendations include:

  • national consistency in operating access conditions;

  • certainty of access for approved vehicles;

  • improved operational flexibility of PBS vehicles;

  • reduced compliance costs; and

  • a change in the approval process to allow for component certification.

ATA Chief Executive, Stuart St Clair said the move to component certification would go a long way to making the PBS scheme more appealing to trucking operators.

“Allowing operators to use different combinations of vehicles under PBS certification would see more operators look at the scheme as a viable business opportunity,” Stuart said.

“Under the current arrangements, an operator must get approval for each individual combination, as opposed to each part of that combination.

“That raises the cost of operating under PBS and limits the way operators can best use their vehicles to suit their business needs.

“Component approval would mean an operator could decide the best way to operate his business, while still meeting all the requirements of PBS certification.

“A change to component approval would also see PBS design championed by truck and trailer manufacturers, rather than operators. This would in turn reduce the cost of the program and open PBS up to more and more operators.

“The trucking industry supports the implementation of PBS; seeing it as one of the ways we can meet the increasing freight task while still improving our safety record.

“But if the program is to meet the Government’s objective to improve safety and productivity, changes must be made to ensure it does not disadvantage operators who move to PBS compliance.”

For a  copy of the ATA’s response to the PBS RIS please click on the following link:
 http://www.vision6.com.au/download/files/22094/1175630/ATA%20PBS%20RIS.pdf.

The NTC’s report can be downloaded at http://www.ntc.gov.au/DocView.aspx?DocumentId=1943

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Heavy Vehicle Registration Charges from 1st July 2010 (Comparisons 2008 - 2010) (May 2010)

Notwithstanding a well constructed submission by Industry Associations through the ATA urging the nation’s Transport Ministers (ATC) to reject the NTC proposal to increase Fuel Tax and Registration Charges from the 1st July 2010, the ATC meeting in Perth on the 30th April 2010 approved a 4.2 percent increase from 1st July 2010 or as soon as possible thereafter depending on the regulatory timetables in the separate jurisdictions.

At the time of preparing this information, QTA Ltd understands that the Queensland Government will increase registration charges in this State from the 1st July 2010.  Attached to this News Brief is a schedule of vehicle types with both the 1st July 2009 charges and the proposed 1st July 2010 charges.  QTA Ltd provides this information to assist members in preparing budgetary and contractual adjustments with customers and clients.  While we believe the numbers to be accurate until such time as they have been formally approved through the regulatory process, the figures are indicative and do not include any “additional” fees normally included by the State Government on the vehicle registration account.

The decision of ATC further provides that, subject to the Federal Government’s processing of the Disallowable Instrument through the Senate, from the 1st July 2010 trucking operators Fuel Tax Credit will decrease to 15.543 cents per litre effectively increasing fuel Excise paid to the Federal Government by 0.9 cent per litre.

Heavy Vehicle Registration Charges Comparison Schedule

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Heavy Vehicle Driver Licensing Submission (March 2010)

The ATA's Skills and Workforce Policy Group of which QTA is a participant has released a proposal to change the truck driver licensing system to increase drivers' skills and encourage more job seekers to consider truck driving as a career.

The trucking industry faces a shortage of skilled heavy vehicle drivers, due to the industry's ageing workforce, the increasing freight task and competition from other industries, such as mining.

To read the proposal, please click here.

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Truck Safety in the Clem7 (March 2010)

The CLEM7 is Australia’s safest tunnel.  With state-of-the-art safety systems and free-flow tolling, every passage through the tunnel will be faster, safer and more reliable.  Truck drivers in particular will experience the benefit of bypassing the CBD cutting their cross-city travel time significantly.

Designed with safety in mind, the CLEM7 consists of two 4.8km-long parallel tubes 10m apart with the following safety features:

  • The two tunnels are joined by cross-passages every 120m to allow access in emergencies

  • Interior lighting provides high visibility

  • In case of fire, extinguishers and hoses are located every 60 and an overhead water deluge system is in place

  • Emergency phone are located every 60m

The Tollway Control Centre situated at Bowen Hills monitors the CLEM7 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with over 250 cameras to ensure a high level of safety is maintained throughout operation.

Moreover, there are restrictions in place for vehicles with loads over 4.6m high and no carrier of dangerous good (e.g. Fuel Tankers) or other placarded vehicles are allowed through the tollway.

Warning signs are in place prior to the tollway entrance points and before the tunnel itself to alert over-height vehicles to not proceed any further.  If these are ignored physical barriers will prevent them from entering the tunnel.

This Control Centre will be alerted to any over-height vehicle entering the tollway through gantry points and will dispatch a team to aid the driver turn around and exit the tollway.

Safe driving in the CLEM7 also depends on motorists.  Here a few simple tips:

  • Always follow the variable speed and message signs

  • Ensure your radio is on and listen to any announcements

  • Avoid unnecessary lane changing or overtaking

  • Avoid wearing sunglasses

  • Switch on your headlights

  • Keep a safe distance from the car in front

All these systems and precautions provide the safest driving environment possible for motorists.

For a copy of the brochure “Tunnel Safety for Truck Drivers” which provides information on Vehicle Restrictions, Warning Signs, Penalties, What if you Breakdown in a Tunnel and What if you are stopped in Tunnel Traffic, please click here.

Please make drivers aware of the restrictions etc in relation to the Clem7 Tunnel.

 

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Flooding on Roads in Queensland (March 2010)

This Fact Sheet from the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) includes some interesting facts about the damage water does to our Roads and to help understand the reasons behind road closures and load limits.

For the latest information on road closures and flooding around the south-west and the rest of Queensland companies can log on to http://www.131940.qld.gov.au alternatively you can contact the Department on 4622 9511 or email roma.office@tmr.qld.gov.au during business hours.

To read the TMR Fact Sheet click here to download.

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The Facts About Truck Safety (February 2010)

In the year ended June 2009, 222 people were killed in road accidents involving trucks, compared to 252 in the year ended June 2004 - a decrease of 12 percent.  During the same five year period, the number of trucks on the road increased by 19 percent; the total kilometres travelled by the industry increased by 19 percent.

To read more click here to download full fact sheet.

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Delivering Australia's Freight (February 2010)

The trucking industry carries three quarters of Australia's domestic freight, including every item on the shelves of every supermarket. 

To read more click here to download full fact sheet.

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Environmental Performance (February 2010)

Modern trucks are subject to tight emissions standards and are considerably more fuel efficient than vehicles from only 30 years ago.  The trucking industry could achieve even greater gains in fuel efficiency and reduce its greenhouse gas emissions through the use of longer, safer trucks on some routes.

To read more and to download a copy of the full fact sheet please visit the Environment page of this website

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Careers & Training (February 2010)

The trucking industry faces a shortage of skilled heavy vehicle drivers, due to the industry's ageing workforce, the increasing freight task and competition from other industries, such as mining.  The QTA Ltd and ATA member organisations are working to encourage more people to enter the industry in driving, operational and management roles.

To read more and to download a copy of the full fact sheet please visit the T&L Careers page of this website

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Fatal Heavy Vehicle Crashes

According to the latest heavy vehicle crash statistics released by the Bureau of Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Economics (BITRE) 90 people were killed in 86 crashes involving rigid trucks in the year ended March 2009.

The number of fatal crashes involving rigid trucks increased by 2.4 per cent compared to the year ended March 2008, when there were 84 crashes.

Over the three years to March 2009, the number of fatal rigid truck crashes increased by an average of 8 per cent a year.

The figures show the number of fatal crashes involving articulated trucks has continued to fall.

In the 12 months ended March 2009, 138 people were killed in 124 crashes involving articulated trucks. The number of fatal crashes involving these trucks decreased by 16.2 per cent compared to the year ended March 2008, when 183 people were killed in 148 crashes.

For a copy of the Fact Sheet, please click here

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Anxiety & Depression Awareness

Please click on log below for a copy of the Fact Sheet by beyondblue (Sept 09)

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National Greenhouse & Energy Reporting: Operational Control Scorecard (September 2009)

Please visit the Environment page of this website for further information

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Greenhouse Reporting Guide for Trucking Companies (September 2009)

Please visit the Environment page of this website for further information

 

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New Fatigue Regulations & Driver Work Hours

Commenced 29th September 2008

For a copy of the Fatigue Regulations & Driving Hour Fact Sheets, please click on the following link:

EXEMPTION NOTICES (12 + 2 hrs)

For a (pdf) copy of the Gazetted government Exemption Notices relating to the new Fatigue Laws, please click on the relevant State below.

Where to find further information and advice on the New Fatigue Regulations & Driver Work Hours

National Transport Commission: http://www.ntc.gov.au/ViewPage.aspx?page=A02314401400090020

Queensland Transport: http://www.transport.qld.gov.au or contact QT Heavy Vehicle Fatigue Management Project Team on 07 3253 4037 or email qthvproject@transport.qld.gov.au.

 

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Intelligent Access Program

For a copy of the Queensland Transport Intelligent Access Program Fact Sheet please click on the following link: pdf\QT IAP fact sheet - may08.pdf

 

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Planning for an Influenza Pandemic

The Queensland Government encourages all businesses to undertake planning for a human influenza pandemic.  While nobody can predict when an influenza pandemic might occur, planning ahead could minimise the impact of a pandemic on your business, help protect your staff, and contribute to the local and national recovery.  A pandemic planning kit has been developed that encourages businesses to understand the risk, plan to maintain essential services, and protect their staff.

All businesses are encouraged to make pandemic planning part of their ongoing business continuity planning.

 

Please click here for copy of article published in the Transporter News Brief in relation to the above.

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