QTA Calls for Support Amidst Ongoing Flood Crisis in Queensland
The Queensland Trucking Association (QTA) is sounding the alarm regarding the absence of financial relief and support for the unprecedented challenges facing road freight transport companies delivering into North and Far North Queensland due to the current severe flood event.
The QTA is working 24/7 communicating with our members on alternate and efficient routes, timely updates and responding to their concerns over the last 10 days.
CEO Gary Mahon, says, “With daily losses exceeding $100,000/fleet and hundreds of trucks driving 1000km detours, road freight transport businesses and their truck drivers are under immense pressure to deliver goods while battling adverse weather conditions, logistical barriers and bureaucracy.”
“The current situation we now find ourselves in is unprecedented in Queensland with no or very limited, intermittent access into the north of the State.”
Every effort has been made by the QTA to prepare the industry for this annual occurring natural disaster.
Prior to Christmas, in preparation for the wet season, QTA advocated for permits to be issued for alternate routes so multi-combinations would have pre-approved alternate access in the event of major freight route closures. Although funding has been now committed for both the Inland Freight Route, and more recently the Bruce Highway our advocacy continued for some key road sections to be sealed and some important flood ways and bridge work to be undertaken.
“The current flood situation has not only caused significant delays in the transportation of essential supplies but has also placed substantial stress on our industry and the communities that rely on our services.”
"We have reports of business paying for private helicopters to fly food and supplies into stranded drivers and lift drivers out of flooded areas. This is another additional expense for road freight transport businesses."
We fully acknowledge the significant support provided by the Australian Defence Force and all other emergency response agencies in natural disasters. However, the role the road freight transport sector performs to maintain the supply of goods to communities is a critical role and deeply respected by the QTA.
“The current flood situation has not only caused significant delays in the transportation of essential supplies but has also placed substantial financial and mental stress on our industry and for the communities that rely on our services.”
“Without timely interventions and support, the economic ramifications could escalate, affecting both road freight transport businesses, their customers and the communities they service.”
“While our members are dedicated to meeting their contractual obligations, they and are under increasing pressure from their freight clients to deliver regardless. The industry cannot override safety, they must abide by road closure directives. Safety must come first.”
We urge the State and Federal governments to recognise the vital role of the road freight industry and take immediate actions to provide the necessary concessions to offset the enormous losses being incurred by transport businesses. By doing so, they can help support an industry that underpins the economy by providing an essential service during natural disasters. protect not only the freight companies but also the communities that depend on them for access to essential supplies.
We thank the media for continuing to highlight the important role of the road freight industry.
_ENDS
Media Contact:
Gary Mahon | gary@qta.com.au | 0418 736 802
