THE Australian Logistics Council has welcomed the Productivity Commission’s Draft Report on National Transport Regulatory Reform released this week, showing the need for better harmonisation of national transport regulation.
“ALC is pleased that the Draft Report has picked up many of the opportunities identified in our submission to the Productivity Commission to enhance productivity and safety through further regulatory reform,” said chief executive Kirk Coningham.
“The Productivity Commission has correctly noted that although reforms to date have undoubtedly yielded some productivity benefits, there is still unfinished business on the table. Unless we now deal with these issues, we risk stagnating productivity in the transport sector and being left behind by Australia’s international competitors.”
Mr Coningham said the ALC especially welcomed recommendations for further reform of the Heavy Vehicle National Law.
“ALC also supports the Productivity Commission’s recommendation that jurisdictions transfer regulatory functions in relation to the HVNL to the NHVR by 1 January 2022,” he said.
“This will help to address continuing frustration within the industry at inconsistent enforcement of the law across state borders.”
Mr Coningham said they also welcomed the Productivity Commission’s call for industry participants to be assisted to move away from ‘tick the box’ safety compliance.
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator also welcomed the Productivity Commission report.
NHVR chair Duncan Gay said the draft report showed the benefits that had already been achieved, while charting a path for improvement.
“We welcome the draft report and will continue to work with the Productivity Commission as they finalise their inquiry over the coming months,” Mr Gay said.
“The draft report reinforces the key safety and productivity benefits that have already been enabled through the work of industry and the NHVR. “Like the NHVR, the Productivity Commission, identifies that these benefits will be strengthened through improvements to the Heavy Vehicle National Law and increased cooperation between state and local governments.”
