ENSURING truckies and transport operators are protected from fuel price rises is the aim of changes to the Fair Work Act announced by the federal government.
The government says it will amend the Act to allow truckies and road transport businesses to make an emergency application for a contract chain order to deal with the current spike in fuel prices.
Under the Fair Work Act, the Fair Work Commission can require transport clients, including retailers, mining companies and manufacturers, to offer fair contract terms, ensuring truckies and transport operators are paid sufficient to cover the cost of fuel.
Employment minister Amanda Rishworth said it was important costs were shared fairly through the supply chain.
“We are making sure the independent Fair Work Commission can act quickly to deal with these issues,” Ms Rishworth said.
“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.”
Infrastructure and transport minister Catherine King said fuel price spikes were affecting everyone, but no one more than heavy vehicle drivers.
“That’s why we’re making it easier for them to renegotiate how costs are shared across the supply chain,” Ms King said.
“It’ll mean truckies can get back to moving the items we need, without worrying about their business stalling due to rising costs.”
VTA CEO Peter Anderson said the government’s response was a timely and necessary measure that recognised the essential nature of freight operators and the acute pressures they face.
“The VTA strongly supports the government’s commitment to ensuring fuel cost shocks are shared fairly along the supply chain. For years, we have emphasised that fuel is one of the most significant and unpredictable operating expenses in road transport," Mr Anderson said.
“This announcement gives freight and logistics businesses the ability to seek urgent relief when global events cause unsustainable price surges. It reinforces a principle we have long advocated — that transport contracts must enable operators to recover genuine cost movements in real time.”
Mr Anderson said the reforms also acknowledged the critical role of transport workers.
“Every product Australians rely on moves at some point on heavy vehicles. Without mechanisms to pass rising fuel and operational costs through the supply chain, our capacity to keep freight moving is compromised,” he said.
“The government’s decision ensures fairness, transparency and sustainability — not just for transport operators, but for the customers and communities that depend on them.”