The Queensland Opposition is calling on the Government to introduce dedicated heavy vehicle driver examiners as a way of alleviating
The Queensland Opposition is calling on the Government to introduce dedicated heavy vehicle driver examiners as a way of alleviating skills shortages in the trucking industry.
Opposition spokesman on transport Tim Nicholls says too many of Queensland Transport’s examiners are being tied up in motorcycle and vehicle tests, meaning many would-be truck drivers have to wait up to two months for to be certified.
Unless moves are made to introduce specific heavy vehicle examiners, Nicholls says there will be an increase in driver shortages.
“This is one of the most obvious solutions to help resolve the current heavy vehicle driver shortage,” he says.
“Some driving schools are being forced to turn people away because there are not enough tests available.”
Nicholls has accused the Bligh Government of ignoring the plight of the trucking industry, which is struggling to attract as well as retain drivers amid a growing freight task.
“The Government should be encouraging potential drivers into the industry. Instead they make it difficult for drivers from the word go,” he says.
ATN contacted Minister for Transport John Mickel. However, his office is yet to respond.