TRUCKING INDUSTRY URGES URGENT FUEL RELIEF

Australia’s road transport sector is calling on the Federal Government to urgently roll out promised financial support, as fuel costs continue to bite.

The National Road Transport Association says a recently announced one billion dollar Economic Resilience Program has yet to be implemented, leaving operators under mounting pressure.

Chief executive Warren Clark says survey data shows more than 70 per cent of trucking businesses believe they will not survive beyond six months under current conditions.

Small operators are considered most at risk, with many already reporting significant reductions in work and some forced to stand down staff.

Mr Clark warns delays in delivering the program could see trucks taken off the road, disrupting supply chains across the country.

The association is urging the Government to release funding guidelines and open applications immediately, warning the sector is at a critical point.