The transport reform we have fought relentlessly to achieve has now passed Parliament and will become law to set safer and fairer standards for all transport workers.
Whether you are an owner driver, employee driver, transport gig worker, bus driver, waste worker, distribution centre worker or any other transport worker, it would not have been possible without your efforts.
In February 2024, the Federal Parliament passed the Closing the Loopholes Bill, which introduced significant transport reforms aimed at addressing systemic issues in the industry.
Here is a summary of the key changes, the TWU's role, and how the Bill will hold those at the top of supply chains accountable:
Improved Protections: The bill enhances protections for transport workers that previously allowed for exploitation practices across the industry including enforceable minimum orders across the transport industry.
A voice for all transport workers: A major focus of the reform is to ensure that all transport workers, including owner drivers and those in gig economy roles, receive fair wages and have safe working conditions.
Strengthened Regulatory Framework: The bill introduces more regulations for the transport industry, ensuring safety compliance with new standards. This includes enforcement of new rules.
Support for Small and Independent Operators: The reform includes provisions to support small and independent transport operators, helping them to compete fairly with larger companies.
Ending Gig Exploitation: The bill specifically addresses the gig economy, where many transport workers are classified as independent contractors, often without the protections afforded to traditional employees. This has led to widespread issues of deaths, low pay, lack of benefits and unsafe working conditions. Amazon has been a notable player in integrating the gig model, particularly through services like Amazon Flex.
The Role of the TWU Members
Campaigning Efforts: The TWU campaigned for over 20 years for the lifesaving reform. The union organised a series of convoys across the country and protests to highlight the challenges faced by transport workers including deaths due to truck related crashes, unsafe working conditions and unfair contracts. We lobbied policymakers, engaged in public awareness campaigns and mobilised workers to demand changes lifesaving reforms.
Holding Supply Chains Accountable:
Accountability Mechanisms: The Closing the Loopholes Bill includes specific measures to hold those at the top of supply chains like retail giants Aldi accountable for the conditions experienced by transport workers across their supply chains.
Key Provisions: Supply Chain Accountability: Companies at the top of the supply chain can be held liable for breaches across supply chains. This ensures that they cannot evade responsibility by squeezing suppliers across supply chains. Compliance Requirements: Companies are required to ensure that all levels of their supply chain adhere to orders.
Impact: By holding those at the top of the supply chain accountable, the bill aims to ensure fair treatment and safe conditions for all transport workers.
