The NSW Government has released its report on Delivering freight policy reform in New South Wales. This is the final report of the Freight Policy Advisory Panel set up in 2024 by the NSW Minister of Transport to review the state’s freight policy.
The report is a comprehensive report covering:
> Imports and exports;
> Interstate transit and intrastate freight; and
> Shipping, rail, road and intermodal issues.
The report recognises population growth, decarbonisation and technological change as key issues that need to be addressed and makes recommendations on:
> Information and data;
> Strategic planning;
> Workforce skills and shortages;
> Decarbonisation;
> Network reforms; and
> Governance.
From HVIA’s perspective there are some important developments and positions in the report, including:
> Recognition that newer, high-productivity freight vehicles play a role in achieving safety, environmental and productivity objectives;
> Data collected through telematics systems plays an important role in better managing the freight system;
> Access arrangements need to support high-productivity vehicles by providing end-to-end access and addressing cross border issues, with prioritising upgrades to the network to support performance based standards (PBS) combinations a priority; and
> Recognition of workforce shortages in the industry.
However, there are a number of elements in the report which HVIA does not support, or believes need further evidence before they should be put considered for implementation. These include:
> Approaches to emissions reduction. There is a focus on a shift from road to rail, as well as considering charging vehicles based on their carbon emissions; and
> Calling for mandating telematics in all heavy vehicles.
HVIA is still determining our position on the above proposed actions and would welcome feedback from interested members. Reach out to Chief Advocacy Officer Adele Lausberg if you have views on any of the above, or other elements of the report.
Access the report here.