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The trucking industry’s 2011 elections are underway, with nominations and voter registrations now open.
In the election, truck owner drivers and the operators of small trucking fleets will elect two representatives to the General Council of the Australian Trucking Association, the peak body representing the industry.
The Chairman of the ATA, David Simon, said the 2011 election was a critical opportunity for owner drivers and small fleet operators to have their say about the industry’s future.
“The ATA Council sets the ATA’s strategic policy direction. It deals with the critical issues that will determine the industry’s long term future, including safety, the road transport laws and operator viability,” Mr Simon said.
“I urge all owner drivers and small fleet operators to register to vote. I also urge owner drivers and small fleet operators who want to build the industry’s future to consider nominating for a position.
“Everyone in the trucking industry has a view about what needs to be done, but talking on the radio or at truck stops won’t change a thing. The only way to get results is to be actively involved in the ATA or any one of our member organisations – including through this election,” he said.
To register to vote, an operator must own, be purchasing or leasing 1-5 trucks over 4.5 tonnes and be on the Commonwealth Electoral Roll.
To become a candidate for the single truck owner driver position, an operator must own, be purchasing or leasing one truck over 4.5 tonnes and drive it. For the small fleet position, an operator must own, be purchasing or leasing 2-5 trucks over 4.5 tonnes. Candidates must be members of an ATA member organisation.
Nominations and voter registrations close on 7 February 2011. If there are more candidates than vacancies, there will be an election by postal ballot.