Road Freight NSW––the peak industry organisation representing trucking operators in NSW––will become an independent organisation from 1 January 2018 to better serve its NSW membership base.

The organisation––currently a subsidiary of the Australian Trucking Association (ATA)–– delivers a range of services and benefits to members, including advice on workplace relations, legal counsel and engagement, discounted off the pump and bulk fuel through BP, and representation on industry issues, interests and concerns to state and federal governments.

It began as ATA NSW in 2007 and is recognised as a respected advocate for trucking operators, and a conduit to government, regulators and enforcement agencies.

Road Freight NSW took on its current name in 2015. It will now work independently to campaign on policies affecting the NSW transport sector, primarily heavy vehicle safety, the regulatory regimes stifling business growth and the unwarranted surcharges, like stevedores’ port taxes, being imposed on carriers.

Road Freight NSW Chairman Jon Luff says that while the organisation is committed to policy development nationally, there is a need for an independent body in NSW to allow strong advocacy at a state level.

“We will be the local voice for local truck carriers, providing support and advocacy on behalf of our members, who now include some of the country’s largest transport companies,” he says.

“We have enjoyed our collaboration with the ATA and its Board, Directors and General Council. It’s an exciting time for Road Freight NSW and our membership. It will prove to be a game changer for the sector.”

ATA Chair, Geoff Crouch, says the name, Road Freight NSW, reflects the organisation’s independent and authoritative viewpoint.

“The move underscores the strength of Road Freight NSW and the vital advocacy role it plays across the state,” he says. “It will enable the ATA to better support member based organisations throughout Australia, and to represent members across all tiers of government.

“We operate in a complex regulatory environment and the issues vary across states. Having a member owned and operated organisation to represent local members is a big achievement, and critical so all voices can be heard.

“Strong advocacy is critical to our members, right across Australia,” he says.

“Road Freight NSW will continue to provide the representation, tools and resources needed for its members right across the state.”

RFNSW will remain a member of the ATA.

Media contacts:      ATA                Bill McKinley            02 6253 6900 | 0488 292 823

                              RFNSW          Simon O’Hara          0400 188 815