June/July 10

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Special Features
New Minimum Wage

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National Issues Pallet Hire Carbon Reporting VTA State Conference 2010

Industrial Relations
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1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Industry Pulse
General Freight Committee Container Group Long Distance & Regional Freight Member News

Representing our members

Serving the freight and logistics industry for more than 100 years.

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June/July 10

Contents
Special Features News Update National Issues Industry Pulse On the Agenda Environment VTA State Conference Industrial Relations Member News On the Road Safety Issues Waste Management Careers & Employment Alliance Partners Supplier Partners 03 04 06 08 09 10 12 13 14 16 18 19 20 22

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Note from the Chief Executive

Welcome to edition 45 of the Priority Report we are now into the second half of 2010 and the VTA continues to work hard for our members and the industry. In May we held the State Conference and it was great to see a good turn out for this quality conference. We have had good feedback and look forward to continuing to provide practical and informative advice at our conferences. Taking pride of place on our VTA calendar of events is the upcoming 21st Annual Freight Industry Awards. I really encourage all members to think about putting a nomination in for an award, this is a great opportunity to support the industry and gain recognition for some of your achievements. On the policy and industry representational front, the VTA has been strongly engaged in working to a solution for Empty Container Management in the Port of Melbourne. Two working groups comprising representatives from shipping lines, park operators, transport companies, CBFCA and the PoMC have been established and are working on the main concerns. There is still a long way ahead as we try to work to a solution that benefits our members and the container transport chain more broadly. The VTA has also been working for members on the proposed Freight Infrastructure Charge and is putting the pressure on Government to ensure they dont unfairly charge only one part of the supply chain. I would also like to welcome our newest team member at the VTA, Kerri Langes. Kerri Langes, formerly of TDT Victoria, joins us as a Business Development Manager and will be responsible for a variety of new projects and developing our membership base. I encourage you to keep reading as we endeavour to keep you in the picture with the latest industry news.

Victorian Transport Association Wirraway Drive Fishermans Bend 3207 PO Box 5 South Melbourne 3205 Philip Lovel AM Chief Executive Officer philip@vta.com.au

Neil Chambers Deputy CEO neil@vta.com.au

Brian Hesketh Operations Director brian@vta.com.au

Lucille Degenhardt Marketing & Communications Manager lucille@vta.com.au

Victorian Transport Association - Priority Report

For more information on any articles please contact the VTA on 03 9646 8590. If you would like to contribute material for publication please contact lucille@vta.com.au Produced by Lucille Degenhardt The VTA would appreciate acknowledgement for any article or photo reproduced from this newsletter. Manufactured with 30% recovered fibre sourced from pulp suppliers who use sustainable forestry techniques. Priority Report is sponsored by Optus and TWUSUPER.

Kerri Langes Business Development Manager kerri@vta.com.au Andrew Tytherleigh Executive Offficer VWMA andrew@vta.com.au 2
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News Update
AFI Award Night & Nominations
Nominations are now open for the 21st Annual Freight Industry Awards. The VTA is pleased to announce Continental Tyres as a new Sponsor of the Awards and Gala Evening to be held on Saturday 11th September 2010.
Nominations are now open for the 21st Annual Australian Freight Industry Awards. These unique awards are designed to reward excellence and to raise the standards and public perception of the Australian Freight and Logistics Industry. The 21st Annual Australian Freight Industry Awards are being held on Saturday 11th September 2010. The Awards night will be held at the Melbourne Convention Centre Plenary and will once again be a spectacular event with great food, great music and a celebration of our Industry. VTA CEO, Philip Lovel strongly encourages companies to nominate for the Awards, For over twenty years companies & individuals who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to make their work more innovative, efficient and safe have been publicly recognised and honoured at the Australian Freight Industry Awards. Entering the Awards is a powerful demonstration that shows your organisation values employees and their contributions. The Australian Freight Industry Awards in 2010 will include the following 6 categories: 1. Australian Best Practice Safety Award 2. Australian Freight Innovation/ Technology Award 3. Australian Freight and Logistics Award 4. Australian Freight Environmental Award 5. Australian Freight Industry Promotion & Careers Award 6. Australian Freight and Logistics Personality of the Year Award nominations will close on Monday 23rd August. The Awards night itself promises to be a great night of entertainment. Star of stage and screen, Ian Stenlake, is the special guest singer and celebrity compere for the evening. Ian Stenlake is well known for his roles in Stingers, Sea Patrol, Guys & Dolls and Sleeping Beauty. Following the award winners the music of Johnny Cash and June Carter-Cash will live on with Walk the Line tribute. Then the unstoppable Leo Sayer will hit the stage with an amazing live show featuring his truly unique songs such as You make me feel like dancing and When I need you. Nomination forms and Award Night invitations are available from the VTA, visit the website at www.vta.com.au or contact reception on 03 9646 8590

www.vta.com.au

Feature National Issues

Heavy Vehicle Registration Fees & Fuel Excise

Neil Chambers, Deputy CEO, VTA

Transport, Anthony Albanese, announced the Federal Governments intention to change the Maritime Security Identification Card (MSIC) scheme to: More than double the number of criminal offences that may preclude an individual from obtaining the necessary security clearance to receive at MSIC, from 137 offences to 298 offences. These include murder, use of prohibited explosives, making a bomb hoax, kidnapping and bribing a government official.

by Governments over a two-year period, they would have expected to receive very clear information from authorities as to why In the last edition of Priority Report (Edition the increases had occurred. Why are heavy vehicle operators treated differently? Its a 44), we provided extensive coverage on question that Transport Ministers and Road the decision of Commonwealth, State & Authorities should ponder carefully. Territory Governments to apply an annual adjustment increase to heavy vehicle The other thing that these increases registration fees of 4.2% in 2010/11. In addition, the Commonwealth has increased point to, as well as the calculation and consultation processes which sit behind the Road User Charge component of fuel excise from 21.7 cents per litre (cpl) to 22.6 them, is that the current Pay-As-You-Go (PAYGO) economic model used to arrive cpl, thereby reducing the eligible on-road at the fee increases is not sustainable into fuel tax credit rate from 16.443 cpl to the future. 15.543. As mentioned previously, the combined effect of annual adjustment increases and the three-year phased introduction of readjusted registration fees for different classes of vehicles adopted by Governments in 2008, are very significant cost increases for transport operators, particularly those operating multi-combination vehicles such as B-doubles and road trains. For instance, the cost of registering a 9-axle B-double in 2010/11 will rise by 25.60%, from $12,214 to $15,340 (excluding TAC fees). Indeed, the cost of registering that same vehicle combination has risen over 56% in the two-year period from 2008 to 2010. The VTA has fielded numerous queries from its members about the background and justification for these steep cost increases imposed by Governments. One of the reasons for these queries is that very poor information is provided by Governments when the new fees are finally advertised to transport operators in each State/Territory. The PAYGO model has little regard for vehicle productivity, and there has always been a disconnect between the way in which heavy vehicles are charged for their allocated share of funding for road building and road maintenance, versus the actual allocation of road funding which helps to improve heavy vehicle access and movement on the road network. As a result, everyone should become engaged in the current national process to investigate and debate future ways to charge heavy vehicles for their share of road network costs. Maritime Security Identification Card (MSIC) Regulatory Changes A Maritime Security Identification Card (MSIC) is required by anybody who requires unaccompanied access to a maritime security zone. This includes truck drivers picking up & delivering cargo to wharfs and stevedoring terminals in ports.

If any other sector of the economy had received a 56% increase in charges imposed In January 2010, the Federal Minister for
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Introduce a reduced MSIC validity period of four years with a two-year background check. Require MSIC holders to report to their Issuing Body if they are convicted of a Maritime Security Related Offence;

 Adding a penalty to the existing requirement for Issuing Bodies to cancel an MSIC under certain circumstances. Since then, the VTA, in collaboration with counterpart State transport associations and the Australian Trucking Association (ATA), has been in consultation with the Office of Transport Security (OTS) regarding implementation of the schemes changes. On 1 July 2010, the new MSIC eligibility criteria offence categories took effect, and from 1 December 2010, changes to card validity, suspension provisions, further background checking requirements and new penalties will take effect. Current MSIC holders will not be required to resubmit applications or take any action they will be screened against the new criteria when they are next required to renew their card. Further information can be obtained from http://www.infrastructure.gov.au/transport/ security/maritime/index.aspx, or by contacting the Identity Security Section of the Office of Transport Security (OTS) via email at: idsecurity@infrastructure.gov.au

legislative obligations through electronic recordkeeping.

Commercial availability At least the standard of Paper-based The National Transport Commission (NTC) Work Diaries is responsible for considering the legislative Performance-based specifications, implications of an alternative compliance rather than the rigid application of one framework for EWDs, while Austroads, the technology; association of road authorities in Australia Accommodate a multi-application and NZ, is leading a project to develop environment the technical specifications for EWDs. The need for the system to accomTransport Certification Australia (TCA) is modate existing fatigue management assisting the NTC and Austroads in these options, and be flexible enough to actasks. commodate any future options. Currently, heavy vehicle driver fatigue laws allow for the use of an electronic work diary as an alternative to the written, paper-based work diary. However, the current regulations do not go as far as to specify the level of performance that such electronic devices need to meet, or how appropriate authorities would assess applications for the use of EWDs. Other aspects of fatigue management regulations need clarity in relation to the use of EWDs, such as how the records would be made readily accessible to an enforcement officer, and how the requirement would be achieved for drivers to carry their electronic work/rest records between vehicles? VTA members have been kept abreast of these developments through excellent presentations made to date on progress at the 2010 VTA State Conference, as well as to the VTA General Freight Committee and the VTA Long Distance & Regional Freight Group. VTA members have been buoyed by the pragmatic philosophies being applied by the NTC and TCA in developing an appropriate EWD specification. These include:
www.vta.com.au

It is likely that the NTC and Austroads will be consulting industry on this national work later in 2010, prior to physical trials of the technologies. The NSW Government has already announced that it will lead on EWD trials later in 2010, and the VTA has offered to cooperate fully in such trials. It is not envisaged that EWDs will replace paper-based work diaries on a mandatory basis. Rather, EWDs will be available for use on a voluntary basis to comply fully with fatigue management legislation. At the end of the day, it will be a win-win for the regulators and for industry if access to EWDs improves work and rest hours compliance by heavy vehicle drivers, improves recordkeeping compliance and allows operators to implement improved workforce management systems linked ideally to other commercial benefits.

Electronic Work Diaries

National discussions continue on the development of minimum standards for Electronic Work Diaries (EWDs) and associated policy and legislative amendments. These initiatives are supported by transport operators who can see added efficiencies, better driver management, and increased compliance outcomes from being able to meet heavy vehicle driver fatigue management

Industry Pulse
General Freight & Container Groups
VTA General Freight Meeting June

for Small Business in May to discuss the VTAs submission on pallet management. A hot topic on the Agenda was the Freight Infrastructure Charge. The Victorian Government has reiterated its intention from July 2011 to levy a freight Infrastructure Charge on all trucks entering the international container terminals at West and East Swanson Docks in the Port of Melbourne. A briefing for VTA members by the Department of Transport and the Port of Melbourne Corporation was hosted at the VTA offices on Tuesday 4th May. There was significant opposition to the charge from VTA members present at the meeting. At its meeting on 18th May, the VTA Executive Council adopted a resolution to establish a Contingency Fund to assist in fighting the proposed charge. It was resolved to levy each VTA member engaged in international container transport operations through the Port of Melbourne to contribute to the Fund. The Contingency Fund will be used to seek legal and other forms of advice in an attempt to build a case for the Government to alter its course in relation to the structure and intent of the Charge.
Container Group Meeting May

The VTA General Freight Committee met on Tuesday 8th June. The final draft of the Strategic Work Program for 2010/11 was reviewed and finalised. At its April 2010 meeting, the General Freight Committee received a briefing from the National Transport Commission (NTC) on its draft Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS) recommending ways to improve the PBS regime. The VTA Secretariat then worked with the Australian Trucking Association (ATA) to submit comments to the NTC. The Group noted the progress of this and agreed to ensure a small group of VTA members lobby for outcomes consistent with the NTCs draft RIS to help improve road access decisions for PBS compliant vehicles. The committee discussed the next steps in HPFV (Higher Productivity Freight Vehicle) trials in Victoria. While some progress is being made in getting these trials underway, the question remains as to whether more can be done to encourage greater access for HPFVs. John Stuart from Pallet Loss Prevention updated the Committee on the ongoing issues regarding Pallets. In April, the VTA and representatives of the pallet sector held a meeting with the Victorian Small Business Commissioner (SBC) to discuss business conduct issues associated with the pallet management system in Australia. Also, the VTA has responded to a Federal Senate Inquiry into Unconscionable Conduct to raise current pallet management practices. Subsequently, Philip Lovel and John Stuart met with Advisers to the Federal Minister
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Proposed Carrier Matrix 2010-11 VBS cost structure at WST from 1st July 2010. Richard mentioned that the changes were part of significant planned expenditure by DPW to upgrade technology systems in their business, including their Terminal Operating System. Several members expressed concern regarding the matrix proposal. There are several carriers who choose to be B class carriers and pay their subscriptions accordingly. However, under the new system, they may not have that choice, and, therefore, may not rate for B class status when assessed against the performance parameters contained in the matrix. The VTA offered to work closely with DP World to organise and host training and awareness building efforts. These sessions attracted over 200 attendees, reinforcing the decision to offer such training. After discussions, the Group agreed that a small working group of members should establish dialogue with DP World on the proposed terms and conditions. Neil Chambers updated the Group on Empty Container Management issues and actions taken since the last meeting. Members were directed to the VTA website home page where a link has been provided to access documents on the progress of the discussions. The Group also discussed the Freight Infrastructure Charge and it was agreed that there was considerable work to be done to try to convince the Government that the charge, in its current form, is flawed public policy.

The Container Group met on Tuesday 11th May, and was attended by over 30 members. Richard Johnstone, Director, Business Systems Solutions, DP World presented to the Group on: The WST DP World 1-Stop Vehicle Booking System (VBS) roll out plan;

Long Distance & Regional Freight

Long Distance and Regional Freight Group Meeting June

The Long Distance and Regional Freight Group met on Thursday 17th June. The first agenda item was Truck Lane Restrictions. Other matters noted included: Industrial Relations The VicRoads Director Vehicle National Heavy Vehicle Regulator Management and Safety, Don Hogben, Heavy Vehicle Pricing discussed the introduction of Truck Lane Victorian Issues Restrictions on designated, multi-lane NSW Issues freeways for trucks greater than 4.5 tonnes GVM. The Long Distance and Regional Freight Group is open to any VTA member The VTA has been invited by VicRoads to attend. Meetings cover a variety of to be represented on an Implementation important issues, the next meeting is Monitoring Group, which will help to advise scheduled for Thursday 26th August 2010. on communications and implementation issues, and to help to evaluate the lane restriction arrangements. NSW Road Freight Advisory Council Other items discussed at the meeting included: TheLoading/UnloadingExclusion Zone Project Simon Skazlic updated the Group on the progress of this project which aims to develop best practice guidance material for exclusion zones FatigueManagementDiscussion of the Review of Legislation and what VTA members would like to achieve to assist in greater national harmonisation and sensible rules overall ElectronicWorkDiaries NSW has announced plans to conduct an operational pilot of Electronic Work Diaries and electronic speed monitoring to commence in 2011. The Group discussed options for VTA member companies to become involved in the pilot. ChainofResponsibilityObligations There is still concern that many in the supply chain still possess a limited understanding of Chain of Responsibility obligations and responsibilities. The Group

discussed what the VTA should be doing to address these concerns in collaboration with members, others in the chain, and with governments.

FiveStareAccreditationto consider the conditions under which a Five Star Trucking safety concept may be developed and become operational for transport and related operations so it can contribute to the creation of a safer industry The Council is complemented by the Transport Operations Liaison Group, which includes key industry organisations. The Group last met in June to provide a status report on urban and rural rest area strategies.
Industry Interest Sought on Greater Capacity at Port

The Brumby Labor Government is calling for expressions of interest from industry on new ways to expand container capacity at the Port of Melbourne. Minister for Roads and Ports, Tim Pallas said With total container trade through the Port of Melbourne forecast to increase almost four fold to around eight million containers by 2035, we need to ensure the port is capable of managing this important task The Port has tested interest with stevedores, shipping lines and port stakeholders and prepared a business case for the redevelopment of Webb Dock for the Governments consideration. The Port of Melbourne has been asked to explore and provide advice on all options for the provision of additional container capacity at the port. They will engage in further market testing with port operators and industry to determine their perspective on any other options that could be considered to manage Melbournes container trade demand. No information was supplied on how the Port of Melbourne intends to engage the industry.
www.vta.com.au

The objective of the NSW Road Freight Advisory Council (RFAC) is to assist in identifying and delivering freight solutions that will meet the needs of the NSW and Australian community and economy. Membership is by personal invitation from the NSW Minister for Roads. VTA CEO, Philip Lovel is a member. The Council has recently been working on the following items: LastMileAccessimprovingthe efficiency of the road network through the appropriate expansion of safe and sustainable access to the last mile by Higher Productivity Freight Vehicles UrbanFreightdevelopinga strategy to reduce restrictions on heavy vehicle access which affects urban freight deliveries - with the objective of improving network utilisation and supply chain efficiency while addressing the amenity, environmental and safety concerns of the community

On the Agenda

Pallet Hire Mystery

Bunnings was recently ordered to pay Chep hire fees of $11 million even though it was not a customer of Chep

Chep v Bunnings [2010] NSWSC 301 In May 2010, Justice McDougall in the Supreme Court of New South Wales ordered Bunnings to pay $11 million in damages to Chep for conversion and detinue of 64,690 pallets it had unlawfully detained over a five year period. Facts Between 16 May 2002 to 31 October 2007 (relevant period), Bunnings received some deliveries on Chep pallets. When these deliveries were made, Bunnings either exchanged other Chep pallets with customers or gave an IOU for the number of Chep pallets received. Bunnings was not a Chep customer during the relevant period.

Non-Commercial Chep pallets;

Whether Chep gave its customers and

Bunnings an implied license in respect of pallets; and Whether Chep was prevented (estopped) from opposing any wrong that was committed by Bunnings as it agreed to Bunnings holding and using Chep pallets.

McDougall found on the evidence that there was no such licence as Bunnings had no Chep pallets in its possession that were subject to Bunnings hire agreement. The Court dismissed the defence of estoppel by Bunnings as there was a lack of evidence that Bunnings was authorised by Chep to use Non-Commercial Chep pallets for Bunnings business. The Court concluded Chep was entitled to damages for detinue and conversion for the relevant period plus interest and that the appropriate measure of damages was foregone hire charges. Hire charges accumulated over the relevant five year period totalled some $11 million dollars i.e. the hire charges Chep did not receive from the person in possession of the pallets. Lessons to be learnt This is despite the fact that during that entire time, a customer of Chep (whomever that may be) was paying hire charges for precisely the same pallets. This case raises serious issues about double dipping and the conscionability or otherwise of such hire arrangements it also highlights that a pallet hirer may obtain a Court order for the return of pallets that are in the possession of companies who are not party to a hire agreement or terms of trade agreement and make a claim for foregone revenue. This is a timely reminder for transport and logistics operators to: Conduct weekly or monthly audits of their pallets. Train all employees that handle pallets about the financial implications of lost pallets. Always obtain an IOU from companies delivering pallets or exchange pallets and redeem them in a timely manner.

The decision The Court was satisfied that Chep had the right to immediate possession of Chep pallets by reason of the first sentence of clause 4(d) of Cheps standard terms of hire equipment over the period from 2002 to 2007 which states: Chep has the right to immediate Chep conducted an informal count of Chep possession of all Chep equipment, pallet movements in and out of Bunning stores whether on hire or not, and may take with major customers of Bunnings that held possession of any equipment immediately IOUs. It was discovered that Bunnings held and without notice to any person. 82,216 Chep pallets. Chep made repeated [emphasis added] demands for the pallets to be returned. The Court was satisfied that Bunnings Bunnings refused to return the pallets claiming had 64,690 Chep pallets in its possession they were on hire to customers of Chep. In that were Non-Commercial Chep pallets, August 2007, the Supreme Court of New that is pallets over and above those that South Wales ordered Bunnings to return all were needed to satisfy Bunnings IOU Chep pallets to Chep. Bunnings complied obligations. Justice McDougall relied on with the order and returned 17,526 Chep evidence of the reconciliation process pallets that were owed to Bunnings suppliers conducted by Chep. who were customers of Chep. The remaining As the Court was satisfied that Bunnings 64,690 Chep pallets were not subject to any possessed Non-Commercial Chep identifiable hire agreement (Non-Commercial pallets, this amounted to conversion as Chep pallets). it controlled these pallets inconsistently with the rights of the owner, Chep. Issues considered by the court The Court found on the evidence that Bunnings did unlawfully detain Non Whether Chep had the right to Commercial Chep pallets by using them immediate possession of Chep pallets in the ordinary course of its business. held by Bunnings; The Court also relied on evidence of Whether Bunnings had Chep pallets in its demands by Chep to Bunnings made possession that were Non-Commercial over several years to return Chep pallets. Chep pallets; and if so Whether Bunnings converted Non The Court found Bunnings had no Commercial Chep pallets; and right to an implied licence in relation to Non-Commercial Chep pallets. Justice Whether Bunnings unlawfully detained
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Article supplied by Harwood Andrews Lawyers

Environment

Carbon Reporting Update

6,000,000 kWh of electricity per month (an annual electricity bill of $8.5 million). Although the Federal Governments Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme has been put on hold until 2013 at the earliest, companies Facility level threshold in the transport and logistics space should 250,000L of petrol per month be aware that they will continue to incur (2,500,000km per month); or reporting obligations under the National 225,000L of diesel per month Greenhouse and Energy Reporting (2,925,000km per month); or Act 2007 (NGER Act). Companies are 1,750,000 kWh of electricity per encouraged to continue to prepare for the month (an annual electricity bill of $2.5 transition to a low-carbon economy and are million). reminded that a failure to comply with the NGER Act can result in significant penalties, 2010/2011 Financial Year including personal liability for CEOs. Importantly, while the facility level threshold for the 2010/2011 financial year remains 2009/2010 Financial Year unchanged, the corporate group level threshold reduces to 50kt of greenhouse The registration and reporting deadlines gases or 200TJ of energy for the 2010/2011 for the 2009/2010 financial year are fast year. The following is an approximate approaching on 31 August 2010 and 31 indication of the 2010/2011 threshold: October 2010 respectively. The thresholds for the 2009/2010 year will be triggered if: Corporate group level threshold
Carbon Reporting Update

group, which may include complex structures involving subsidiaries, joint ventures and partnerships. Cornwall Stodart is also able to assist in assessing which facilities are under the operational control of the controlling corporations group. If companies are unsure whether they are required to register and report for either the 2009/2010 or 2010/2011 financial years, they should promptly seek legal advice. Article supplied by Cornwal Stodart Lawyers
For further information, please contact Ian Sinclair, Partner and Head of Transport & Logistics, on +61 3 9608 2166 or i.sinclair@cornwalls.com.au or Dean Katz, Lawyer, on +61 3 9608 2253 or d.katz@cornwalls.com.au.

(a) all the facilities under the operational control of the controlling corporations group exceed 87.5kt of greenhouse gases or 350TJ of energy (ie the corporate group level threshold); or (b) a single facility under a members operational control exceeds 25kt of greenhouse gases or 100TJ of energy (ie the facility level threshold). In more practical terms, the following is an approximate indication of the 2009/2010 thresholds: Corporate group level threshold 860,000L of petrol per month (8,600,000km per month); or 760,000L of diesel per month (9,880,000km per month); or

500,000L of petrol per month (5,000,000km per month); or 450,000L of diesel per month (5,850,000km per month); or 3,500,000 kWh of electricity per month (an annual electricity bill of $5 million). Companies and their corporate groups should assess whether or not they are likely to fall within the thresholds for the 2010/2011 financial year and, if so, must begin recording greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption from 1 July 2010. Next Steps Cornwall Stodart is able to assist in navigating through the legislation and regulations, including by identifying the controlling corporation and defining the members of the controlling corporations

Bids in for Cars of the Future

An invitation to participate in a trial of electric vehicles has attracted 76 submissions, covering more than 100 components of the five-year trial. The trial will provide real-world information to help plan for electric vehicles in Victoria. It also aims to understand the electric vehicle market, driver and recharging behaviour and the impact of electric vehicles on energy demand. The final design of the trial and participants is due to be finalised by August this year.
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VTA State Conference 2010

Feature
VTA State Conference 2010
The VTA State Conference was held on Monday 24th and Tuesday 25th May at Novotel Forest Resort Creswick (near Ballarat). The Conference was well attended, with over 130 delegates joining for an interactive and informative two days. Following are some conference Highlights:
Productivity Session:

sessions with their top customers. They identify, quantify and prioritise all potential value opportunities.
Safety Session:

Low seat belt use Fatigue Drugs Tailgating

David Shelton, Executive Director Road Safety & Network Access, Vic Roads presented on Improving Road Safety in Victoria. David addressed the road safety trends since 1970, showing that there has been a steady decrease in the road toll over each decade. The Arrive Alive Campaign continues and has a new 2008-2017 target which aims to reduce deaths and serious injuries by 30% and to reduce the severity of injuries. While Victoria is regarded as a world leader in road safety, on Victorias roads last year 290 people were killed, about 7000 were seriously injured, including 1000 people with brain injuries or confined to a wheelchair. Road trauma costs each Victorian household around $1800 a year.

Victorian Road Freight Advisory Council Session:

Tim Pallas, MP, Minister for Roads and Ports provided the opening presentation for the Victorian Road Freight Advisory Council Session. Minister Pallas spoke about the trials of Higher Productivity Freight Vehicles, In the eyes of the community, big means dangerous, and thats a fear that the community will take a long time to shake. And until it can shake that fear, politicians will be constrained. And that constraint is why, in the case of 30-metre B-doubles, I have declared a two-year trial. The Minister also addressed the recently introduced Truck Lane Restrictions, saying Its not necessarily unsafe to use the righthand lane. Being safe and importantly appearing to be safe are critical for your industry.

Matthew Blizzard, CEO, Wettenhalls Group presented on The Wettenhalls Group approach toward Making Your Business more Profitable. Matthew shared some insights into the key initiatives driving the Group to transition into a fully capable Tier 2 Logistics Service provider by 2012. The Wettenhalls group operates within 6 clearly defined performance principles, which are: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Business Health Operational Excellence People, Performance & Culture Innovation & Business Improvement Collaborative Customer Approach In 2009 the number of people killed Clear Growth Strategies involving heavy vehicles (excluding buses) was 39, and 307 were seriously injured. The Wettenhalls holds collaborative logistics safety challenges for Heavy Vehicles are:

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People/Industrial Relations Session:

Australia Post has consumed approximately 31 million litres of petrol and diesel each On Day 2 the Fair Work Ombudsman, year for the past three years with the fleet Michael Campbell, gave a overview of the generating over 90,000 green house gas Fair Work reform. The Ombudsmans office tonne (CO2e) per year. This represents has worked with the Transport Industry approximately 35% of the corporations since 2007. During this time they have greenhouse gas emissions. received more than 3200 complaints and recovered $2.6m for underpaid employees. Primary source of emissions is attributed to: Prime Movers 39% Rommie Redlich, TWUSUPER, presented Large trucks 24% on Retirement Planning. According to the Mail vans 14% Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia, you need the following amounts The EDP was developed with the aim to live on each year: of assessing if driver behaviour can be Retired singles comfortable lifestyle influenced, and to determine the most - $38,611 effective and cost effective way to influence Retired couples comfortable lifestyle driver behaviour. - $51,727 Base data has been collected between Rommie emphasised that retirement September 2009 and February 2010 planning doesnt stop when you stop and analysis to date shows at least a 20% working and that it is important to seek reduction in idling time. advice and educate yourself, to stop and think of yourself and your future.
Agenda Session: Environment Session:

Safety Assist

Michael Nealer from Safety Assist gave an update on the projects current activities, which include: Site inspections Workplace audits / training Development of Industry Alliances Queuing at Distribution Centres Loading, Unloading Exclusion Zones Container Loading / Unloading Palletising Warehouse Orders Fitness for Work

On the Monday evening a special dinner was held, giving guests the opportunity to relax and network over drinks and beverages. The special guest entertainment was provided by Greg Champion (of the Coodabeens) who delighted the audience with his witty jokes and footy songs. The VTA has produced a State Conference DVD which is available free to all delegates or at a low price for non-delegates. The DVD includes all the conference presentations, plus video footage of selected sessions and highlights. To obtain your copy contact the VTA reception on 03 9646 8590.

Chris Pearce, Manager Network Distribution Operations, Australia Post, briefed the session on the Australia Post Environmental Driver Program (EDP).

The Agenda Session covered a number of important industry issues, including: Electronic Work Diaries Technology in Empty Container Management Load Restraint Pallet Management

www.vta.com.au

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Industrial Relations
New Minimum Wage
New Minimum Wage Released

cies dealing with training and consultation with workers; and these processes and procedures are actually implemented. An officer CANNOT DELEGATE his/her duty under the Model Bill.
Individual Obligations and Duties Workers

Effective from 1 January 2012, each state and territory has agreed to enact the same On 3 June 2010 Fair Work Australia (FWA) work health and safety statute, regulations announced the following: and codes of practice. The draft Model Work Health and Safety Bill (Model Bill), 1. An increase of $26 per week for national which will be mirrored in each state and system Award employees on the basis of a territory, is now available. 38 hour week; and 2. A national minimum wage order, which applies to Award/Agreement free employees, containing: (a) a national minimum wage of $569.90 per week or $15 per hour; (b) a casual loading of 21 per cent; and (c) two special national minimum wages for Award/Agreement free employees with a disability.
Individual Obligations and Duties Officers

Individual workers also have obligations to take reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of others, to comply with reasonable instructions and to cooperate with reasonable health and safety policies and procedures. The definition of worker includes all employees, contractors, sub-contractors, employees of labour hire companies, apprentices, trainees and work experience students.
Recommendations and Summary

What should transport operators be doing now? What is the duty? An officer must exercise Identify all hazards at your workplace due diligence to ensure the transport and conduct risk assessments. The increases take effect from the first operator complies with its health and safety Amend your policies and procedures full pay period on or after 1 July 2010. duties. This is a new and positive obligation to ensure appropriate processes and Employers planning to phase in the pay requiring officers to ensure: resources are in place to eliminate/ provisions in Modern Awards will be they are aware of all health and safety minimise risks to health and safety and required to calculate any transitional hazards and risks arising from the opto handle incidents, hazards and risks as amounts using the varied wage rates. erations of the business; they arise. the business has (and uses) resources Ensure management understands Health and Safety: Personal liability and processes to eliminate or minimise its obligations and regularly addresses under the Model Health and Safety at health and safety risks; workplace health and safety issues and Work legislation - Background the business has in place proper policompliance. Review all contracts entered into Penalties - Individuals can be prosecuted under the Model Bill. The maximum to ensure any health and safety issues penalties have been substantially increased, including: Category of Offence Offence by an officer Offence by a worker and responsibilities are addressed and complied with. (breach of the duty to
exercise due diligence)

Who is an officer? This includes directors, company secretaries and those who participate in making decisions that affect the whole or a substantial part of the business. Accordingly, senior management may be covered.

Recklessly exposing someone to risk of death or serious illness or injury

Failing to comply with a health and safety duty that exposes someone to risk of death or serious illness or injury Simply failing to comply with a health Fine of up to and safety duty (regardless of whether $100,000 or not that failure exposes anyone to a health and safety risk)
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Fine of up to $600,000; and/or Gaol for up to 5 yrs Fine of up to $300,000

Fine of up to $300,000; and/or Gaol for up to 5 yrs Fine of up to $150,000 Fine of up to $50,000

It can take time to implement changes and, therefore, transport operators should be addressing the due diligence requirements now.
For further information, please contact Tracey Davies, Partner, Cornwall Stodart on +61 3 9608 2177 or t.davies@ cornwalls.com.au or Clare Hudson, Senior Associate, Cornwall Stodart on +61 3 9608 2140 or c.hudson@cornwalls.com.au.

Member News
Wettenhalls Update DECA puts Bushmaster through its paces Tasmanian Transport Association

Wettenhalls Group Switches to LNG Transport and Logistics specialist the Wettenhalls group has switched to liquefied natural gas with the purchase of a Kenworth K108 prime mover fitted with a Westport gas engine. The prime mover will carry freight for dairy food company Fonterra from Victorias western district to Melbourne. Wettenhalls Operational Development Manager, Steve Biggs says the company did plenty of research before deciding to trial the prime mover, but expects the company might have 60 LNG-powered trucks in its fleet within 10 years. This is our first major investment in reducing the carbon emissions from our vehicle fleet, he says. Driver Education Centres of Australia (DECA), Australias foremost provider of transport training and education, has conducted two training courses for defence contractor Thales Australia specifically in the operation of the Bushmaster armoured infrantry vehicle. Thales is probably best known is Australia as the manufacturer of the Bushmaster, a specially-designed, highly-mobile armoured infantry vehicle, designed to rapidly deploy battle-ready troops in all field conditions. DECA assisted by helping Thales develop and deliver the most appropriate level of vehicle specific training so that their customers can in turn train their own personnel.

The Tasmanian Transport Association (TTA) is an organisation of transport operators, freight forwarders and shippers operating in Tasmania, with close links to organisations in other states. The Association is committed to promoting efficient, effective transport to, from and within Tasmania by influencing the regulation of transport, the provision of transport infrastructure and the delivery of transport services. The TTA Annual Dinner is being held on Saturday November 6th 2010 at the Wrest Point Casino, Hobart. To find out more about the Tasmanian Transport Association, visit www.tta.org.au or call Robin Philips on 0409 274 482
Logical Staffing Have Moved

Westvic Container Export and Wettenhalls Mawsons Employee Assistance In early June the Wettenhalls Group announced the merger of the Wettenhalls Group and Warrnambools Westvic Container Services. Westvic has been providing the Western Region with service for many years now, and by joining forces with Wettenhalls the partnership will build on the many existing strengths. The merger will take full advantage of Westvics rail capabilities, and Wettenhalls extensive national network. With the effective use of multimodal transport they aim to reduce carbon emissions and reduce truck movements through country towns. As part of an on-going employee wellbeing program, the staff of concrete and quarry products specialisty compay Mawsons, based in Cohuna, recently heard from a specialist Beyond Blue depression counsellor. After the presentation Mawsons introduced their new Employee Assistance Program. The program offers all employees and their immediate families access to an expert counselling service which is completely independent of Mawsons. Counselling can be over-the-phone or faceto-face and includes advice or support in matters including depression, anxiety, drug abuse, gambling and family disputes.

Logical Staffing Solutions have moved to a bigger and brighter premises in Laverton North. Logical Staffing Solutions is a specialist provider of Labour and Hire Services providing casual on-hire labour and permanent recruitment within Transport, Logistics, light Industrial, Administration and Office Support. The new address is Unit 10, 110-116 Fitzgerald Road, Laverton North. Logical can be contacted on 03 9369 1977

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On the Road Truck Exclusion Lanes

Truck Lane Restrictions From 1 July

From 1 July trucks are now restricted from the right hand lane on the Princes Freeway between Western Ring Road Interchange in Altona North to Avalon Road at Lara. The restrictions apply to all heavy vehicles over 4.5 tonnes (except buses and caravans) and the rules apply 24-hoursa-day, with truck drivers caught using the restricted lane subject to a maximum penalty of $358. The Government has enforced these restrictions due to community concerns about road sharing and in an aim to create safer and more efficient driving on the roads. The 39 kilimetre stretch of the Princes Freeway is the first three-or-more lane highway where the restrictions will apply, with EastLink to follow. Extensive signage has been installed to advise drivers of the new lane restrictions and an education campaign is being launched around how all types of vehicles can learn to share the roads more effectively. The VTA will be closely monitoring this trial

to ensure that it does not affect the safety or efficiency of the transport drivers or industry.
Anthonys Cutting Realignment

west and improve access to the port.

Coaching Trial a World First for Motorcycle Safety

Construction on the $200 million Western Highway Anthonys Cutting Realignment project is progressing at a rapid pace as the landscape on the new alignment changes every day. Work has started on the Djerriwarrh Creek Bridge. The crossing over Djerriwarrh Creek is the largest structure being built and will be 165 metres long and 30 metres high, making it the tallest bridge of its kind in Victoria.
New Bike Hire Scheme Started

A world-first trial of on-road coaching for beginner motorcycle riders was announced today as part of a Brumby Labor Government strategy to improve motorcycle safety on Victorian roads. The VicRide: on-road coaching trial will include 2400 newly licensed riders and will how effective coaching can be in making motorcyclists safer road users. Motorcyclists are 38 times more likely to be seriously injured in a crash than car drivers and passengers. Novice riders in particular have a high crash involvement. Since 2002 there has been a reduction in motorcyclist fatalities by 31 per cent in Victoria compared to an increase of 19 per cent for the rest of Australia. However, this year weve seen a dramatic increase in the number of riders being killed on our roads with 32 dead almost double the number at the same time last year.
IAP Enabling Access to Local Government Roads

The first ten bike stations are open to the public as part of Melbournes new bicycle hire scheme. The innovative bike-sharing program allows commuters to hire bicycles at key locations around the city, seven days a week. Access to the bicycles is available by signing up to a yearly subscription of $50 or a daily subscription of $2.50 from kiosks located at bike stations.
Bridge Strengthening Starts

AECOM has been awarded the design contract for the strengthening of Shepherd Bridge in Yarraville. The upgrade to the bridge marks the first stage of the Victorian Governments $380 million Truck Action Plan. The plan aims to get the trucks off residential streets in the
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The IAP is enabling the transport industry and local governments to negotiate access by allowing more productive freight vehicles onto local road networks according to TCAs CEO Mr Chris Koniditsiotis. In Cootamundra, the Shire Councils officers sought a detailed briefing from a local transport operator on the workings of the

Technology on the Road

IAP in order to make an informed decisions outlines the potential of a partnership about the application for Higher Mass Limits approach for the use of technology. access to their local road network. The NTC believes that a national strategy The assurance provided by the IAP enabled will provide a clear and consistent policy the Cootamundra Shire Council to approve for technology use and give industry the access over locally-owned roads to a site confidence they need to invest. In-vehicle which is not directly accessible from a State- telematics encompasses the electronic owned road. monitoring and management of vehicles, their devices and their loads. Mr Koniditsiotis said there are some common lessons learnt from operators $24 Million Overpass for Palmers Rd to who have successfully negotiated access:
Williams Landing

information required to make an informed decision, with all vehicles listed also being under $15,000.
NSW Introduce Tough New Penalties for Overheight Vehicles in Road Tunnels

Fine in NSW for drivers of overheight trucks that hit tunnels will be increase 12fold, and the Government will convene a Tunnels Taskforce to find ways of stamping out the problem. The current on the spot fine for drivers who enter road tunnels with overheight trucks or overheight loads is $141 and no demerit points. From 1 August, the NSW Government will increase this to a fine of $1776 and six demerit points. The Tunnels Taskforce will consider the following: Technologyandinfrastructure measures such as dangle bars, barriers and other potential early warning signals; Legislativeoptions,including whether the current road rules and relevant penalties are in line with community expectations; Educationalprogramstoraise awareness of tunnel heights, penalties, safety precautions and alternative routes; and Diversionaryoptionsintheevent of a truck striking a tunnel, including contra flow systems or traffic diversions.

Provision of a professional submission to local council; The submission to be inclusive of the benefits to all stakeholders, including addressing social, environmental and economic elements; Clearly understand the motivation of local council in responding to its concerns. Transport Certification Australia Limited (TCA) is the organisation administering the Intelligent Access Program (IAP). For further details visit www.iap.gov.au
National Strategy to Harness the Potential of Technology in the Road Freight Industry

Residents of Point Cook and surrounding areas will get a direct road link to the new Williams Landing Railway Stations, due to an extension of the Palmers Road overpass beyond the Princes Freeway and across the Werribee rail line. The works will start by the end of the year, with completion expected in 2012-13, it will provide a significant boost for both new communities in the west and for existing residents.
First Car List to Improve Safety for Young Drivers

The widespread uptake of technology in the road freight industry could improve road safety, reduce transport costs and cut emissions according to a draft strategy released by the National Transport Commission (NTC) in June. The Draft National In-Vehicle Telematics Strategy: The Road Freight Sector was developed in consultation with governments, industry and unions and it

In late June the Victorian Government released a list of the safest and most affordable cars for young drivers to help guide the purchase of safer first vehicles. Young people make up just 13 per cent of drivers, but they account for around 25 per cent of all driver fatalities. Among other factors, poorly informed vehicle choice accounts for a large percentage of the risk confronting young people on the roads.

The NSW Minister for Roads, David Borger, said The Government is sending a clear message to truck drivers to check the height of their load before approaching a tunnel. There have been 150 incidents in the past year alone where overheight trucks have hit tunnels, and frankly this has The list provides new drivers with the safety to stop.
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Safety Focus

Tune Your Fleet Edition 2

Prosecution Highlights Safety Language Barrier

The following program elements are being implemented or considered: Workplace visits will be undertaken by Workcover inspectors throughout metropolitan and regional areas. Visits will focus on verifying and securing as required compliance of Consignors with their legislative obligations. High freight movement organisation distribution and receiving depots will be targeted Activities will be undertaken to raise driver awareness of the responsibilities for all parties within the supply chain. Truck-stop driver awareness days.

operations. The Project Steering Committee recently issued a Survey to members on exclusion zone practices within transport yards, DCs, etc. The Survey data has been valuable to the Project Team in understanding the realities of current loading and unloading practices, and efforts to segregate people from machinery during those operations. If you would like to find out more about the LUEZ Project, contact Simon Skazlic, K&S Freighters, e: simon.skazlic@ksgroup.com.au
Tune Your Fleet Edition 2 Booklet and DVD Launched

WorkSafe Victoria has emphasised that companies employing workers with limited English must make sure workers are trained and able to do their job safely. The comments come after WorkSafe prosecuted a Murrayville-based potato farm for failing to ensure a worker with limited English received clear instruction and training before operating a telehandler (similar to a forklift or tractor, but has a boom attached). The Farm was convicted and fined $40,000.

In addition, it has come to light that This is a reminder for employers about their Workcover NSW is advocating that legal duties to ensure workers are provided regulations on heavy vehicle driver fatigue with information, instruction, training or should be included in the new national supervision which enables them to perform OH&S legislation. If this occurs, national their work in a way that is safe and without OH&S requirements on heavy vehicle driver risks to health. fatigue would be in force nationally from 1 January 2012. For more information and advice go to www.worksafe.vic.gov.au
Loading/Unloading Exclusion Zone Project LUEZ NSW Long Distance Truck Driver Safety Improvement Strategy

Tune Your Fleet is an initiative of the Victorian Transport Association (VTA) supported by the State Government of Victoria and VicRoads. As part of an ongoing strategy to assist transport businesses reduce their fuel consumption and lower emissions the Tune Your Fleet Program is aimed at providing information to fleet operators, owner drivers and freight and logistics users/clients. Tune Your Fleet focuses on various ways that fleet operators and drivers can reduce their fuel consumption to achieve best practice by paying attention to vehicle technology, driving technique and scheduling and by further staff awareness. The program aims to deliver positive environmental and productivity outcomes. Tune Your Fleet Booklet Edition 1 Edition 1 of the Tune Your Fleet Booklet was produced in April 2009. The booklet was developed by a VTA research team and covered important information on the

The safety of truck drivers and other personnel in the vicinity of mobile plant Workcover NSW has embarked on a equipment during loading and unloading blitz to enforce the OH&S legislative activities is a major concern across supply requirements in NSW for drivers engaged chains. The injuries sustained by truck in long distance operations (over 500km) to drivers and other personnel in loading and have Safe Driving Plans. unloading zones tend to be severe given the nature of the accidents. Workcover have developed a six element strategy to improve long distance truck The aim of the LUEZ Project is to develop driver safety. The strategy consists of a package of best-practice guidance a combination of short and long-term material that will be available to all supply initiatives to address the range of issues chain participants, encompassing transport associated with the long haul and heavy companies, operators of DCs, consignors vehicle industry. & consignees manufacturing and processing
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Transport Health
following areas: tyres, wheels and alignment, aerodynamics, specification and design, fleet routing and scheduling, and training your workforce. Tune Your Fleet Information Seminars Five Tune Your Fleet Seminars were held through 2009. The sessions concentrated on the key items that influence fuel consumption. These included areas such as tyres, aerodynamics, wheel alignment, routing and scheduling, staff awareness information and equipment specification. The sessions were well attended and provided valuable feedback to the program, which was incorporate in the release of the second Tune Your Fleet booklet. Tune Your Fleet Booklet Edition 2 & Dvd Edition 2 of the Tune Your Fleet Booklet was produced in early 2010, following the conclusion and report back from all the activities undertaken in 2009. The updated version of the booklet brings together the key lessons learnt in 2009 along with updated information. Edition 2 of the Booklet was officially launched on Monday 24th May by Minister for Roads and Ports, Tim Pallas MP, at the VTA State Conference. At the launch Minister Pallas said I want to congratulate the VTA on this booklet, not just because of the message in it, but also because of the clarity of whats contained in it. Lots of diagrams, lots of graphs, lots of getting to the point quickly and succinctly. To obtain your copy of the Tune Your Fleet Booklet and DVD contact the VTA on 03 9646 8590.
Do you understand the Australian Health System?

hospital cover. Families have an additional $1500, income threshold for each child after the first.

In Australia, the hospital system comprises of both public and private hospitals.

Pay less with the Medicare Rebate All eligible members under 65 years old, Medicare is the public health scheme, proregardless of their income receive a 30% viding health care, both medical and hospital rebate for contributing to private health to all eligible Australian residents. Medicare insurance. Members between the age of is funded by the government and a levy 65 to 69 receive a 35% rebate and over 70 paid by individuals on their taxable income. years old you receive a 40% rebate. Most Medicare covers public hospital accommo- members choose to receive this rebate as a dation and medical expenses when admitreduced premium. ted to a public hospital as a public patient and treated by a hospital appointed doctor Savings before you turn 30 - Lifetime or specialist. Health Cover Private health insurance provides cover for hospital accommodation in either private or public hospitals. For individuals who have taken responsibility for these costs, you have greater control over when, where and by whom, treatment is provided. A premium loading is applicable to hospital tables when individuals first join a health fund if over the age of 30. The loading increases in increments of 2% each year thereafter and applies for a continuous period of 10 years. The maximum loading that can apply to a person is 70%.

Patients can consult any specialist of their choice and be admitted to a private hospital After continuous hospital cover for 12 at a time that suits them. months individuals can cancel their cover for a combined period of 1094 days throughGeneral Treatment is available through priout their lifetime and then resume their vate health insurance where members can private hospital cover without additional elect to take additional cover for services (LTHC) Lifetime Health Cover penalty. such as dental, physiotherapy, chiropractic, optical and much more extras in most This information is provided by Transport circumstances can be taken on there own Health, the insurer to the transport industry: or together with hospital cover. A history of caring since 1888 Why take private hospital cover? As a not-for-profit organisation, our mission Save on your tax Medicare levy surcharge is to deliver value for money health insurEffective from 1 July 2010 if you are single ance and related services to employees and and earn over $77,000 per annum, or a families of the transport industry couple or family with a combined income in excess of $154,000 will have to pay a Medicare Levy Surcharge of 1% of their taxable income if they do not have private
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VWMA Update The Power of Industry Associations

The challenge to the Governments Super Profit Tax by the Mining industry through their industry association, the Minerals Council of Australia is a classic example of how industry associations influence government policy. Of course the mining industry is a hugely powerful organisation whose members turn over hundreds of billions of dollars and hence they can afford to pay significant membership dues to fund the activities of their association. When the Government announced that they were going to tax the super profits of mining, the industry swung into action. They quickly developed ads for television that extolled the economic contribution that the mining industry makes to the wealth of this country and the hundreds of thousands of people that are employed. Their CEO hit the airwaves and whether due to their clever marketing or the Governments ineptitude of trying to sell the tax; the community became concerned that the mining industry was on the brink of packing up their picks and shovels and going off to the Congo, Indonesia or Mongolia. Of course there was plenty of hyperbole and no shortage of colourful industry characters that were happy to put their spin on it. As they say, the rest is history with a Prime Ministerial scalp and the new PM reopening the debate with everything on the table. Thats some influence! That the MCA played such hard ball to protect its members interests (even though they admitted that they could afford more tax) demonstrated the power they wielded. That they can do so is because they have a thorough knowledge of their industry, they lead their industry through a commitment
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to OH&S and training and contributing to the public policy debate about sustainable development. And its just not the Council that promotes the collective view but also the strong engagement of their members (it obviously helps when you are BHP or Rio Tinto) There are lessons for all industry associations in the Mineral Councils model and they are these: a clear statement of purpose, a vision for the future of the industry, a commitment to safety on the job and continuous improvement through training and perhaps most importantly, industry engagement. Waste services are also a hugely important part of Australias quality of life. Without the efficient removal and treatment of waste, the recovery of resources and energy and the safe disposal of the remainder, third world conditions would ensue. Governments dont adequately acknowledge the role that the waste industry plays and they have a poor

track record in consulting with us before imposing policies, levies or regulations on the community in the name of environment protection. It is up to us as an association to build our influence with Governments so that they recognise us as key players in shaping policy. To be an effective association, members support is crucial. Feedback on issues, support at events, nominating for the Board all underpin a strong association. We would not be anywhere without your financial support first and foremost but like all not for profits we need you more. The VWMA will shortly survey members to provide information to enable us to build a better profile of our economic impact and the issues that we rate as important which will form the basis for our interaction with Government, leading up to the State election later this year. Please get involved and support the survey.
Andrew Tytherleigh, Executive Officer, VWMA.

VWMA members, John and Penny Tasios of Argus Recycling

Careers Workforce Advisory Group

Victorian Transport & Logistics Workforce Advisory Group

The VTA is represented on the newlyformed Victorian Transport & Logistics (T&L) Workforce Advisory Group. Supported through the Victorian Freight & Logistics Council (VFLC), the key objectives of the T&LWAG are to assist the T&L industry to improve workforce planning, recruitment and staff retention practices, and to support appropriate T&L industry education, training and employment initiatives. The Victorian T&LWAG comprises representatives from industry across all transport modes, training industry advisors and experts, and government officials from education & training and transport portfolios. It has an important role in coordinating advice to governments on the workforce development needs of the T&L industry.

The Victorian T&LWAG is part of a growing network of Workforce Advisory Groups being established in each State / Territory, and will feed into coordinated actions at a national level through a National T&LWAG. Victoria will host the next meeting of the National T&LWAG in Melbourne on 18th August 2010.
VTA State Conference Careers Session

Pay must be appropriate Train both internally and externally Provide a variety of interesting work and tasks Provide mentors Ensure you have regular follow-up
New Appointment to the VTA Welcome Kerri Langes

The VTA has appointed a new staff member, Kerri Langes, to the role of Business Development Manager. Many in the industry will know Kerri from her previous role as Program Manager of the Cadetship in Logistics program at TDT (Transport and Distribution Training) Victoria. Kerris role has been created to liaise with current members and to identify products and services that will benefit the industry. She will also engage with the wider industry to promote the benefits of becoming a VTA member. To contact Kerri call the VTA on 03 9646 8590 or email her directly, kerri@vta.com.au

Geoff Jackson, National HR and Risk Manager, Toll IPEC, presented at the VTA State Conference on careers in the transport industry and attracting and training drivers.

Geoff pointed out some of the current issues facing the industry in respect to attracting staff: The industry is diverse and competitive Current issues and initiatives in which the There is a lack of investment in future T&LWAG is engaged include: skills focus is often on getting through today Development of a strategic marketing There is a failure to harness the range plan aimed at ensuring that the work of of Government support available the Group is targeted and effective; Government support is not always ef Development of School Work Expefective or suitable rience materials to encourage links between T&L businesses and secondToll IPEC has tried a number of options ary school students undertaking work including Cadetships, Group Training, experience placements in industry Traineeships, Apprenticeships, Work Promotion of the TDT Victoria Cadet- Experience, TWU Mentor Program and ship in Logistics program on a national others. basis Undertaking a Gippsland T&L Future Through all these efforts Toll IPEC has learnt Workforce Development project in that the success factors are: support of the Victorian Governments Programs must be well organised initiative to finalise a freight strategy for Dont throw the recruits in at the deep the eastern region of Victoria. end

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Major Alliance Partners

The VTA thanks our alliance partners for the many ways in which they support our association. It is this support that lets us contribute to work on behalf of our members. The VTA encourages the use of these companies and their services wherever possible and remember to mention you are a VTA member.

To run a successful organisation, you need the right support. Like a partner who challenges conventional thinking to give you the edge. At Optus, we team up with best-of-breed suppliers to provide tailored solutions for freight, distribution, and logistics clients covering everything from mobility to the next generation networks. So whatever your business goals, talk to our team. Well work behind the scenes to help you stay out in front. For assistance on any of your Telecommunications needs, please contact:

As the industry fund for the transport and logistics industry, TWUSUPER offers members strong performance, low fees, no commissions and outstanding service. Did you know that you can keep your TWUSUPER account for life? If you change employer, you dont have to move your super to another fund and in most instances, you can instruct your new employer to pay your super directly into your existing TWUSUPER account. If you are preparing for retirement or retiring, you can use our pension products to access your super savings as a source of regular income.

Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific is the umbrella brand for an exciting portfolio of both new and long-established businesses - Mercedes-Benz, Freightliner, Sterling, Fuso, Smart and Mercedes-Benz Financial Services, all forming part of the group in the region. Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific is one of four regional centres operating within Asia., responsible for operations in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Papau New Guinea, New Caledonia and Tahiti.

Contact Brian Hesketh at VTA for your direct Optus Business Contact.

Call 1800 222 071 www.twusuper.com.au or contact Rommie Redlich at VTA on 03 9646 8590

For more information visit www.mbaup.com.au or call 1300 66 22 30

Shell is extremely proud to have been part of commercial road transports (CRTs) remarkable journey over more than 100 years and is looking forward to being an integral part of the CRT Industry into the future. At Shell, its about developing enduring partnerships with their customers. The nationally based lubricants, bulk fuels and Shell Card specialists are geared to do just that. Their commitment to provide superior account management & technical support really sets them apart from the competition. Plus they have quality products to make the difference real.

The RSM Group is a licensed General Insurance Broker founded in Victoria in 1983. With a focus on Transport and Logistics, RSM has evolved into one of Australias most dynamic independent insurance broking houses in the industry. As a VTA Alliance Partner for over 10 years, RSM have a vast and in depth understanding of the issues members are continually confronted with. RSM is an enthusiastic professional team with a wide range of specialised industry knowledge that ensures you get the best advice on all your insurance and risk related inquiries.

In choosing your Workers Compensation provider, its important to look for reliability and proven experience in managing your workers compensation portfolio. QBE Workers Compensation (Vic) Ltd is committed to working with you to reduce your claims costs by managing your claims effectively to reduce premiums. The focus is achieving best practice in workplace injury prevention and claims management. QBE Workers Compensation (Vic) Ltd can assist with injury prevention services, tailored training and risk assessments for employers.

To find out more call 13 16 18

Call Greg Young on 1300 786 806 to see how RSM can help you.

For further information contact Ewan Thompson on 03 9246 2118 www.qbe.com.au

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Charities Supported

Logical Staffing Solutions is a specialist provider of Labour Hire Services, providing casual on-hire labour and permanent recruitment in: Transport, Professional Transport Drivers, Logistics, Distribution/Warehouse Light Industrial, Manufacturing/Production Administration and Management and Office Support/Management. Phone Marlene Tyquin 03 9646 3600 www.logicalstaffing.com.au

MaxiTRANS is the company behind the market leading trailer brands Freighter, MaxiCUBE and Lusty EMS which are designed and manufactured in Australia. Freighter offers a complete range of Tautliners, semis and skel trailers. The Maxi-CUBE range consists of Reefers, Chillers and Dry Freight vans, along with the unique Slide-A-Side van and the new Advance refrigerated van, offering the best thermal efficiency and lowest tare weight available in a van. Lusty EMS has a proud tradition of building premium quality aluminium tippers. MaxiTRANS also offers full repair, service and maintenance and crash repair services for trailers, vans and tippers.

www.berrystreet.org.au

Phone Neil Zantuck on 03 8368 1100.

Logical Executive Solutions focus exclusively Interested? on the selection and placement of senior professionals, primarily at management, If you are interested in becoming a VTA Alliance middle, and senior executive levels. or Supplier Partner, please contact Brian Hesketh on 03 9646 8590 or email Brian@vta.com.au They maintain a dedicated focus on executive and management appointments and are For a copy of the Alliance & Supplier Partners committed to enhancing the quality and Brochure please contact the VTA. effectiveness of recruitment services to the Transport and Logistics sector.

www.kidshelpline.com.au 1800 55 1800 www.parentline.com.au 1300 30 1300

Phone Caroline Taylor on 03 9821 4500 www.logicalexecutive.com.au

www.sacredheartmission.org

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Supplier Partners
The VTA thanks our supplier partners for the many ways in which they support our association. It is this support that lets us contribute to work on behalf of our members. The VTA encourages the use of these companies and their services wherever possible and remember to mention you are a VTA member.

As part of our role with VTA we are supplying back to the industry an Injury and OHS Assist Program uniquely designed by us for the Association to assist Members lower the cost of workplace injuries. Members who join this FREE program receive significant benefits in terms of free services and discounts on our rates.

Cummings Flavel McCormack is a chartered accounting firm created to deliver the highest quality service offering specialist taxation, accounting and audit services to owner-operated businesses. We provide the expertise that you would expect to receive from a large accounting firm but at a price that is often significantly lower.

Mobile Travel Agents of Australia is an award winning travel agency with over 115 fully experienced travel consultants. As a large group we have the benefit of access to more products, cheaper prices which provides great value for money. We are a Qantas Platinum Agency which means we are in the top 5% of agencies in Australia.

For more information contact David Castledine on either 1300 788 953 or email djc@workoptions.com.au www.workoptions.com.au

If you would like to know more about our services to the transport industry, contact Greg Hudswell on 03 9252 0800 or www.cfmc.com.au

Contact Beate Carr at MTA on Phone: 0412 787 781 or visit ww.mtatravel.com.au

Cornwall Stodart is a client focused, medium sized law firm offering a full range of legal services to a diverse range of clients operating across Australia. Widely recognised for our expertise in the Transport & Logistics industry, our services include negotiating and drafting commercial agreements and terms & conditions, advising on employment & industrial relations matters including occupational health & safety, acting on dispute resolution matters, advising on intellection property matters and drafting and negotiating construction contracts.

Latus staff are professionals who have extensive senior management experience in a broad range of industries. Latus can assist with short term projects or ongoing consulting assistance in most areas of your business. Latus is also a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) following the Australian Quality Framework and can provide Nationally recognised training throughout Australia.

Australian-owned & backed by three decades of IT experience, we are committed to delivering the right solution for your needs. End-to-end IT solutions Integrated technology solutions Hardware & software for 1-1000+ users Sustainable business systems Industry standard methodologies Security solutions for safety Help desk support Solid and extensive partnerships. Let us manage your IT, so that you can concentrate on managing your business.

For further information about our services contact Ian Sinclair on 03 9608 2166 or i.sinclair@cornwalls.com. au

For more details of our services call Mike Wood on 03 8620 2800 or email admin@latus.com.au www.latus.com. au

Call Stuart Wilson on 0402 575 576 or phone: 03 8587 7500 email: sales@trident. com.au www.trident.com.au

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priority report

Armstrongs has led the industry for 50 years by creating innovative driver/rider training delivered in a motivating environment to maximise the educational benefits to their clients. A Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and a VicRoads accredited motorcycle and heavy vehicle training and assessment centre; working under the Australian Quality Training Framework (AQTF).

Austral (a division of QBE Insurance) provides debt recovery solutions to all segments of industry and commerce including the transport sector. Benefits to VTA members include discounted commission rates, assistance with credit control & credit documentation, experienced and costeffective buying and management of legal services and a dedicated Melbourne based Account Manager.

With Transport Health, you dont need corporate deals or special rates. As the insurer to the industry we offer great cover and everyday low rates to people working in transport. We invite you to compare our costs and benefits youll be pleasantly surprised by what we offer. With great benefits paid for dental, physiotherapy, optical and much more including your choice of doctor and hospital, Transport Health really looks after the wellbeing of our Members. Contact Lisa Sultana today.

Phone Customer Service on 03 9464 6464 or email office@armdrive.com.au www.armdrive.com.au

For more details about our services contact Chris Dalton on 03 9937 5816 or email chris.dalton@australmercantile.com.au or visit www.australmercantile.com.au

Phone: (03) 8420 1888 Email: enquiries@transporthealth.com.au www.transporthealth.com.au

DECA Training, Australias largest provider of driver training and education, is dedicated to the improvement of productivity, efficiency and safety on the roads, through practical, structured training and consultancy services. Locations: Altona North, Shepparton, Newborough, Carrum Downs, Quakers Hill & Cessnock. McLean Corporate Promotions - Our people are the key to our success and our business formula is a winning combination of quality service, innovation and savvy branding. Contact us for promotional or corporate work wear as well as those special items for clients Offer 1 The best rate of the day with an additional 5% discount for VTA members. Standard insurance (Damage Liability Fee) can be reduced to $330 for $24/day. Call 1300 555 242 and quote CD # CCC15585 Offer 2 - Insurance (Damage Liability Fee) reduced to $770, with the option to further reduce the excess to NIL for just $9.90 per day. Call 1300 555 242 and quote CD # 47904721

Phone 1300 36 5400

Phone McLeans on 03 9770 8200 www.mcleanpromotions.com.au

Phone 1300 555 242 www.europcar.com.au

Meerkat is a Supply Chain Specialist consulting group. Meerkat provides a range of corporate advisory services including specialist productivity analysis throughout Australia.

Phone Mike Lescai, MD, on 1300 633 752 or email mike.lescai@meerkatgroup.com.au www.meerkatgroup.com.au
www.vta.com.au

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