GrainGrowers hosts free workshops for farmers about heavy vehicle laws

“Whether you pack, load, consign, move, receive, or unload goods transported on Australia’s roads, these laws apply to you.”

GrainGrowers has partnered with the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator to host free workshops in Emerald to help farmers better understand their role under Chain of Responsibility laws.

Central Queensland farmers are being encouraged to reduce any risks with upcoming transport of products through a free workshop in the Central Highlands.

Peak grains representative body GrainGrowers has partnered with the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) to host the free workshops to help farmers better understand their role under Chain of Responsibility (COR) laws.

Assistant Minister Road Safety and Freight Transport Scott Buchholz said the practical workshops — designed specifically for farmers — would help ensure produce was transported from paddock to plate in the safest possible way.

“Farmers are an essential part of the supply chain, so it’s important they understand their responsibilities to ensure they’re operating safely, and in compliance with COR laws,” he said.

“As we head into the harvest season, it’s a timely opportunity for farmers to check their safety procedures and mitigate any risks associated with their transport task.”

GrainGrowers general manager of Policy and Advocacy Zachary Whale said the workshops were designed to ensure everyone working on the farm could access practical information.

“Primary producers have legal obligations under the Chain of Responsibility if they own or operate a heavy vehicle, or if they contract transport services to another operator,” he said.
“Everyone who has influence over a transport activity has a role to play.

“Whether you pack, load, consign, move, receive, or unload goods transported on Australia’s roads, these laws apply to you.”

Mr Whale said reducing the risks related to transport safety was critical, with the supply chain and logistics industry accounting for 26 per cent of national worker fatalities.

“To comply with the law, you will need to know the risks of your transport activities and have business practices in place to control them,” he said.

The workshops have been funded by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative, supported by the Federal Government, and will be held in towns across Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.

The workshop with be held on August 17 at Emerald from 2pm to 5pm.

Register here to secure a place, with limited positions available.