NSW creates new permit for truckies to resolve border chaos

Truckies to get a new permit to resolve a messy process and lengthy delays crossing the NSW-Victorian border.

NSW has moved to change permits required by truck drivers to cross the border from Victoria. Picture: Jake Nowakowski

The NSW government has created a new permit for truck drivers to ensure they can transport thousands of tonnes of freight across the Victorian border each day without being told to self-isolate for at least 14 days.

Service NSW granted truck drivers permits after the border closure on Wednesday morning, but most were given Type A, which requires them to self-isolate upon entry into NSW after a surge in COVID-19 cases in metropolitan Melbourne.

Instead they needed a Type C or critical services permit, which allows unrestricted travel across the NSW-Victoria border. But truck drivers have been struggling to obtain that document, creating chaos at the border, including traffic jams up to four kilometres and 90 minute delays.

Truck drivers were still being told to self-isolate upon entry into NSW as late as Thursday morning. About 5000 trucks cross the main border crossing at Albury each day, with a further 3000 crossing at night.

“Despite holding permits and falling into the category of critical services, drivers were being issued with notices stating ‘you will be required to self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival in NSW,” Transport Workers Union Victoria and Tasmania branch secretary John Berger said.

“We know that transport workers are essential workers and often what they are carrying are essential goods. All levels of government must ensure truck drivers can continue to do their jobs without any bureaucratic red taps.”

In a letter to the Transport Workers Union, Transport for NSW executive director Susie MacKay said a new permit would be created, available from Thursday, with no requirement for truck drivers to quarantine themselves.

“After reviewing the criteria for critical services permits yesterday, NSW will be creating an additional permit to better support critical workers in the freight and transport sector and to clarify terms and conditions,” Ms MacKay wrote.

“This permit will allow people within the freight and transport industry to be able to travel between NSW and Victoria for the purpose of their duties, providing their employer has a COVID-10 safety plan and will not require them to self isolate.”

Ms MacKay said the new permit will be available via Service NSW from close of business on Thursday.

“In the meantime, freight and transport workers will still require the current critical services permit to enter NSW, but will not be held to account for any form of self-isolation. We are working to ensure the smooth facilitation of this change over the next 24 hours.”

Ms MacKay said COVID-19 safety plans involve ensuring employees are practising physical distancing and maintaining good hygiene practices to limit the spread of coronavirus.

“Transport for NSW is asking freight operators to be conscious of the significantly increased health risk in Victoria. We know you have stepped up to support communities across NSW during this time and we will continue to support the industry in every way we can with up to date information.”