Peak body Road Freight NSW (RFNSW) has welcomed the announcement of the first dedicated heavy vehicle rest stop in Western Sydney, saying it will help reduce driver-fatigue by providing hard-working truckies with a decent, safe location to rest, sleep, eat, shower and use toilet facilities.
Purpose-built on a six hectare greenfield site at Eastern Creek, five minutes from the M7 and 10 minutes from the M4, the truck stop will support long-haul drivers on the road between Pheasants Nest to the south of Sydney and Wyong to the north of Sydney – a distance of 180 kilometres and nearly two hours driving.
It will include flushing toilets, hot showers, clean drinking water and secluded sleeping bays and shaded areas, and is based on extensive consultation with RFNSW and feedback from its members and industry stakeholders. It will be delivered under joint funding from the Albanese and Minns Governments.
"This is great news for RFNSW and our members and we commend the NSW and Federal Governments for listening to us and helping us restore, dignity and respect for hard-working truckies," RFNSW Chief Executive Officer, Simon O'Hara, said today.
"A truck stop like this, in a strategic location close to busy motorways, is critical for long-haul drivers to better manage fatigue and do their job safely, reducing fatigue and the incidence and severity of heavy vehicle crashes on the NSW road network."
RFNSW was pleased that the new heavy vehicle rest area at Eastern Creek would also include separate toilet and shower facilities for female drivers.
"As we continue to experience labour shortages across the freight industry, not only do we need to retain our current workforce, but we need to recruit more young people, particularly women into our ranks," Mr. O'Hara explained.
"That's why it's imperative that we make the industry attractive for new talent and providing long-haul drivers with high-quality truck stops, where they can get appropriate rest and sleep, with separate clean, facilities for female drivers, is a must. Truckies deserve the same high standard of toilets and facilities that white collar workers expect from their employer."
About us:
Originating in 1893, Road Freight NSW (RFNSW) is the peak industry organisation for the road and freight industry in NSW and engages in advocacy, government and media relations on behalf of members.
