Thirteen of Australia’s newest diversity champions will take part in an initiative that aims to improve industry image, build a stronger workforce and showcase opportunity.
In a special announcement at the Brisbane Truck Show today, the Australian Trucking Association and Teletrac Navman welcomed the 2021 Driving Change Diversity Program champions, who come from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, from truck driving and operation management through to training and administration.
“The trucking industry plays a crucial role in the lives of all Australians, but it has its challenges. There is a strong need for more drivers and skilled workers in all areas,” ATA Chair David Smith said.
“Diversity plays a big role in creating positive workplaces and is proven to develop more inclusive environments, increase productivity and give employers access to a greater range of talent.
“This program is our way of addressing this issue and broadening the industry talent pool. We are driving change to ensure our industry has the tools to foster inclusive and welcoming environments for people from all backgrounds and expertise,” he said.
The inaugural 2020 program saw an overwhelming amount of support from businesses and industry members, demonstrating an understanding of the importance of celebrating and embracing diversity.
The 2021 Driving Change Diversity Program will showcase its champions through a social media storytelling series, highlighting the diverse and varied opportunities on offer in the Australian trucking industry.
Champions will then be hosted at the ATA’s Trucking Australia conference in September for an intensive workshop where they will learn how to create change and facilitate diversity in their workplace and community, share personal insights, and develop clear action items on how to drive change within industry.
“As a proud leader of diversity and inclusion in industry, we’re thrilled to welcome our 2021 diversity champions,” Teletrac Navman Director of Marketing Australasia, Megan Duncan, said.
“While they may not realise it, these champions are already making a big difference in their workplace and communities, shining a light on the amazing opportunities the industry has to offer. The program is about coming together to share our connections and challenges, start a conversation and learn how we can drive change,” she said.
The 2021 Driving Change Diversity Champions are:
- Melissa Barry, NatRoad
- Sarah-Jane Collins, Australian Livestock and Rural Transporters Association
- Erin Compitiello, Victorian Transport Association
- Kerri Connors, Tasmanian Transport Association
- Lisa Fraser, Teletrac Navman
- Nicki French, Australian Furniture Removers Association
- Peta Gowans, Teletrac Navman
- David Haoust, Teletrac Navman
- Shane McLoughlin, TruckSafe
- Courtney Sertdemir, Road Freight NSW
- Hossain Someh, Queensland Trucking Association
- Hannah Stewart, Teletrac Navman
- Bronwyn Wilson, Teletrac Navman