As Queensland works through its current snap lockdown, the Australian Logistics Council (ALC) has welcomed the reapplication of temporary planning measures to keep shelves stocked, but has called for “permanent relaxation” of outdated restrictions.
Interim CEO at ALC, Rachel Smith, commended the Queensland Government quick response in putting these measures back into place in response to the most recent lockdowns.
“The removal of overnight delivery curfews on overnight deliveries to supermarkets and other retail premises including removing bans on heavy vehicles using certain routes ensures shelves are stocked with essential food and groceries, household items such as cleaning supplies and toilet paper, and medical supplies.
“The most recent outbreak in Australia proves just how quickly the situation can evolve and demonstrates the need for permanent relaxation of these outdated restrictions. I encourage the government to undertake long term regulatory reform to enable the supply chain to have flexibility to meet the changing demands of the Queensland community to ensure demand is met in times of a crisis.
“Australia’s supply chain is the unsung heroes of this pandemic and ALC will continue to work with governments to ensure the sector can continue to meet the evolving needs of the Australian community.”
Smith says she hopes the Queensland Government can put “a mechanism” in place “to determine which regulations that have been relaxed during the COVID crisis can be permanently removed so as to enhance productivity, as is happening in NSW”.