Though truck curfews at WA supermarkets were eliminated back in 2020 as a result of the Covid pandemic, it seems not all local governments got the memo.
Transport and Planning Minister Rita Saffioti had approved planning changes under the State of Emergency to provide exemptions to vehicle operating hours to allow the supply of essential goods and services to supermarkets 24/7.
Though, she says, it is understood that some local governments may not have been operating under these rules.
The Freight and Logistics Council met with representatives from the State Government last week to identify supply and freight movement challenges impacting WA, given the situation on the east coast.
One issue raised was curfews on the times vehicles could deliver to supermarkets.
“In 2020 when the effects of COVID were beginning to be felt, we made changes to planning and development regulations to ensure the continuation of essential public services in a State of Emergency,” Saffioti said.
“One of these changes included removing curfews on the times vehicles could make deliveries to supermarkets.
“Local governments are aware that this policy is still in effect and trucks can deliver essential goods to stores 24/7, meaning we can keep our shelves stocked and provide essentials.
“Ensuring trucks can move and deliver items to shopping centres will assist with the smooth flow of essential products and ensure our supermarkets remain stocked.
“I know people are anxious, but there is no need to buy any more goods than you normally would. We will continue to engage with industry and stakeholders on our supply chains.
“We are examining a range of other measures to ensure we keep trucks and freight running and essential supplies available.”