Technology has a vital role in shaping a more productive, efficient and sustainable freight and logistics industry.
That was the key message from the Victorian Transport Association (VTA) CEO Peter Anderson in his address at WHG’s TechDRIVE Roadshow in Melbourne today.
Speaking to a broad audience of freight operators, technology providers, and government stakeholders, Anderson praised the innovation on display and urged the industry to embrace digital transformation while also addressing long-standing regulatory and workforce challenges.
“Technology is not just changing how we operate, it’s changing how we think,” Anderson said.
“From real-time data to predictive analytics, we now have the tools to make smarter decisions, reduce waste, and improve safety across the board.”
A key focus of the address was the growing importance of data in driving efficiency. Real-time telematics and analytics are enabling operators to optimise freight movement, reduce congestion, and enhance customer service.
With freight volumes expected to double in the coming decades, smarter systems—not simply more trucks—will be essential to managing demand and maintaining service standards.
Workforce sustainability and fair employment practices were also central to the discussion. The rise of gig economy models and sham contracting has created an uneven playing field, undermining both worker protections and legitimate operators. Anderson stressed the need for stronger safeguards to ensure all transport workers receive fair pay, entitlements, and safe working conditions.
“We must not allow technology to become a tool for exploitation,” he said. “Everyone in our industry deserves fair treatment and a future they can build on.”
Another major theme was the need to reform the heavy vehicle licensing and training system. The current model, which allows drivers to obtain a licence with minimal training, is failing to attract and prepare the next generation of professional drivers.
A shift toward a skills-based, nationally consistent framework is essential to ensure safety and build a sustainable workforce. Anderson expressed frustration at the decades-long delay in implementing reforms, noting that the industry has been calling for change since the 1990s.
Looking ahead, the freight sector must prepare for significant changes driven by population growth, evolving energy sources, and shifting supply chain models. Infrastructure alone will not solve congestion challenges – smarter planning, integrated transport solutions, and clearways will be required to keep freight moving efficiently.
Anderson concluded with a reminder of the essential role trucks play in the freight ecosystem: “Ships and trains move freight, but only trucks deliver. With the right technology, regulation, and people, we can ensure our industry remains strong, sustainable, and ready for the future.”
Launched in 2023 in Melbourne, WHG’s TechDRIVE Roadshow is billed as a fresh approach to industry engagement with a series of nation-wide events that spotlight the latest in technology and innovation.