The Queensland Trucking Association (QTA) has issued an urgent plea to the Queensland Government for industry subsidy support to off-set the financial hit operators are taking in the on-going flood crisis in the state.
The QTA said the current wet season has left many truck fleets immobilised for more than 10 days, leading to daily losses for businesses ranging from an estimated $10,000 to $80,000, depending on fleet size.
The association warns that without intervention, essential supply chains are at risk, and local economies face severe disruption. This “dire” situation is exacerbating existing economic pressures on an industry already operating with tight margins, the QTA added.
“The road freight industry is the backbone of our economy and the lifeline for communities, particularly in regional Queensland,” said QTA CEO Gary Mahon.
“When our trucks can’t move, essential goods don’t reach supermarkets, hospitals, hotels, and remote communities. This isn’t just about trucking businesses; it’s about the availability of food, medicine, and critical supplies for every Queenslander.”
The QTA highlighted that the far-reaching impacts extend beyond truck operators, affecting the operations of local businesses such as hotels, motels, roadhouses, convenience stores, and cafes that rely heavily on consistent deliveries.
“Interruptions to freight drastically limit their ability to restock essential items, jeopardising their operations and the livelihoods of those who depend on them.”
The association noted that during the February 2025 flood event, fleets were forced to apply cost levies, ultimately increasing the cost of living in affected areas—a scenario likely to repeat this season without support.
“The inability to recover costs during disruptions places immense strain on businesses, many of which are major employers in regional areas, providing hundreds of local jobs. Without assistance, some may be forced to close, leading to job losses and diminished competition in the market,” Mahon added.
“We are urging the government to recognise road freight as an essential service that underpins the very functioning of our communities and supports all other industries.”
Mahon said it is imperative that the government provides the necessary subsidy support to mitigate these financial losses, ensuring our industry can continue to operate effectively and deliver vital supplies during these emergencies.
“Supporting the trucking industry now will safeguard community resilience and contribute to the overall stability of our economy.”
The state government announced this week that eligible primary producers in the Winton Shire can now access disaster loans up to $250,000 and freight subsidies up to $5000, while Doomadgee and Etheridge Councils will be supported with their counter disaster operations and essential asset repairs.
Meanwhile, the Bureau of Meteorology has issued a moderate risk warning of a tropical cyclone developing near the northeast Queensland coast later Friday or Saturday.