Regional freight and logistics operators play an indispensable role in Victoria’s economy and the broader national supply chain.
Every day, thousands of trucks move agricultural produce, manufactured goods, fuel, construction materials and consumer products between regional communities, ports, distribution centres and metropolitan markets.
Their work connects producers with customers, supports businesses of every size and helps keep Australia’s economy functioning efficiently.
That reality was front and centre during the Victorian Transport Association’s recent Regional Forums in Horsham, Wodonga and Sale, where operators, regulators and industry stakeholders came together to discuss road safety, compliance, workforce challenges and the future of regional freight.
The forums highlighted not only the vital role regional transport businesses play, but also the pressing need for governments to continue investing in the infrastructure and policy settings that allow these businesses to operate safely and productively.
Regional Victoria is home to some of Australia’s most productive agricultural and industrial regions. From the grain fields of the Wimmera to the manufacturing centres of the North East, to the agricultural and energy sectors of Gippsland, freight operators are responsible for connecting producers to domestic and international markets.
Their role extends far beyond simply moving goods. They support local jobs, sustain regional communities and help ensure consumers across the country have access to the products they rely on every day.
Yet regional operators face unique challenges. Longer transport distances, ageing road networks, increasing compliance requirements, workforce shortages and growing traffic volumes all place pressure on businesses that are already operating in highly competitive environments.
One of the clearest messages from the forums was the importance of continued investment in freight infrastructure. Well-maintained roads, safer intersections, upgraded bridges, additional overtaking lanes and fit-for-purpose heavy vehicle rest areas are not simply transport priorities, they are economic necessities.
Infrastructure that improves freight efficiency reduces costs for businesses, enhances supply chain reliability and delivers benefits across the broader economy.
Safety must remain at the centre of this investment. Regional freight operators travel hundreds of thousands of kilometres each year, often on roads shared with local communities, tourists and agricultural machinery.
Every improvement in road design, freight route planning and heavy vehicle safety technology contributes to safer outcomes for drivers and all road users.
Productivity is equally important. As demand on supply chains continues to grow, operators need access to modern regulatory frameworks and technology that support efficient freight movement.
The forums provided important updates on upcoming changes to the Heavy Vehicle National Law, helping operators understand future obligations while ensuring regulations continue to support safe and productive outcomes.
The discussions also highlighted the growing role of telematics, data and emerging technologies in helping operators manage compliance, improve fleet performance and strengthen safety outcomes.
Importantly, the success of the regional forums reflected the value of genuine collaboration between industry and government.
We were pleased to bring together representatives from the Department of Transport and Planning, Victoria Police, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator, the Transport Accident Commission, WorkSafe Victoria and WHG Telematics, alongside local operators and industry leaders.
Their participation provided valuable insights and demonstrated a shared commitment to improving safety, compliance and productivity outcomes for regional transport businesses.
The freight industry does not ask for special treatment. It asks for practical policies, sensible regulation and infrastructure investment that recognises the essential service it provides.
Supporting regional freight operators means supporting farmers, manufacturers, retailers and consumers.
It means supporting regional jobs and economic growth. Most importantly, it means recognising that a strong regional freight sector is fundamental to a strong Victorian and national economy.
As the conversations in Horsham, Wodonga and Sale demonstrated, regional operators are ready to meet the challenges of the future.
Governments and policymakers must now ensure they have the tools, infrastructure and support needed to keep Australia moving safely and efficiently. The economic prosperity of our regions, and the nation, depends on it.
- Peter Anderson is the CEO of the Victorian Transport Association.