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28 July 2025
Australia’s road transport industry, freight and passenger, is facing a critical shortage of heavy vehicle (HV) drivers. This shortage has serious consequences for the economy, communities, and supply chains. A coordinated national response from industry and government is essential to tackle this issue effectively.
Truck driving is currently the 9th most common occupation in Australia. With road freight volumes expected to grow by 11.5% over the next five years, the demand for skilled drivers will only increase.
The Transport and Logistics Industry 2025 Workforce Plan highlights the wide-reaching impacts of the HV driver shortage, including delays in goods distribution, increased safety risks, and disruptions to passenger transport services. Regional areas are especially affected, as they rely heavily on road transport for essential goods and services.
Industry associations and employers continue to raise concerns about the shortage during ISA consultations. In 2024, roundtables led by the Australian Trucking Association and Senator Glenn Sterle focused on strategies to attract, retain, and develop the HV driver workforce.
This project will develop a National Heavy Vehicle Driver Action Plan that outlines the current state of the industry, the impacts of the driver shortage, and the initiatives underway to address it. The plan will also recommend future actions for ISA, identify areas needing government or industry support, and provide links to further resources.
The Action Plan will unite industry efforts to:
- Create a clear, coordinated resource that outlines actions, responsibilities, and avoids duplication
- Build consensus on areas needing changes in government policy, new initiatives, or additional support
- Establish a program of work for ISA and stakeholders that complements existing industry efforts and highlights barriers needing industry or government intervention
Industry Skills Australia (ISA) will engage with stakeholders throughout the project, ensuring all feedback is considered to deliver outcomes that meet industry needs.
A National HV Driver Action Plan Steering Committee, made up of key industry representatives, will guide the development of the Action Plan.
The Action Plan is expected to be completed by 31 January 2026.
