The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is marking 19 November (International Men’s Day) by acknowledging the contribution men make across the heavy vehicle sector.
The Regulator said by doing so it is reinforcing the importance of wellbeing, connection and safety – both on and off the road.
NHVR Acting Executive Director On Road Operations, Steven Miller, said International Men’s Day was an opportunity to recognise the thousands of men who keep Australia’s road network moving and ensure essential goods reach every corner of the country.
“International Men’s Day is a moment to celebrate the commitment of heavy vehicle drivers who often work far from home under challenging conditions – the drivers, operators, planners, officers and so many others,” he said.
“They play a major part in ensuring the supply chain continues to meet demands and businesses continue running, ensuring they operate and drive safely on our roads.
“It’s also a timely moment to remind everyone in our industry that safety starts with people. Checking in on your mates, looking after each other and seeking support when you need it are just as important as vehicle maintenance or good rote planning.”
Miller also said promoting a healthy, safe and supportive culture among Australia’s heavy vehicle industry is a shared responsibility, particularly as ongoing driver shortages and an increased freight task are predicted to impact the sector.
“Australia’s road freight is expected to grow by 77 per cent between 2020 and 2050, so there’s never been a more crucial time to address the shortage and what that means for the economy,” he said.
“We know 1 in 3 drivers have reported living with multiple health conditions – with mental health battles among the most common.
“Knowing what resources are available is crucial for your well-being and for living a balanced life.”
The NHVR said it continues to support industry initiatives focused on mental health, fatigue awareness and safer workplaces.
Open Road, a health and wellbeing program previously funded under the NHVR’s Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative, took an integrated approach to physical and mental health and wellbeing to provide practical actions and advice for industry.
Almost 2,100 in-person engagement sessions were documented during the program, with referrals to specialist support services like mental health counselling remaining steady throughout the program.
Miller said initiatives such as these that need continued investment to deliver substantial road safety benefits for truck drivers and all road users.
“Through programs like these, we can continue to engage with safety-focused groups who are keen to improve areas like mental health and make Australia’s roads safer for everyone,” he said.
A valuable service for Australian tradies, truckies, farmers and blue-collar workers is This Is A Conversation Starter (TIACS), which is a professional, free text and call counselling service offering mental health support to Australia’s blue-collar community.
Text or call 0488846988, Mon-Fri 8am-10pm AEST. Visit here.
Visit the International Men’s Day website here.
