Industry Issues, TWU

One in Two Transport Workers in the Industry is Unvaccinated

what most truck drivers are experiencing

According to a new survey looking at the failures in Australia’s pandemic response, one in two transport workers in the industry is unvaccinated. Large numbers of thoise involved in freight, public transport and distribution have not been vaccinated against COVID-19.

The survey from the Transport Workers Union of over 1,200 truckies, bus drivers, couriers, distribution workers and ride-share drivers found that only 14 per cent of respondents were fully vaccinated, while only 32 per cent had received one jab. Only two per cent were assisted by their employer to get their vaccination.

Over half of respondents had not received their first vaccination. Around one third identified limited availability or appointment times as key barriers, while many noted it was too difficult to book appointments in advance due to irregular work patters and unknown rosters. Confusing information and changing government health advice were other common reasons for the finding that one in two transport workers in the industry is unvaccinated.

Almost two thirds of truck driver respondents were unvaccinated, despite half working in COVID hot spots. 90 per cent of truckies have not been offered paid vaccination leave by their employers.

Around one third reported being told to self-isolate in their truck, while almost half said they’ve had to spend hours queueing for covid tests.

Confusing border pass information, testing requirements and exposure sites at truck and bus depots have also meant many transport workers have lost out on work.

“The results of this survey show in black and white the failures in Australia’s vaccination response,” said Michael Kaine, TWU National Secretary. “Without transport workers, the pandemic response would grind to a halt, but many are unvaccinated because the Federal Government failed to prioritise them, or ensure adequate support and leave provisions so workers can get vaccinated without losing pay.

“We’re constantly reminded the virus doesn’t move on its own, but transport workers are perhaps at the greatest risk of contracting and transmitting the virus. These workers should have been prioritised and support to get vaccinated from day one of the rollout.

“Transport workers are severely under the pump. They have met unprecedented demand over the last 18 months because they understand our communities rely on them. Wealthy retailers, manufactures and oil companies at the top of supply chains have raked in the profits by loading transport workers up with work, but have washed their hands of responsibility to ensure the workers they rely on can do their jobs safely.”

one in two transport workers in essential industries is unvaccinated

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