TRANSPORT and logistics companies have been at the mercy of ever-changing COVID-19 restrictions across state lines, and continue to call for help.

They are pleading for better access to COVID-19 testing, to keep Australia’s fleets on our highways.

Member for Mildura Ali Cupper said there is plenty of room for improvement.

“Truck drivers have endured more COVID-19 tests than almost every other industry since the start of the pandemic, and yet there’s been little done to make the process easier for them,” Ms Cupper said.

“More freight friendly sites would keep Australia moving, and they’re desperately needed on key rural and regional freight corridors.”

A freight friendly testing site provides easy access to COVID-19 testing for heavy vehicle operators in a suitable location.

While we have three freight friendly testing sites in Victoria, none are operating around the clock.

There is also a COVID-19 testing station at the VIC/SA border at Yamba, where truck parking is available, but testing isn’t provided beyond 4pm each day.

“New South Wales for instance has seven sites that operate 24 hours a day on major freight routes, and another is opening up this coming Monday,” Ms Cupper said.

“Round the clock options simply aren’t available in Victoria.

“Drivers instead have to navigate their way into community testing sites in town, where there’s little to no truck friendly parking available.”

Ms Cupper said having 24/7 sites along freight corridors in Victoria would have numerous benefits.

“Not every truck driver has the time or ability to attend community COVID-19 testing clinics,” Ms Cupper said.

“Given the frequency of their testing, having dedicated sites available where they don’t need to fret about parking or opening hours would make the world of difference.

“No truck driver wants to put their families or communities at risk, so the easier and safer we can make the testing process for the industry, the better.”