Safer roads for North West truckies

Labor will commit $14 million to improve safety for heavy vehicle users in the Pilbara following lobbying from the transport industry. Works will commence on upgrades across 14 priority locations in country WA, including Newman, Marble Bar Road, Auski, Redmont, Whim Creek, Karijini Drive and Bell Street in the North West. Upgrades come as part of a $50 million State and Commonwealth Government commitment under the freight vehicle productivity improvements program. Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said it was vital workers had access to amenities that increased safety. “Freight drivers provide an essential service and it’s important we have the necessary amenities and facilities available in regional WA that these drivers need,” she said. “We’ve worked with the transport industry to finalise 14 high priority locations across regional WA that will receive $14 million of urgent upgrades with works to commence shortly. “I’d like to thank the Commonwealth for their financial contribution and the transport industry for all their work on the program.” Transport Workers Union WA, Livestock, Rural Transport Association of WA and Western Roads Federation determined the locations following consultations.