Transport Industry Condemns ‘Sham Contracting’ Practices
The trucking industry in Western Australia is grappling with the serious issue of “sham contracting.” This term refers to the misuse of designated rest bays along highways, which are intended to help manage driver fatigue and enhance road safety. Allegations have surfaced that trucking companies are turning these rest bays into makeshift depots, undermining their primary purpose.
Misuse of Roadside Parking Bays
Industry representatives, including the Western Roads Federation, contend that many trucking companies exploit these parking bays. Reports indicate that some companies are conducting roadside repairs and improperly disposing of hazardous materials like oil and tires. Instances of unhitched trailers being left abandoned for weeks have also been recorded, particularly in the Goldfields and Midwest regions of WA.
Calls for Action
- Western Roads Federation and the Transport Workers’ Union are advocating for a multi-agency taskforce.
- They emphasize the need for coordinated efforts to address the misuse of rest areas effectively.
Cam Dumesny, the chief executive of the Western Roads Federation, highlighted that the trucking industry operates on tight margins, anywhere from 3 to 5 percent. To cut costs, some operators are using rest areas as depots, avoiding legal compliance and contributing to environmental hazards.
Regulatory Challenges
Main Roads WA has responded to these concerns, stating that it lacks enforcement powers to regulate how long vehicles can remain in these bays. The agency is collaborating with local governments and WA Police to tackle the problem, but many industry stakeholders believe a more unified approach is necessary.
Industry Concerns
Jayson Penn, a heavy haulage contractor from West Kalgoorlie, criticizes the authorities for ignoring the issue. He fears for the safety of drivers in an increasingly hazardous working environment. Penn has conducted inspections revealing many unregistered trailers, raising questions about insurance coverage and safety.
Many drivers express frustration at the lack of available parking. Oversized loads and fatigue breaks leave truckers struggling to find safe places to rest, as bays in the vicinity are often occupied by trucks misusing the spaces. Warren Blow, a truck driver from Geraldton, echoed these concerns, noting that the bays are often filled with vehicles using them for non-compliant purposes.
Conclusion
The transport industry in WA is calling for urgent action to combat the misuse of roadside parking bays, also termed “sham contracting.” With rising safety concerns and operational challenges, the necessity for regulatory reform and a collaborative taskforce is more pressing than ever.
