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This International Women’s Day, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is recognising the significant contribution women make to Australia’s transport and logistics sector.
NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto OAM said women are an integral part of the heavy vehicle industry, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations.
“It’s fantastic to see more women behind the wheel, with their dedication, skill and unwavering commitment to driving the industry forward pivotal in creating a stronger workforce,” Mr Petroccitto said.
“While road transport has traditionally been a male-dominated industry, this is changing as we see an increase in the number of females driving.
“We expect the number of female truck drivers to continue to rise, as the projected growth of the heavy vehicle industry is over 1 per cent by 2026, equating to around 2000 additional jobs.”
Mr Petroccitto said the NHVR acknowledged the challenges women still face in the trucking industry, with the regulator committed to supporting an inclusive environment.
“The NHVR recognises the many outstanding accomplishments of women in trucking and will continue advocating for gender equality in the workforce,” he said.
“In line with this year’s International Women’s Day theme, Inspire Inclusion, we want to acknowledge all women working in the transport and logistics industry - from drivers to executives - who are challenging gender stereotypes and promoting inclusivity.
“Through our Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative, the NHVR is proud to support initiatives such as the Women in Trucking Association’s (WiTA) Foot in Door program.
“As a female heavy vehicle driver training and recruitment initiative, this program is removing barriers and providing employment opportunities for women seeking to establish a career as a truckie.”
WiTA CEO Lyndal Denny said through partnership with the NHVR and through the Foot in Door program, the association is working to smash the glass ‘bull bar’.
“Female truckies as wives, partners and primary caregivers, face daily challenges managing work and family life from behind the wheel, often they are unseen and unheard in the workplace,” Ms Denny said.
“Many are taken for granted or overlooked for the enormous sacrifices they make to earn a living and support their families.
“WiTA was established to empower these women, to capture their authenticity, strength and diversity and to shine a light on the work being done out there on the nation’s roads in the hope that their inspiring stories will encourage more Australian women to consider trucking as the viable and rewarding career path it is.
“In the spirit of continuing to honour and recognise these exceptional women, WiTA wishes every woman a happy International Women’s Day.”
Find further information on the Foot in Door program here