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On this important national day, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is asking all members of industry, R U OK?
Marked on the second Thursday in September every year, R U OK? Day is an annual campaign dedicated to reminding Australians to check in with their friends, family, and colleagues.
The event encourages meaningful conversations and aims to reduce loneliness and promote community support and connection.
NHVR On Roads Executive Director Brett Patterson said it was important for the heavy vehicle industry to prioritise mental wellbeing all year round.
“Working in the trucking industry can be isolating, with drivers often spending many hours alone on the road to meet delivery deadlines,” Mr Patterson said.
“A yearly acknowledgment like R U OK? Day reminds us of the incredible difference just a simple and genuine conversation can make.
“This day is about recognising that anyone can ask the question, and a friendly chat can help when someone is struggling.”
Principal Safety and Compliance Officer Daniel Wunsch is a registered member of the Mental Health First Aid network in the NHVR, which aims to normalise mental health conversations and equip staff with the skills to support their colleagues.
“At our workplace in Wetherill Park, we have three team members trained to provide peer-to-peer support, which means having the tools to know what to do,” Mr Wunsch said.
“We’re here to listen without judgement, provide encouragement to get professional support, and help reduce the stigma.
“For me, R U OK? Day is every day and every person’s mental health is important.
“You just have to ask the question, and there are a lot of instances where people are willing to open up.”
The NHVR also provides mental health awareness through the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI) program, supported by the Australian Government.
Programs funded through HVSI, such as the recent Open Road Truck Driver Health and Wellbeing Program delivered by the Tasmanian Transport Association, may address mental health challenges experienced by industry.
For more information about relevant HVSI programs, including those targeted to mental wellbeing, visit www.nhvr.gov.au/hvsi
For further resources on R U OK? Day, visit www.ruok.org.au