Latest NTC Reform Implementation Monitoring Report Indicates Reforms Implemented
The National Transport Commission (NTC) just released its Reform Implementation Monitoring Report, (which monitors the implementation of agreed transport reforms by the Commonwealth, states and territories), revealing that the national reform packages agreed upon between 1 July 2013 and 1 July 2014 have been implemented, either fully or partially.
According to the report, all seven of the national reform packages have been implemented in an effort to improve our road systems. The NTC says its put a lot of effort into ensuring that solutions are not just discussed and then lost in the system but are actually being practically implemented.
In an article on trucking website Truckworld.com.au the acting CEO of the NTC Michelle Hendy was quoted as stating that the Reform Implementation Monitoring Report was an important way of making sure that when improvements to our nation’s transport networks are agreed upon by governments, the benefits start to manifest sooner rather than later. Some of the benefits the NTC hopes to accomplish include an increase in productivity in the transport sector nationally and safer road transport.
Hendy went on to explain:
“The NTC works hard to find practical improvements to Australia’s transport networks. We also work with governments to help them implement these reforms as quickly as possible,” Ms Hendy said.
“For example we work with our industry and government stakeholders to develop clear and practical reform implementation plans. In doing so our objective is to help to save lives and boost productivity across Australia’s transport sector.
“Through this report we can demonstrate to ministers, governments, industry and the Australian public that we are serious about achieving agreed transport reform outcomes. The report also allows us to identify and help manage any obstacles along the way.”
Source: http://www.truckworld.com.au
The post on TruckWorld goes on to highlight the seven reform areas included in the report. They are:
- Heavy Vehicle Regulatory Reform
- Heavy vehicle charges
- Rail Safety Regulation and Investigation Reform
- Australian Road Rules
- Australian Dangerous Goods Code
- National Ports Strategy
- Australian Vehicle Standards Rules
As part of the reforms, the Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) which was established in January 2013 is currently planning the delivery of a permit system that is more sustainable than current methods.
Another notable reform was the implementation of new heavy vehicle charges which were implemented from 1 July this year and in 2016, new charges will again be implemented based on the recommendations of the NTC.
The NTC also highlighted the consistency established in the Australian Road Rules (ARRs) with the tenth amendment package being developed by all states and territories at present. It is also important to note that all states and territories have adopted the Australian Vehicle Standards Rules (AVSRs) into their own laws under the new reforms.
Ms Hendy went on to explain:
“This report highlights where further attention is needed to ensure Australians get the full benefits of national reform,” Ms Hendy said.
Source: http://www.truckworld.com.au
Ms Hendy concluded by thanking each state, territory and the Commonwealth government on behalf of the NTC for providing their input into the report which she described as “important” to the transport industry.
