30 Aug 2011

Trucking industry facing shortage of drivers

8:10 pm on 30 August 2011

The trucking industry is calling for action to address a looming shortage of drivers.

About 22,000 drivers are employed in the commercial road transport sector, with thousands more driving trucks for other jobs.

One thousand new drivers join the industry each year, but that just replaces those leaving.

In the next 30 years, the amount of freight trucked is expected to double.

A Road Transport Forum spokesperson says to get more drivers trained, there needs to be a move away from theory learning to a more hands-on focus.

Clive Litt says people who are failing currently are likely to benefit from a practical learning style.

Mr Litt says the Government can also play a part in attracting drivers from overseas by adding truck driving to the long-term skills shortage list.