Farm Insurance Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Austroads Survey Uncovers Safety Concerns with Overseas Licensed Heavy Vehicle Drivers

Implications for Policy and Road Safety in Australia

Austroads Survey Uncovers Safety Concerns with Overseas Licensed Heavy Vehicle Drivers?w=400
A recent survey conducted by Austroads has brought to light significant safety concerns regarding overseas licensed heavy vehicle drivers operating in Australia.
With over 1,900 respondents, the survey aims to inform potential policy changes to enhance road safety and driver competency.

Key findings from the survey include:

  • 85% of respondents believe individuals should not be permitted to drive heavy vehicles on an overseas licence.
  • 36% advocate for a mandatory period holding an Australian car licence before obtaining a heavy vehicle licence.
  • 50% support allowing individuals who meet Australian learning and assessment requirements to transfer from an overseas licence to a heavy vehicle licence.

Respondents highlighted concerns such as differing road safety cultures, unfamiliarity with Australian road rules, and potential language barriers affecting communication and comprehension of regulations.

These insights underscore the need for stringent policies to ensure that all heavy vehicle drivers possess adequate knowledge and skills to operate safely on Australian roads. Potential measures may include mandatory training programs, assessments tailored to Australian conditions, and a probationary period for overseas licensed drivers.

For transport business owners and fleet managers, these developments may lead to changes in hiring practices and training requirements. Staying informed about policy changes and investing in comprehensive training programs will be essential to maintain compliance and ensure the safety of operations.

As Austroads collaborates with state and territory authorities to assess and implement these findings, the transport industry must prepare for potential legislative changes aimed at enhancing road safety and driver competency.

Published:Monday, 13th Oct 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

NSW and SA Initiate Trials for Increased Mass Limits on Zero-Emissions Trucks
NSW and SA Initiate Trials for Increased Mass Limits on Zero-Emissions Trucks
13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori
In a significant move towards sustainable transport, New South Wales (NSW) and South Australia (SA) have commenced trials permitting higher mass limits for zero-emissions trucks. This initiative aims to encourage the adoption of environmentally friendly heavy vehicles by addressing existing regulatory constraints. - read more
Austroads Survey Uncovers Safety Concerns with Overseas Licensed Heavy Vehicle Drivers
Austroads Survey Uncovers Safety Concerns with Overseas Licensed Heavy Vehicle Drivers
13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori
A recent survey conducted by Austroads has brought to light significant safety concerns regarding overseas licensed heavy vehicle drivers operating in Australia. With over 1,900 respondents, the survey aims to inform potential policy changes to enhance road safety and driver competency. - read more
ICA Advocates for Government Reforms to Mitigate Rising Motor Insurance Premiums
ICA Advocates for Government Reforms to Mitigate Rising Motor Insurance Premiums
13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has issued a call for urgent government action to address the escalating costs of motor insurance premiums. Highlighting a 42% increase in comprehensive motor insurance premiums since 2019, the ICA attributes this surge to various systemic cost drivers. - read more
Suncorp's Earnings Surge and Share Buyback Announcement
Suncorp's Earnings Surge and Share Buyback Announcement
13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori
Suncorp, a prominent Australian insurer, has reported an 8% increase in full-year cash earnings, reaching A$1.49 billion for the year ending June 30, 2025. This performance exceeded analyst expectations and underscores the company's robust financial health. - read more
ASIC's Legal Action Against RACQ Insurance: What You Need to Know
ASIC's Legal Action Against RACQ Insurance: What You Need to Know
13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has commenced Federal Court proceedings against RACQ Insurance, alleging that the insurer misled more than 570,000 customers through deceptive premium comparison figures in renewal notices issued between September 2019 and December 2024. - read more
NTI Report Highlights Human Error as Primary Cause of Major Truck Crashes
NTI Report Highlights Human Error as Primary Cause of Major Truck Crashes
12 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori
According to the latest report from the National Truck Accident Research Centre (NTARC), human error remains the predominant cause of major truck crashes in Australia. The study, supported by National Transport Insurance (NTI), reveals that inattention and distraction are leading contributors to these incidents, accounting for nearly one-third of all human factor-related crashes. - read more
Queensland Aligns Heavy Vehicle Compliance with National Regulator
Queensland Aligns Heavy Vehicle Compliance with National Regulator
12 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori
In a significant move towards regulatory consistency, Queensland has transferred its heavy vehicle compliance responsibilities to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR). This transition aligns Queensland with New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, and the Australian Capital Territory, all of which have already integrated their heavy vehicle regulations under the NHVR's oversight. - read more
QBE Exceeds Profit Expectations with Strong Premium Growth
QBE Exceeds Profit Expectations with Strong Premium Growth
12 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori
Australian insurer QBE has reported a significant increase in net profit for the first half of fiscal 2025, reaching $997 million. This figure surpasses both the previous year's profit of $777 million and market estimates of $839.39 million. The impressive performance is attributed to robust premium growth in North America and international markets, coupled with lower-than-expected claims. - read more
Suncorp's Profit Rises by 8%, Plans A$400 Million Share Buyback
Suncorp's Profit Rises by 8%, Plans A$400 Million Share Buyback
12 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori
Suncorp, a leading Australian insurer, has reported an 8% increase in full-year cash earnings, reaching A$1.49 billion for the year ending June 30. This performance surpasses analyst expectations of A$1.47 billion and is attributed to improved underlying insurance margins and a 16% increase in net investment returns, totaling A$766 million. - read more
Allianz Australia Penalised for Misleading Travel Insurance Information
Allianz Australia Penalised for Misleading Travel Insurance Information
11 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori
In a significant ruling, Allianz Australia Insurance and its subsidiary, AWP Australia, have been fined a total of $16.8 million for providing misleading information about their travel insurance products. The Supreme Court of New South Wales found that between 2016 and 2018, the companies misrepresented the extent of coverage available to consumers, leading to potential misunderstandings about policy benefits. - read more


Farm Insurance Articles

The Modern Farmer's Checklist for Assessing Farm Equipment Insurance Needs
The Modern Farmer's Checklist for Assessing Farm Equipment Insurance Needs
As the backbone of Australian agriculture, farm equipment plays an essential role in day-to-day operations across our expansive and diverse landscapes. From the vast wheat belts to the tropical fruit farms, machinery ensures efficiency and productivity in the face of constant challenges. But with reliance on such equipment comes significant risk—the financial burden of damage or loss can be devastating to a farmer's livelihood. - read more
5 Essential Farm Insurance Policies Every Australian Farmer Needs
5 Essential Farm Insurance Policies Every Australian Farmer Needs
Farming in Australia is not just a job, it's a way of life. However, it’s also a livelihood that comes with its own unique set of risks. From unexpected weather events to machinery breakdowns, the life of an Australian farmer is fraught with uncertainties. - read more
Risk Management and Insurance Options for Farmers
Risk Management and Insurance Options for Farmers
Risk management is the practice of identifying, assessing, and prioritizing risks followed by coordinated efforts to minimize, monitor, and control the probability or impact of unfortunate events. In farming, risk management involves various strategies to protect the financial health and operational stability of the farm. - read more
How to Protect Your Harvest: Tips for Choosing the Right Crop Insurance
How to Protect Your Harvest: Tips for Choosing the Right Crop Insurance
Farming, at its core, is an enterprise fraught with uncertainty. Weather calamities, pests, diseases, and fluctuating market conditions can all impact the output and quality of produce. This is where crop insurance proves its worth, serving as a safety net for farmers against the myriad risks they face each season. - read more
Insurance for Hobby Farms: Finding the Right Coverage
Insurance for Hobby Farms: Finding the Right Coverage
Hobby farming has become increasingly popular in Australia, with many individuals and families embracing the joys of growing their own produce, raising livestock, and enjoying a rural lifestyle. Whether it's a small vegetable garden, a few chickens, or a larger mixed farming operation, hobby farms offer both relaxation and a connection to nature. - read more
Farm Liability Insurance Costs vs. Benefits: Is It Worth It?
Farm Liability Insurance Costs vs. Benefits: Is It Worth It?
Farm liability insurance is a type of coverage that protects farmers from financial losses due to legal claims and lawsuits. This insurance is crucial for safeguarding your farm against various liabilities that may arise from farm operations. - read more
Building Resilience Against Natural Disasters: Practical Steps for Aussie Farmers
Building Resilience Against Natural Disasters: Practical Steps for Aussie Farmers
Australian farmers face an array of natural disasters that can threaten livelihoods and disrupt the delicate balance of agricultural ecosystems. From devastating bushfires and droughts to powerful storms and floods, these catastrophic events pose serious risks to the farming community. Understanding and preparing for these forces is not just about survival; it's about building a sustainable future for farms across the continent. - read more
Protecting Your Herd: The Aussie Farmer's Guide to Livestock Insurance
Protecting Your Herd: The Aussie Farmer's Guide to Livestock Insurance
For Australian farmers, livestock is more than just a vital asset; it's the heartbeat of their livelihood. In a land where the sunburnt plains are as relentless as they are beautiful, protecting your herd isn't just a duty; it's a necessity. That's where livestock insurance comes into play—a shield against the unpredictability of Mother Nature. - read more
Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Insuring Your Farm Equipment
Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Insuring Your Farm Equipment
In the world of agriculture, having the right insurance coverage is essential. Farming is a high-risk industry that deals with unpredictable elements, and insuring your farm equipment can safeguard your livelihood. - read more
How to Safeguard Your Farm: A Guide for Australian Farmers
How to Safeguard Your Farm: A Guide for Australian Farmers
Farming is inherently risky. With factors like weather, pests, and market fluctuations affecting crops, it's crucial to manage these risks effectively. - read more


Need a Quote?
Start your free farm insurance quote comparison here.
Farm Type:
Postcode:
All quotes are provided free and without obligation. We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Insurance Deductible:
That part of an insurance claim that must be paid by an insured person before the the balance is paid by the insurer.