Federal MP Scott Buchholz says changes to COVID-19 requirements for truck drivers will help alleviate local supply chain issues.
Truck drivers who have previously been deemed a close contact, providing they are non-symptomatic and return a negative test, can leave isolation, return to work behind the wheel and keep supplies moving.
Federal Member for Wright Scott Buchholz, who is the Assistant Minister for Transport says the decision helps relieve pressure on the transport industry’s workforce.
The decision has also received support from the Australian transport, freight and logistics sector.
It comes as Woolworths stores across Logan and the Scenic Rim reinstated limits on products, following recent food and grocery supply chain constraints.
KFC stores across Logan and the Scenic Rim have also been impacted by product availability, due to supply chain issues.
Mr Buchholz says the changes were the result of Government working with and listening to the needs of industry.
“Throughout this pandemic we have worked closely with the transport and freight industry, including peak bodies and the Federal Government has acted swiftly and decisively.
“We cannot keep the economy functioning and Australia moving, without a strong transport, freight and logistics sector and the workforce.
“These changes will help address some of the pressures industry has been telling us about and will enable critical workers to get back to work, we are encouraged by the increase in people returning to work from the previous changes made to close contact classifications.
“I encourage all in the industry, as I know the peak bodies have done, to get vaccinated if they are not already and to book in for their booster shot when they become eligible.
“We are aware other pressures exist but we are optimistic about the changes being made and we will keep working with industry and working to get the balance right.”
To keep up to date with the latest COVID-19 requirements, visit https://www.health.qld.gov.au
