BY JIM MCILROY
BRISBANE — Long-distance truck owner-drivers have blockaded major transport depots on Brisbane's southside, and have forced major companies to sign up to improvements in payments and conditions, according to Transport Workers Union federal president Hughie Williams.
"The reason we started in Queensland is because this state has had the lowest rates", Williams told Green Left Weekly.
Several major companies have already guaranteed "sustainable, safe rates," he said. Another eight companies have not yet agreed, but if they refuse to sign up will face similar action.
The main demands of the owner-drivers have been for the increased freight rates, an industry code of conduct and a system of payment within 14 days.
The blockades have been successful with the support of other TWU members within the depots, who refused to cross the owner-drivers' picket lines.