Politicians meet with Daimler Future Leaders

Daimler Future Leaders participants have met with Government and Opposition in Canberra as part of meetings to lobby members of parliament on delivering programs for driver training and attraction for the road transport sector.

After a formal lunch with Senator Jim Molan, the Daimler Future Leaders sat in on Senate Question Time and discussed key industry issues such as mandating autonomous emergency braking for all new heavy vehicles; finding solutions to liquid fuel emergency planning; and proposed upgrades to truck driver licensing as part of an industry-wide effort to tackle the driver shortage.

Research indicates a reasonable increase in licensing requirements would make trucking more attractive as a skilled occupation.

Australian Trucking Association Chair Geoff Crouch said the issues were of vital importance to every member of the Australian trucking industry.

“Our industry is constantly changing and it’s important we equip the next generation of leaders with the skills and knowledge they need to ensure the future of the trucking industry remains sustainable and viable,” he said.

As part of the Daimler New Leaders Forum, participants will each undertake a leadership project focused on an industry issue.

Potential solutions to the key items discussed in the lobbying meetings will be presented at Trucking Australia 2019.

Development workshops are being run by Dr Andrew Banfield, Head of School of Politics and International Relations at the Australian National University, Anne Fulwood, professional speaker, and Rod Hattch Wisdom Learning CEO.

“Daimler is thrilled to be part of such an invaluable program that allows participants to work so closely with decision-makers and gain valuable industry insight from expert mentors,” said Daniel Whitehead, Daimler Truck and Bus Australia President and CEO.

(Image: Daniel Whitehead, Daimler Truck and Bus).