TRUCKIES UNDER THE PUMP AS FUEL PRICES BECOME TWO THIRDS OF OPERATING COSTS FOR SOME BUSINESS OWNERS
- Written by Times Media
As Australia’s fuel crisis continues, truck drivers across the nation are being hit hard despite the heavy vehicle road user charge being reduced to zero for the next three months. For some in the industry, fuel went up 81% in March resulting in fuel expenses making up two thirds of operating costs, up from one third before the crisis.
For Heather Jones, a truck driver and Founder of Pilbara Heavy Haulage Girls Group based in Karratha, Western Australia, the impact is immediate and relentless.
“I’m a small business owner, and our margins are already tight, around 2 to 5%. With fuel up about 81% since early March, savings are disappearing fast. At the start of this week, fuel jumped another 35 cents a litre. Fuel used to be about a third of our operating costs — now it’s closer to two-thirds. That’s a huge shift, and it’s putting real pressure on operators like me.”
Speaking on the stress, Jones added, “There are a lot more sleepless nights, I find myself checking the bank account every day instead of once a week, just trying to stay on top of it. You’re constantly doing the maths in your head while you’re driving, and when you’re alone in the cab for that long, it can really build up.”
Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds is a foundation that is looking to support truck drivers during this difficult time. Its research shows that 56% of truck drivers say so much time in the cab driving causes overthinking or mental strain, and 41% say they sometimes feel lonely or isolated during the workday. With the current fuel crisis still ongoing, the organisation warns that mental strain and isolation is likely to increase.
In response, the charity is releasing a special ‘Under the Pump’ edition of its award-winning podcast ‘How Ya Travellin’?’ - designed to reach drivers where they are most on the time: on the road.
The episode is hosted by actor, comedian and lifelong truck advocate Shane Jacobson, and features real conversations with truck drivers and psychologist Arthur Papagiannis about managing stress, staying steady under pressure and knowing when to reach out for help.
Speaking on the show, Jacobson said, “For truckies, the fuel crisis is hitting more than the wallet, that’s why myself and Healthy Heads in Trucks and Sheds are launching a special podcast episode of How Ya Travellin’?
“It's really important for truck drivers, if they are feeling under the pump and need support, to not put it off. You can visit the Healthy Heads website or download the Healthy Heads App for practical tools, tips and support options. Or reach out to one of the many wonderful mental health services and charities across Australia. I’ve always known how amazing our transport workers are, but this crisis has made sure that now Australia knows just how important they are too.”
The How Ya Travellin’? podcast is now available to stream on:
