The TWU helps get rid of 457 Visas in the trucking industry

Following a strong campaign by the TWU, the Federal Government has removed access to temporary visas for truck drivers.

From July 1, heavy truck drivers (except drivers including those working primarily at mining or construction sites, furniture removalists and delivery drivers) will no longer be able to access 457 visas.

The 457 Visa Program created by the Howard Government allowed foreign drivers to drive heavy vehicles on our roads.

TWU Branch Secretary Hughie Williams says, "The TWU has long opposed the use of 457 Visas in the trucking industry as it allowed inexperienced drivers on our roads."

Mr Williams says, "With the Country's heavy vehicle road toll climbing it's great to see the Rudd Government adopting preventative road safety measures such as keeping inexperienced truck drivers off our roads."