Road trains are now permitted to carry heavier loads to regional Western Australia, delivering on one of the State Government’s Fuel Security Roundtable’s key outcomes.
From today, 27.5m and 36.5m road trains will be permitted to transport up to an additional 10 tonnes per load if they are carrying petrol, diesel and/or fertiliser to certain priority regions.
The decision was made by the Government’s Fuel Industry Operations Group, formed in response to concerns raised about fuel security amid conflict in the Middle East.
“In times of global uncertainty, it’s more important than ever for government to work with industry and the community on practical solutions,” said Transport Minister, Rita Saffioti.
“This is a significant decision, which will enable the delivery of more petrol, diesel, and fertiliser to regional Western Australians.
“Working with industry, we will prioritise key regional areas to support the community and keep our economy strong through any global shocks.”
Under the plan, road trains will be able to bring more petrol, diesel, and fertiliser to key regions such as the Goldfields, the South West, Great Southern and the Wheatbelt.
To help with distribution, industry will work with the government and fuel companies to triage priority areas for more stock.
The Government said industry will provide the location of these depots to Main Roads who will adjust existing permits on a case-by-case basis to allow for the new temporary conditions.
These new permit conditions will be rolled out progressively from Monday as required travel routes are identified.
“By helping bring critical fuel supplies to regional Western Australia, our government is already making considerable progress on its seven-point plan to address fuel security concerns,” said Energy and Decarbonisation Minister, Amber-Jade Sanderson.
“WA has shown before that it can confront global challenges, and through the Fuel Industry Operations Group, we will continue to keep our State safe and strong.”
