New program promotes safety for livestock, drivers

The Federal Government has announced an additional $10 million for a program to improve safety at livestock saleyards across the country.

The Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program aims to reduce injuries among rural livestock drivers.

Australian Livestock and Rural Transporters Association executive director Philip Halton said he was keen to work with councils and businesses to help them make funding submissions to the government.

‘‘It is pleasing to think we can improve safety — these drivers have a very hard job,’’ Mr Halton said.

‘‘The $10 million will have a measurable impact and will make a marked improvement in safety.’’

Mr Halton said ALRTA had approached the government to request the increased funding and was now negotiating to lengthen the time available for submissions.

The increase could provide funding for upgrades to Boyanup saleyards, managed by the WA Livestock Saleman’s Association, which were going to be selffunded after the State Government attached conditions to a potential $2.2 million left over from the sale of Midland saleyards.

WALSA chairman Leon Giglia said the saleyard had recently been upgraded but improvements could still be made, and if eligible, WALSA would consider applying for some of the funding.

‘‘The trucks have gotten larger and longer and we need to be expanding the area they go in,’’ Mr Giglia said.

Mr Giglia said continual maintenance and improvements would take longer without government funding.