Fair pay should never be negotiable. Yet many drivers in Australia’s truck relocation industry are still struggling to receive the wages they are legally owed.
Since 1 July 2018, the truck relocation industry has been covered by the Road Transport and Distribution Award. This change followed a Fair Work Commission ruling that included vehicle relocation drivers in the award framework. The Transport Workers’ Union successfully pushed for specific wording to ensure drivers moving new or used vehicles from one place to another are recognised and protected.
Ongoing Underpayment Concerns in the Industry
According to Matt Whitnall, Managing Director of Truck Movers Australia, the business still hears from drivers who are not receiving correct pay. Over the years, many drivers have provided evidence that some operators raised their customers’ rates to meet award requirements but did not pass those legal entitlements on to their workers.
Some drivers report being paid under an incorrect award, which results in lower hourly rates. Others state they are not compensated for return travel time, even though that travel can take hours and constitutes a significant part of the workday. Whitnall explains that customers often pay rates according to the correct award, while some operators withhold proper wages and keep the difference.
The most affected drivers tend to be experienced, older individuals who depend on this income. Some say their inquiries about proper pay have been ignored or dismissed by employers.
Whitnall notes that the business discovers questionable practices when drivers apply for positions and voluntarily share their pay records during the recruitment process. This direct insight has confirmed that non-compliance is more common than many realise.
Calls for Practical Reform and Stronger Enforcement
Over the years, Truck Movers Australia has raised these issues with the Transport Workers’ Union and the Fair Work Ombudsman. While discussions have taken place, Whitnall believes the enforcement measures could be improved.
He suggests identifying operators who fail to provide payslips, working with the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator when repeated fatigue breaches occur, and consulting compliant businesses to help uncover wage theft more effectively. In his view, better coordination between regulators and responsible operators would lead to quicker and fairer outcomes.
Beyond advocacy, the company has taken steps to assist drivers. As a founding supporter of resources that educate truck relocation drivers about their legal rights, it has helped improve access to clear information on pay rates and allowances. Since then, many drivers have come forward with proof of systematic underpayment.
Common issues include unpaid overtime after 7.6 hours, failure to pay Saturday and Sunday penalty rates, missing night shift allowances, and unpaid return travel time when flying or travelling between assignments. All of these entitlements have been part of the award for several years.
Whitnall believes many drivers simply don’t realise how easy it is to pursue back pay claims.
The company provides reliable truck relocation services, moving new and used trucks safely between dealerships, auction houses, fleet depots, and customer sites. Its services include fleet transfers, contract relocation work, auction vehicle movements, and customised logistics solutions built to meet strict compliance standards. A strong focus on safety, fatigue management, and lawful employment practices underpins every job.
By ensuring drivers are paid correctly under the Road Transport and Distribution Award, the business aims to create a more level playing field in the sector. Fair wages lead to safer operations, improved morale, and long-term sustainability for the entire industry.
Whitnall emphasises there is no valid reason for ignoring legally established pay rates. Compliance is neither complicated nor optional. Transparency benefits drivers, customers, and reputable operators alike.
Drivers who think they are being underpaid are encouraged to reach out to their union representative or contact the Fair Work Ombudsman. Acting early can make a real difference.
Confidential Support Is Available
Truck Movers Australia is also open to confidential discussions with drivers who want clarity about their entitlements. By supporting fair pay and ethical practices, the company continues to push for a safer, more transparent, and sustainable truck relocation industry throughout Australia.
