By Matthew Sims
Truck operators would receive up to $20,000 to replace older trucks with newer and low-emission models, as part of a $20 million package pledged if Labor wins the upcoming state election.
Announced on Thursday, October 27, the $20 million package would include a $15 million grants program to modernise the trucks which travel through the western suburbs.
The program would also allocate $5 million in grants towards local councils to seal more roads and reduce the amount of dust pollution.
Ports and Freight Minister and Williamstown MP Melissa Horne said the program was the result of a consultation with the local community and industry representatives.
“By modernising trucks, it will mean better air quality and more efficient movement for freight,” she said.
Maribyrnong Truck Action Group [MTAG] president Martin Wurt said the group welcomed the announcement, but said the group was looking forward to seeing more detail of what the program would deliver.
“Anything that gets older trucks off the road is definitely a step forward,” he said.
“We need clear kinds of targets from the initiative of what they are setting out to do.
“MTAG welcomes the carrot approach, but sometimes you need a stick approach as well.”
Mr Wurt said the group hoped the program would ensure all old trucks were scrapped.
The state government also released the Clean Air for All Victorians Strategy document, which has outlined cost-effective approaches to reduce pollution and increase air quality over the next 10 years across households, industry, business and transport.
In the 2022-23 state budget, the state government has committed $2.8 million towards establishing two quality improvement precincts in Melbourne’s inner west and outer west regions.
Footscray MP Katie Hall said these initiatives would help make Victoria a healthy and safe place for future generations.
“That includes taking practical steps to improve our air quality, so we can all enjoy fresh air now and into the future,” she said.
Details: environment.vic.gov.au/sustainability/clean-air-for-all-victorians
