Truck drivers who are asymptomatic can be tested but only in a private lab
Victoria has allowed asymptomatic testing of truck drivers in a concession to border anti-pandemic rules, particularly in South Australia.
But, in a Freight Victoria weekend update touching on the National Cabinet’s Freight Movement Code, the state government has emphasised it will not be involved.
“Victoria has not closed its borders, so is not required to enforce the code and will not be publicly testing freight operators who are asymptomatic,” the department says.
“Freight operators can take up the opportunity for private asymptomatic testing that can be organised through employers with private pathology laboratories.
“Drivers who are asymptomatic and have their tests through a private laboratory are not required to self-isolate while waiting for their results. Freight operators travelling within Metropolitan Melbourne still need to comply with Stage 4 directions, including having an appropriate Covid-safe plan and permitted worker permit.”
The move comes after weeks of clamouring for action, including from the Victorian Transport Association (VTA).
“The guidance came about after many meetings and discussions over the past week to ensure there is as much uniformity as possible across Australia when it comes to border crossing requirements,” VTA CEO Peter Anderson says.
“It means freight operators and employers of drivers can organise private asymptomatic Covid-19 testing at private pathology laboratories.
“Most importantly, drivers who are asymptomatic and have their tests through a private laboratory are not required to self-isolate while waiting for their result.”
SA BORDER ISSUES CONTINUE
The VTA says it has requested a list of the private laboratories from the Victorian government where testing is available.
The Department of Health advises the association that the test does not require a referral from a medical practitioner and that it will be bulk-billed through Medicare.
It is hoped the adjustment will see an end to delays at the South Australia border with Victoria.
“Asymptomatic testing for heavy vehicle drivers means operators in Victoria are now able to comply with requirements in South Australia for Covid testing every seven days as a condition of being granted a border crossing permit,” Anderson says.
“We welcome the Victorian Government aligning with other jurisdictions and we will continue to petition strongly to obtain common-sense solutions so that the essential movement of freight cross our borders, and the important work of our members, can continue with minimal disruption.”
In NSW, the transport ministry advises the following to truck drivers: “On arriving at the testing site, drivers will be required to identify themselves by providing name, driver licence number and contact details, including mobile number for test result notification.
“A sample will be taken and results will be provided back to drivers to their mobile number.
“Testing results are expected to take up to 48 hours.
“We know these are difficult times with a lot of change. We thank you for your feedback on the testing locations and for continuing to provide critical services for businesses and communities in NSW and across the country, and we aim to keep you working as safely and efficiently as possible.
“We will continue to work towards increasing the availability of freight specific testing in strategic locations in NSW.”
South Australian testing stations can be found here.
Those in NSW can be found here.
The Victorian permitted worker permit can be found here.
The full Victorian update can be found here.