Steering success for future Aussie owner-drivers

The e-commerce industry is booming during the holiday season, pushing the logistics and transport industry to evolve and the demand for owner-drivers to rise. However, the road to success is not easy, and the goldmine of opportunities does come with significant risks.

Proper training and support are essential to thrive in this industry, and the Aussie owner-driver community is eager to provide both.

This blog will explore training programs designed to help owner-drivers obtain licenses and find success:

• Alltruck Driver Training, New South Wales
• Driver Delivery Program, Victoria
• QTA Driving Townsville’s Future Program
• Sutton Road Training Centre, New South Wales
• TAFE, Queensland

Alltruck Driver Training, New South Wales

With over 30 years in the industry, Alltruck Driving Training (ADT) is recognised by Transport of New South Wales (TNSW) as a provider of heavy vehicle training and assessments for those looking to get their vehicle driver’s license. ADT offers comprehensive programs to prepare future owner-drivers for Medium to Heavy Rigid vehicles by highlighting the importance of safety practices and regulatory compliance.

You can submit an enquiry on their website to get the full details of the program.

Driver Delivery Program, Victoria

For those seeking certification as heavy vehicle operators, the Driver Delivery Program (DDP) has an 8-day 2:1 training course worth considering. Developed to bridge the gap between training and employment, DDP takes on various operational aspects of delivery services, including route planning, customer interaction, and time management. The program also provides practical experience to ensure participants gain a solid foundation of driving skills so they’re better prepared to face whatever lies ahead.

Download their brochure to learn more. You can also check your eligibility for the program by filling out a short form.

Driving Townsville’s Future, Queensland

The Queensland Trucking Association (QTA) developed the project Driving Townsville Future Program (DTFP) to improve the local workforce of owner-drivers. The DTFP is an accelerated 10-day course offering entry-level training for drivers looking to get into the logistics and transport industry. This program includes practical and theoretical localised training to equip participants with skills to meet regional demands. DTFP also helps connect new drivers with other industry professionals, so there are plenty of networking opportunities.

The first intake was completed from 21 October to 1 November 2024. The next one is scheduled to run from February to March 2025, so if you’re interested, be sure to register as soon as you can.

Sutton Road Training Centre, New South Wales

If you’re looking for shorter courses, lasting from one to three days of on-site training, you may want to look into the Sutton Road Training Centre (SRTC). They provide nationally recognised accredited courses, such as the License to Transport Dangerous Goods by Road and Transport Emergency Recover Operations. They also offer helpful non-accredited programs, including the Heavy Vehicle Licensing and Load Restraint Awareness course. Although short, SRTC programs are designed to help drivers improve their skills, understand regulations, and uphold trucking business industry standards.

TAFE, Queensland

On the other hand, if you’re looking to invest in in-depth and more extended training, TAFE Queensland provides a range of courses that cater to all types of trade, including aspiring owner-drivers. Their Certificate III in Driving Operations is a two-year holistic program that includes on-the-job training in areas ranging from driving heavy vehicles to fatigue management. This program also covers essential skills such as communication and customer relations, preparing participants for challenges on and off the road, ultimately ensuring long-term success.

The program is only available on campus. You can learn more about what to expect and their requirements here.

Invest in the success of owner-drivers

The road ahead may have many twists and turns for the logistics and transport industry, but with proper training and a positive mindset, becoming a successful owner-driver in Australia is achievable. Access to support from programs like those featured in this blog can further boost your chances of success in the industry.

With trucking being an integral part of driving the economy forward, trucks and owner-drivers deserve proper security, so investing in insurance is just as important as investing in training programs.

Partner with Ryno Insurance to protect your trucking business. Our team of expert brokers is ready to assist you in exploring truck insurance options and ensure you’re fully equipped for the journey ahead. Contact Ryno Insurance today and submit a quote request!