Extra steps questioned for big money moves
An inquiry will be held into corporate pressure and safety issues for the cash-in-transit sector.
The Road Safety Remuneration Tribunal (RSRT) will despatch two authorities to investigate claims of intense pressure from banks and retailers.
The investigation is in response to concerns raised by the Transport Workers’ Union, which said cash-in-transit workers had extra risks imposed on their safety and security.
Cash-in-transit covers all aspects of the transport of cash, securities, financial instruments, bullion, precious goods and materials.
RSRT figures Steve Hutchins and Paul Ryan have been tasked with the inquiry and asked to provide both interim and final reports with their findings and recommendations.
Hutchins, a former federal Labor senator, has previously been posted as president of the Transport Workers Union (TWU).
Paul Ryan is an industrial relations specialist with the Australian Road Transport Industrial Organisation (ARTIO).
RSRT president Jennifer Acton says the inquiry may lead to a new road safety remuneration order, which would stipulate minimum rates and payment conditions for employee and contractor drivers, conditions covering loading and unloading practices and measures to remove incentives or pressures that may encourage unsafe work practices.
An inquiry into cash-in-transit issues was conducted in NSW between 1995 and 1997, and its results will be considered as part of the RSRT's new work.
“It is also understood that a uniform code of practice for safety and security standards in the Cash in Transit industry, and its enforcement, is currently being considered by interested persons,” Acton's statement reads.
“These matters, amongst others, are expected to form part of the Tribunal's inquiry into the sectors in the Cash in Transit industry.”
Any interested industry parties can lodge submissions to the inquiry by August 25.
Hearings will be held in Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide, Perth and Darwin from September 1 and October 13 for oral submissions.
The RSRT says anyone wishing to speak at the hearings needs to make themselves known by August 28.