FREIGHT movement restrictions have eased slightly in Queensland with PCR testing requirements having been removed for freight workers and truck drivers.

The national cabinet decision enables freight and logistics operators to enter the state without providing evidence of a negative COVID-19 PCR test.

However, transport and main roads minister Mark Bailey said a new F (freight and logistics) border pass had been implemented for freight and truck drivers, which must still be completed to cross the border.

Other freight border entry requirements will remain, including proof of full vaccination.  

Mr Bailey thanked truckies and freight drivers for their co-operation and patience during the pandemic.

“Freight workers and truck drivers are absolutely essential to keeping food on the table and rebuilding our economy, and I cannot thank them enough for their efforts over the last two years,” he said.

“We understand it has been a challenging time for the industry and will continue to support the industry as we have done throughout the pandemic.

“This is one step which will make it easier for them to work in Queensland, and we will continue to adjust the protocols to reflect the health situation.”

The change aligns with a gradual progression toward smoother interstate transit for freight workers and truck drivers, after a particularly challenging transport situation last year.

Throughout most of 2021, freight workers and truckies faced eight different sets of rules on testing, varying from border to border. 

In August, the national Freight Movement Code received an update when the Australian government announced streamlined COVID-19 testing measures for freight operators.

Under the revised code, freight workers crossing any state or territory border were required to have a negative COVID-19 test result in a rolling seven-day period.

Following the update in August, some transport industry associations said the code did not go far enough, arguing that the road freight industry should be considered an essential service.

At the time, it was also requested that states and territories agree to a uniform set of rules relating to COVID tests for freight workers.

Despite the latest change to Queensland’s freight entry requirements, truck drivers and freight workers continue to face inconsistent rules and regulations across all domestic borders.