Skip to content
Government ACT, Transport Automotive

ACT’s traffic controller call will make roads safer: CFMEU

CFMEU < 1 min read

The CFMEU has declared the ACT Government’s decision to directly employ more traffic controllers will make Canberra’s roads safer.

Critical road maintenance like fixing dangerous potholes and clearing debris will be fixed faster after Chief Minister Andrew Barr’s announcement that 71 public service jobs will be insourced.

The positions include traffic controllers at roadworks, special events, mowing and litter picking.

CFMEU ACT Secretary Zach Smith said the move was a win for all Canberrans.

“Directly employing traffic controllers will mean potholed roads get fixed faster, potentially saving lives on Canberra’s roads,” he said.

“Outsourcing traffic controllers led to massive delays in the ACT’s road maintenance program which raised the risk of deadly crashes.

“More secure jobs means more reliable services. 

“This decision will not only benefit traffic controllers but the entire community through boosted capacity for mowing and cleaning rubbish from our streets.

“This is a critical step in putting a stop to labour hire companies being allowed to undercut ACT Government wages.

“Traffic controllers who ensure routine roadwork and special events are safe are essential workers and need to be treated like it.

“The Chief Minister and Minister Steel should be congratulated on this boost to Canberra’s roads and secure jobs.”


Contact details:

Matt Coughlan 0400 561 480 / [email protected]

More from this category

  • Transport Automotive
  • 16/03/2026
  • 17:06
Road Freight NSW (RFNSW)

RFNSW CALLS FOR FURTHER SUPPORT FOR FREIGHT OPERATORS FOLLOWING NSW FUEL ROUNDTABLE

Peak body Road Freight NSW (RFNSW) has welcomed the swift action by the Minns Government to convene an industry fuel roundtable, but is calling for further assistance for freight operators as ongoing fuel pressures continue to strain the trucking freight industry. RFNSW Chief Executive Officer Simon O’Hara said the roundtable brought together more than 60 industry leaders, businesses, unions and government representatives, providing those impacted by the unfolding fuel situation with an important opportunity to share their concerns and gain clarity on the current supply outlook. “Having informed industry bodies in the room providing valuable input was welcomed as a…

  • Finance Investment, Transport Automotive
  • 15/03/2026
  • 08:15
Earlypay

Oil shock pumps the brakes on transport sector and nation’s SMEs

Australia’s small and medium businesses are facing a sharp increase in cost pressures as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East drive volatility in global…

  • Contains:
  • Transport Automotive
  • 10/03/2026
  • 09:58
Road Freight NSW (RFNSW)

RFNSW calls for fuel security for NSW freight operators

Peak body Road Freight NSW (RFNSW) has warned that escalating hostilities in the Middle East are continuing to drive-up petrol and diesel prices across Australia and today called on the Albanese Government to ensure adequate, consistent fuel supply for freight operators. RFNSW Chief Executive Officer Simon O’Hara said any sustained rise in global oil prices would lead to higher prices at the bowser, increasing the cost of transporting groceries, pharmaceuticals, construction materials, agriculture and other essential goods. “Diesel is the life blood of the freight industry and is by far, the biggest operating cost for trucking operators, who move the…

Media Outreach made fast, easy, simple.

Feature your press release on Medianet's News Hub every time you distribute with Medianet. Pay per release or save with a subscription.