Industry Recruitment

How the Industry Recruits

While employers traditionally favour experienced drivers, experience alone does not guarantee safety or quality. Many drivers are self-taught and have not been trained in the 130+ areas essential for low-risk driving. Key skills, such as hazard recognition/negotiation, subconscious low risk decision-making and risk-reduction psychology, require formal instruction and hands-on practice.

Despite over 20,000 Victorians obtaining a heavy vehicle licence each year, most receive only 0.5 to 1 day of training. As a result, they may learn to move the vehicle, but they lack the depth and practice required to drive safely at a subconscious, low-risk level. This creates a cycle where employers require experience that’s difficult to gain without first receiving proper training.

The Industry Is Changing

In response to driver shortages, more employers are recognising the value of structured training New Entry Level Drivers (NELD) over unverified experience. Employers are seeking new drivers who:

• Demonstrate highly competent low-risk driving skills & techniques.
• Align with company values and culture.
• Require minimal post-employment upskilling.
• A safety-first mindset.
• Professionalism and communication skills.
• Low-risk driving technique and application.
• Strong work ethic and long-term career commitment.

Training Duration vs Employment & Risk Profile (Heavy Rigid Auto)

Duration	Description	Employment Potential	Driver Risk Profile
1 Day	Meets minimum requirement	Very Low	High
2 Days	Basic/intermediate skills	Low–Medium	Medium–High
3 Days	Stronger urban driving skills	Medium	Medium
4 Days	Solid urban skillset	Medium–High	Medium–Low
5 Days	Urban + rural low-risk skills	High	Low

*Assumes average learner aptitude.

What Sets You Apart as a New Driver

1. Structured training & low-risk competency (How many hours of BTW training you did?).
2. Road and Workplace safety focus.
3. Strong communication skills.
4. Professional presentation & conduct.
5. Coachable mindset and positive attitude.
6. Motivation for a long-term transport career.
7. Solid industry basic knowledge.