Truck drivers travelling across Sydney will soon be able to stop at the city’s first dedicated heavy vehicle rest area, with the Australian and NSW governments identifying a six-hectare piece of land located close to a key junction of the motorway network.
The Albanese and Minns Labor Governments will each contribute $40 million as a first step towards transforming the greenfield site at Eastern Creek into a purpose-built rest stop where truckies can shower and take a break from the road.
The truck stop is intended to deliver a much-needed rest area for truck drivers between Pheasants Nest to the south of Sydney and Wyong to the north – a distance of 180 kilometres and nearly two hours driving.
The site is located five minutes from the M7 and ten minutes from the M4 and will be of particular benefit to drivers hauling freight through Sydney between Victoria and Queensland.
A survey of 800 truckies – overwhelmingly long-haul drivers of B-doubles and semi-trailers – found safety and security was their highest priority for a rest area, as well as the provision of separate toilet and shower facilities for female drivers.
Based on driver feedback and industry consultation, the rest area will provide flushing toilets, clean drinking water, hot showers, ample available parking including secluded bays for sleeping, and shaded areas for time outside the truck cabin.
The new rest stop will provide space for a range of heavy vehicles, including oversize overmass, and it will give truckies a safe and accessible area to rest and manage fatigue as part of their journey.
“Sydney has a reputation for being Australia’s least friendly city for truck drivers. We are changing that,” said NSW Minister for Transport and Roads John Graham.
“Truckies are the backbone of our economy and they deserve a place in Sydney to rest and recharge.
“By ensuring our truck drivers are well-rested we are also ensuring the safest possible motorway network for all drivers,” he said.
