Truck drivers in Western Australia

Truck drivers support various sectors across our state such as mining, earthmoving, agriculture, and logistics.

In Western Australia (WA) you can expect a wide range of work driving, depending on your qualifications and experience. You may be responsible for transporting:

  • general freight

  • construction materials

  • large mining and earthmoving equipment

  • bulk products and liquids

  • agricultural products and machinery.

Are you a truck driver considering a change of location? WA has plenty of exciting job opportunities for you!

Below you can find out more about what you need to work as a truck driver in WA, and what you need to move. If you’re ready to check out all the truck driver jobs available now go to Seek.

Truck driver licences in WA

WA truck drivers must hold a valid driver’s licence, of an appropriate class, that authorises the holder to drive their particular type of heavy vehicle.

Depending on the vehicle required for your work and other requirements, you may need additional licences.

Further information on your eligibility and how to upgrade your licence to any of these class types can be found on the Department of Transport (DoT) website.

Required registration and licences

  • Driver’s licence authorising you to drive heavy vehicles (Australian LR, MR, HR, HC or MC Class)

    You may also need:

  • Forklift licence

  • Dangerous Goods drivers licence

Truck drivers moving to WA from another state or territory within Australia

If you’re visiting WA from another Australian state or territory, you may use your existing driver's licence or learner's permit for the period you’re visiting WA or until the licence or permit expires (whichever comes first).

If you’re in WA to live here permanently or intend to take up permanent residence, you’re no longer considered to be a visitor. You must apply for a WA driver's licence within 3 months of becoming a WA resident.

Further information on what to do with your licence when you visit or move to WA can be found on the DoT website.

If you're bringing a truck with you, you'll need to licence your vehicle in WA. This will require the vehicle to pass an inspection and pay any applicable fees. Visit the licence a vehicle in WA page on the DoT website for more information.

Make sure your insurance is up to date and the vehicle meets all applicable regulations in WA. Be sure to check whether any other licences you need in WA are valid before commencing work.

How much can I earn as a truck driver in Australia?

$84,141

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics Employee Earnings (May 2021 release), truck drivers earn an estimated $84,141 per year. 

What kind of work could I have as a truck driver in WA?

Some work WA truck drivers can expect as part of their role includes:

  • Delivering packages and goods to homes, businesses, and other locations

  • Transporting materials, equipment, and supplies to and from construction sites

  • Transporting crops and livestock to processing plants or other locations

  • Transporting loads for the mining and resources industry to rail heads or ports

  • Moving Over Size Over Mass (OSOM) loads, possibly under pilot escort

  • Retail company deliveries - delivering goods to stores and warehouses

  • Transporting raw materials and finished products to and from manufacturing plants

  • Collecting and transporting waste and recyclables to disposal facilities.

The type of work you perform will depend on your qualifications, experience, and the requirements of your employer.

How to become a truck driver in WA

WA truck drivers must hold a valid driver’s licence that authorises the holder to drive heavy vehicles.

Learn more on how to upgrade or add a licence to allow you to drive heavy vehicles in WA on the DoT website.

For information on general truck driver careers in WA, check out the Jobs & Skills WA website.

Training and qualifications

  • Driver’s licence authorising you to drive heavy vehicles (Australian LR, MR, HR, HC or MC Class)

Ready to look for your next truck driver role in WA?

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