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ARTICLE · 18 JUNE 2026

Proposed Amendments To The Road Transport Contractual Chain Order – Implications For Construction And Infrastructure Projects

Holding Redlich
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The Fair Work Commission has published proposed variations to the Road Transport Contractual Chain Order following a review hearing in May 2026. These amendments aim to refine compliance mechanisms and clarify obligations, but key challenges for construction and infrastructure supply chains remain unresolved, including forensic difficulties with identifying transport costs and determining which parties fall within scope.

AustraliaReal Estate and Construction
Helena Golovanoff
Helena Golovanoff
Jordan Russell
Jordan Russell
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In April, the Fair Work Commission’s Expert Panel (Commission) made the Road Transport Contractual Chain Order – Fuel Cost Recovery – 2026 (RTCCO) in response to rising fuel prices driven by the conflict in the Middle East. Following the one-month RTCCO review hearing on 25 May 2026, the Commission has published its proposed variations to the RTCCO, which are now subject to consultation.

What are the proposed variations?

The proposed variations are targeted at refining and clarifying the RTCCO, rather than introducing wholesale changes to its operations. In summary, the variations would:

  • clarify that parties must ‘adjust or set’ rates, addressing new contracts or arrangements entered after 6 March 2026

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