About us
Leading the way for Victoria’s rural and livestock transporters
The Livestock & Rural Transporters Association of Victoria (LRTAV) is the peak industry body representing livestock and rural freight operators across Victoria. Since 1996, we’ve been a trusted voice for operators ranging from single-truck owner-drivers to large regional fleets, working to create a fairer, safer, and more efficient transport sector.
Whether you’re hauling livestock, grain, hay, fertiliser, or machinery, LRTAV exists to support the businesses that form the backbone of Victoria’s agricultural supply chain.
Why We Exist
LRTAV was founded to give rural transport operators a collective voice in policy, safety, and compliance matters. We advocate directly with state and federal governments to push for:
Fair regulation tailored to rural realities
Improved road access and maintenance
Livestock welfare and loading safety
Mental health awareness and support for operators
Our members also benefit from training, compliance tools, and exclusive discounts through our growing network of industry partners.
Advocacy.
Representation.
Support.
Our History
LRTAV was originally established in 1986 as the Livestock Transporters Association of Victoria. In 2005, we adopted our current name to reflect the broader freight activities of our members.
Today, we proudly represent over 200 businesses across Victoria and beyond. We’re also a key contributor to national-level discussions through our affiliation with the Australian Livestock and Rural Transporters Association (ALRTA).
1986 — The Beginning
The Association was founded in 1986 at an ALTA conference in Albury to give Victorian transport operators a united voice. With its first office in Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, the early focus was on licensing, loading standards, insurance pressures, fuel costs and improving conditions at Newmarket saleyards.
1986
Late 1980s – 1990s — Growing Momentum
Throughout the late ’80s and ’90s, membership expanded across rural Victoria. Annual conferences and training days strengthened industry connections while advocacy efforts improved compliance treatment and access to regional freight routes.
1980s – 1990s
2000s — Increased Influence
In the 2000s, the Association became more active in state and national policy discussions. Member support, compliance guidance and training programs grew as regulatory requirements increased across the livestock and rural freight sectors.
2000s
2010s — Modernisation
During the 2010s, the Association rebranded as the Livestock & Rural Transporters Association of Victoria (LRTAV). This period saw major advances in safety, biosecurity, animal welfare, effluent management and driver education, reflecting a broader membership base.
2010s
2020s – Today — Industry Leadership
In recent years, the LRTAV has delivered key achievements including Melbourne Tunnel access for livestock vehicles, expansion of the HPLV network and statewide effluent disposal infrastructure. The organisation continues to provide practical training and advocate for safe, fair access to regional roads.
2020s – Today
Meet Our Committee
The LRTAV committee is made up of dedicated operators who understand the industry from the ground up.
