The Queensland government is putting motorists at risk by not supporting a plan for an independent tribunal to set truck drivers' pay rates, a union says.
The Transport Workers Union (TWU) says the government "will have blood on its hands" if its stance causes the federal Road Safety Remuneration Tribunal Bill to fail.
The legislation to set up the independent remuneration tribunal was introduced in November last year.
One of the tribunal's functions would be to set minimum rates of pay and related conditions for employed and self-employed truck drivers.
TWU secretary Peter Biagini says the legislation would ensure companies pay their drivers a "safe rate" so truck drivers don't have to take risks on the road.
"This is all about the companies that aren't paying safe rates (and) bringing them up to that level," he said.
Industrial Relations Minister Cameron Dick has been reported as saying that Fair Work Australia would be a better agency to set truck drivers' pay rates.
Mr Biagini says he will be requesting an urgent meeting with Mr Dick and Premier Anna Bligh.
Mr Dick's office has been approached for comment.
Mr Dick says the state government is not opposed to the federal government's proposals.
"While we need to consider the Commonwealth Government's request in detail, the Queensland Government supports any measures to improve road safety for transport workers," Mr Dick said in a statement.
"I will be meeting with the TWU to discuss issues but it is incorrect to say we are opposed to the Federal Government's proposals."
Mr Dick says the government has consistently noted there are a range of factors that impact on the safety of those who work on the roads.
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