The federal Coalition stepped up its objections to the plan yesterday as a parliamentary inquiry prepared to weigh industry arguments against mandated "safe rates" for drivers, The Australian Financial Review reports.

Transport Minister Anthony Albanese argues the plan would help prevent horrific crashes.

Last night, he stood by the reforms and said the cost to the economy from road accidents was considerable. "These reforms are common sense and overdue," he said.

"The link between exploitation and safety outcomes for drivers has been well established through independent research, and groups such as the Australian Livestock Association and Linfox support the changes."

Transport companies and industry groups have warned that costs, reaching hundreds of millions of dollars, would have to be passed on to consumers.