The Commonwealth Government is seeking comment from ship operators, shipping companies, and other relevant stakeholders on proposed changes to ensure coastal shipping plays an increasing role in Australia's freight transport network.
Only 15 per cent of Australia's domestic freight is moved by ship. Coastal shipping has the potential to take long distance cargo off highways and railway lines to ease future freight demands on the national transport network.
The Commonwealth has identified a range of administrative issues in the Coastal Trading (Revitalising Australian Shipping) Act 2012, which place unnecessary burdens on shipping companies and the Australian businesses that rely on coastal shipping. The discussion paper aims to seek views on modifying the Act.
Written submissions to the discussion paper can be sent to [email protected] by Friday, 28 April 2017.
To download copies of the Coastal Shipping Reforms Discussion Paper go to:www.infrastructure.gov.au/maritime/