By addressing the mosaic of regulatory challenges and providing a clear roadmap for transition, MERNAP lays the foundation for both a greener maritime sector and a resilient Australian economy. Supporting this position, FTA / APSA have prepared the following submission with five (5) recommendations in response to the specific questions as outlined in the MERNAP Issues Paper on Regulations & Standards :
RECOMMENDATION 1 - MERNAP needs to take a holistic approach to decarbonisation, ensuring compliance with IMO standards set, and crucially ensuring stakeholder engagement, particularly with ship owners & port operators. RECOMMENDATION 2 – To best serve the maritime industry's evolving needs, it is recommended that the government adopt a dynamic, sustainable, and inclusive regulatory framework that prioritises adaptability, global harmonisation, stakeholder transparency, and uncompromised safety. RECOMMENDATION 3 – MERNAP should consider the impacts and regulation of shore-side electricity in maritime ports, thereby reducing emissions and enhancing air quality. RECOMMENDATION 4 – As a priority, targeted national actions need to specifically address shipping competition law (including repeal of Part X CCA, exclusive dealings via vertical integration, quayside cost recovery), Terminal Access Charges (stevedores & empty container parks), container detention (import & export). By doing so, holistically it would offset the cost impost of any carbon pricing mechanisms. RECOMMENDATION 5 – MERNAP should ensure stakeholder engagement with ship owners and port operators to discuss and map the way forward in preparation of next generation fuel transitioning. The FTA / APSA submission is available HERE Tom Jensen - Head of International Freight & Logistics - FTA / APSA Copyright © 2023 Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) Pty Ltd, All rights reserved. |