We note this week-end's media release from the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack and Minister for Trade Simon Birmingham calling for all parties involved in Sydney's waterfront industrial dispute to work together on a quick resolution to minimise the impact on workers, freight and the nation.
This being what appears to be the root cause of existing operational issues including empty container park congestion, vessels by-passing Port Botany and massive shipping line surcharges (with inadequate notice or consultation) imposed on exporters and importers.
Media Release - SYDNEY WATERFRONT INDUSTRIAL ACTION
The timing of the Federal Government commentary is encouraging on the eve of further shipping line surcharge announcements that are likely to follow last weeks' lead by the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) and CMA CGM.
This coming week, Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) and the Australian Peak Shippers Association (APSA) will be escalating our advocacy with industry stakeholders and NSW / Federal Ministers.
Tomorrow (Monday 14 September 2020) FTA / APSA will take next steps in our our media camapign through engagement with external advisory services. Thank you for those members (and clients of freight forwarder members) who have come forward offering to detail the impacts of current operating environment at Port Botany. This will be most useful for integration into our ongoing media and advocacy campaigns.
Paul Zalai - Director and Co-Founder, FTA / Secretariat, APSA |
|