SOURCE: https://www.afr.com/work-and-careers/workplace/waterfront-industrial-action-causes-gridlock-in-sydney-20200911-p55ul9
EXTRACT
Freight & Trade Alliance chief executive Paul Zalai said the congestion surcharges would see grain exporters absorb an extra $17 per tonne of direct costs.
That kind of extra cost would make "product uncompetitive in a global market and [was] a devastating blow for an industry that already has locked in negotiated contracts with their overseas buyers", he warned.
Fletcher International Exports founder Roger Fletcher said airfreight restrictions meant sea freight was even more vital during the pandemic and called on the government to intervene.
"At a time when regional Australia's farmers have the chance to bounce back after years of crippling drought and devastating bushfires, they are being held over a barrel by a few hundred waterfront workers," he said.
"This should not and cannot be allowed to happen and for the government, it is time to act – no excuses!"