The Australian Peak Shippers Association (APSA) would like to thank the Minister and senior advisors for meeting with a delegation of APSA members yesterday, 26 June 2017, in relation to the Inquiry into Freight & Supply Chain Priorities, the increase in terminal access fees and other new cost pressures faced by Australian cargo owners and freight forwarders.
The Minister has been a strong supporter of exporters during his time in office and this was reflected on the day. Ultimately the costs of doing business are increasing for all Australian businesses. However, we need to ensure that the cost of using essential infrastructure, and in particular our trade gateways, does not affect our trade competitiveness.
APSA also acknowledges the support received by other export associations, in particular the Australian Horticultural Exporters Association and the Australian Cotton Shippers Association, in these matters.
APSA will continue to work with the Department, the Ministers office, the stevedores and other stakeholders, and will provide developments to members as they emerge.
Travis Brooks-Garrett - FTA / APSA