FTA /APSA meetings with the Federal Ministers

Monday, July 2, 2018

Last Thursday 29 June 2018, Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) and the Australian Peak Shippers Association (APSA) had the opportunity to meet with relevant Ministers and their advisors at Parliament House in Canberra, addressing several international trade and logistics reforms.
 
These meetings included the office of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, the Hon. Michael McCormack MP, the office of the Hon. Keith Pitt MP, the Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, and the Hon. Angus Taylor MP, the Minister for Law Enforcement and Cybersecurity (with day to day responsibility for Department of Home Affairs issues).
 
LtoR: Paul Zalai (Chairman, Freight & Trade Alliance); Hon. Angus Taylor MP; Travis Brooks-Garrett (Secretariat, Australian Peak Shippers Association). 
In each meeting, FTA/APSA acknowledged the support we have received from Government Departments. Industry engagement is critical to the success of any Government policy.

Discussions with the Ministers and their offices included:
 
·       Strengthening of the Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) process and galvanizing benefits for the Australian Trusted Trader program for exporters and service providers;
·       Feedback on the rollout of the expanded Known Consignor program and opportunities to increase industry awareness and preparedness;  
·       Concerns regarding the biosecurity levy, the proposed implementation model, and suggestions regarding alternative cost recovery models;
·       Opportunities for future FTA/APSA member engagement in the National Freight & Supply Chain Strategy (under development and due to be released in May, 2019);
·       Relaying member concerns regarding infrastructure charges, increased port supply chain costs and changes in the port supply chain competition landscape;
·       An update on the international liner shipping market from the perspective of Australia's shippers.
 
With FTA/APSA continuing to grow, we recognise the importance of providing a voice to our members to the executive branch of the Australian Government. We will continue to make regular trips to the "Hill" to make our voices heard.
 
We thank the Ministers and their advisors for their continued support, including contributing toAcross Borders magazine, attending FTA/APSA events and listening to feedback received from our members.
 
For more information regarding our advocacy activities please email me directly at tbrooks-garrett@ftalliance.com.au
 
 
Travis Brooks-Garrett- FTA/APS