ESSENTIAL SERVICES - FTA / APSA advocacy in the event of Victorian COVID-19 LEVEL 4 restrictions

Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) and the Australian Peak Shippers Association (APSA) continues its close engagement with the Victorian Government and Freight Victoria in terms of COVID-19 measures and related operational implications.   FTA / APSA has specifically raised concerns about the potential implications of level four restrictions and have received feedback that "at this stage" health advice remains that the next stage of lockdown is not necessary.   Furthermore, the Victorian Government has stated that there is currently no firm definition of level four restrictions with further close work to be conducted with the Chief Health Officer's office and relevant departments.   In response, FTA / APSA has reiterated our advice as outlined in our submission to the National Covid-19 Coordination Commission, advising the Victorian government to apply these principles in planning for stage four restrictions

FTA / APSA ADVOCACY POSITION ON "ESSENTIAL SERVICES" "As well as stevedores, air cargo terminal operators, transport operators, licensed depots, fumigation providers and empty container parks (physical handlers of cargo), it is essential that freight forwarders and customs brokers be included as essential services. Freight forwarders are playing a critical role in co-ordinating freight and arranging international transport, chartering aircraft and consolidation of freight. Customs brokerages are trade professionals that play an essential role of managing import compliance requirements and co-ordinating domestic transport. Biosecurity compliance managed by customs brokers is more important than ever during these challenging times. Standards cannot be compromised as Australia cannot afford an imported pest infestation that would decimate our agriculture industry on top of a pandemic. The entire international supply chain is fragile at the best of times, removing or limiting the capabilities of one link is not an option."

FTA / APSA will continue to keep members up to date on pertinent developments.

Sal Milici - Head of Border and Biosecurity - FTA / APSA