FTA / APSA Weekly Report 2026/11 - sponsored by Port of Newcastle

Wednesday, March 18, 2026

FTA / APSA WEEKLY REPORT 2026/11
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JOIN THE ALLIANCE
SPONSOR OF THE WEEK


FTA / APSA & NZCOC are proud to have Port of Newcastle as their PLATINUM sponsor for the upcoming 2026 Australia  & New Zealand Shipping & Logistics Conference

FTA / APSA - TRAINING

ONLY 14 DAYS LEFT
to complete your Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for the customs broker licensing period ending 31 March 2026!

FTA ONLINE CPD TRAINING 


ONLY COURSES COMPLETED FROM YOUR "ACTIVE" FOLDER WILL COUNT TOWARDS YOUR CPD POINTS FOR THE CURRENT PERIOD. 

HOW TO DOWNLOAD YOUR FTA CPD ATTAINMENT STATEMENT
  • Login via MYFTACPD HERE (your username starts with "FT")
  • Click on your name at the top right-hand side of the page
  • Click on 'Manage Account' (you can also change your password in this area)
  • Click on 'FTA Attainment Statement'
  • Select the CPD period
  • Click download

MANDATORY ABF CPD MODULE

The Australian Border Force's Mandatory ABF CPD Module for the customs broker licensing period ending 31 March 2026 must be completed by 31 March 2026 via https://australianborderforce.birchlp.com.au
 
For ABF platform assistance please contact broker licensing directly on brokers.licensing@abf.gov.au

Note: You should download your ABF Certificate of Completion and keep as a record. This course will NOT appear on your FTA CPD Attainment Statement. This module will provide you with 3 CPD points in Stream B towards you required total of 30 CPD points for the period. Maximum 9 CPD points in Stream B should be completed on our MYFTACPD training platform.

 

MANDATORY CBC ACTIVITY
 
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries & Forestry (DAFF) advised there will be NO Mandatory CBC Activity or assessment for the period ending 31 March 2026. Refer HERE
Are you organised for your Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training?

FTA offers online training for the customs broker licencing period 1 April to 31 March each year. The cost of an online training package is $150 (excl. gst) for member organisations bulk discounts are available on a sliding scale. 


Licensed customs brokers not employed by a corporate FTA member, can purchase an Individual Membership which includes online CPD training for the cost of only $300 (excl. gst) per customs broker licensing period.

Please email Caroline at czalai@FTAlliance.com.au if you wish to organise a package.
2026-2027 CPD BORDER COMPLIANCE PROGRAMS 

Secure the best rate. Member Early Bird Rates Available Now!

2026/27 FTA WA CPD Border Compliance Program - Saturday 2 May 2026 
2026/27 FTA NSW CPD Border Compliance Program- Friday 8 May 2026 
2026/27 FTA NSW CPD Border Compliance Program- Saturday 9 May 2026 
2026/27 FTA VIC CPD Border Compliance Program - Friday 15 May 2026
2026/27 FTA VIC CPD Border Compliance Program - Saturday 16 May 2026 

2026/27 FTA QLD CPD Border Compliance Program - Wednesday 27 May 2026 

Discount available for bulk registrations for 6 or more - contact czalai@ftalliance.com.au

FTA / APSA - OUT & ABOUT

OptiBook launch at DP World Fremantle

Many thanks to Kaylee Salzke for the invitation to attend the "lunch & learn" session this week on the upcoming implementation of the OptiBook at the DP World terminal in Fremantle - it was great to see so many transport organisations in attendance for this info session.


Remember to look out for the training webinars that will be coming up in early April - well run event many thanks to all

From L to R in the pic - Kaylee Salzke (Growth Manager - OneStop), John Park, Scott McDowelll (Manager - Projects - FRT - Oceania – APAC), Theresa Duong (Head of Customer Success - OneStop), Amy Little (Landside Coordinator),

Fremantle Ports Supply Chain Forum

Good to catch up with friends and colleagues at Fremantle Ports Supply Chain Forum on Thursday. Some good presentations on the Security Update at the Port, Outer Harbour developments, Trade Update and an economic outlook from the Chamber of Commerce - many thanks to Tiago Martinho Andrew Hathaway Leo Prendeville Benjamin Cole and to Jamie Allardice from Fremantle Ports for facilitating the event

Anthony (Tony) Vinson will be taking part in his eighth Tour de Brisbane on Sunday 12 April 2026. The event raises funds for The Prince Charles Hospital FoundationThe Common Good, supporting life-changing organ transplantation research. https://www.thecommongood.org.au/

To donate click on the link below or copy and paste the link into your browser.
https://tourdebrisbane.gofundraise.com.au/page/AnthonyVinson-55215000

FTA / APSA - IN THE MEDIA

A full list of our extensive ongoing media coverage is available HERE
UPCOMING WEBINARS

FTA/APSA Global Shipping Insights


Thursday 2 April 2026 - 1200 AEDT


Join us for our seventh session as we break down the FTA Monthly Shipping Report – March 2026

Personal Injury & Property Damage Claims - 2026 Risk & Resilience Webinar Series

Tuesday 15 April 2026 - 1200  AEST

Join James Cotis, Mahsa Curci, and Karim Bizri for the third session of the 2026 Risk & Resilience Webinar Series, focusing on Personal Injury and Property Damage Claims. This session will cover practical strategies for managing these risks within freight forwarding and supply chain operations. 

Fines, Duties & Uncollected Cargo - 2026 Risk & Resilience Webinar Series

Wednesday 6 May 2026 - 1200 AEST

Join James Cotis, John Thomson, and Karim Bizri for the fourth session of the 2026 Risk & Resilience Webinar Series, focusing on Fines, Duties, and Uncollected Cargo. This session will provide practical guidance on managing financial and operational risks in freight forwarding and supply chain operations. 

FTA / APSA - UPCOMING EVENTS

2026 AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND SHIPPING & LOGISTICS CONFERENCE

Registrations now open

Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA), the Australian Peak Shippers Association (APSA) and the New Zealand Cargo Owners Council (NZCOC) are delighted to advise that registrations are now open for the inaugural 2026 Australia & New Zealand Shipping & Logistics Conference.

Are you interested in sponsoring this event?
Please speak with Paul Zalai on 0408 280 123 or pzalai@ftalliance.com.au

2026 CARE-FACTOR INDUSTRY CHARITY TRADE BALL 

Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA), The Compliant Group, Orange Lime Consulting and Next Leap Training Solutions are delighted to host the 2026 Care-Factor Industry Charity Trade Ball at the Hyatt Regency, Sydney on Friday 31st July 2026.

We are delighted to announce our 2026 charity beneficiary is the
 Reboot Mindset Academy


For further details of the event and sponsorship opportunities please click HERE
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2 April 2026 : Webinar - FTA/APSA Global Shipping Insights 
15 April 2026 : WEBINAR - Personal Injury & Property Damage Claims - 2026 Risk & Resilience Webinar Series 
22 April 2026 : 2026 Tasmanian Freight & Logistics Forum 
2 May 2026 : 2026/27 FTA WA CPD Border Compliance Program - Saturday 2 May 2026 
6 May 2026 : WEBINAR - Fines, Duties & Uncollected Cargo - 2026 Risk & Resilience Webinar Series 
8 May 2026 : 2026/27 FTA NSW CPD Border Compliance Program- Friday 8 May 2026 
9 May 2026 : 2026/27 FTA NSW CPD Border Compliance Program- Saturday 9 May 2026 
15 May 2026 : 2026/27 FTA VIC CPD Border Compliance Program - Friday 15 May 2026
16 May 2026 : 2026/27 FTA VIC CPD Border Compliance Program - Saturday 16 May 2026 
18 May 2026 : WISTA NSW: IMO International Day for Women in Maritime, Wollongong (No Cost) 
24 - 26 May 2026 : Australian Steel Association - 2026 Conference 
27 May 2026 : 2026/27 FTA QLD CPD Border Compliance Program - Wednesday 27 May 2026 
17 June 2026 : 2026 FTA NSW Section 77G & Approved Arrangement Forum 

24 June 2026 : 2026 FTA VIC Section 77G & Approved Arrangement Forum 
1 July 2026 : 2026 FTA WA Section 77G & Approved Arrangement Forum 
15 July 2026 : 2026 FTA QLD Section 77G & Approved Arrangement Forum 
31 July 2026 : Care-Factor (Charity Trade ball) Christmas in July
27-28 August 2026 : 2026 Australia & New Zealand Shipping & Logistics Conference

Notices:

23 July 2025 : 2026/27 CPD- Early Bird Registration- Now Open! - read more

LOGISTICS

The Gatekeepers of the Quay –
A History of Australian Customs Brokers


Over the last couple of years Bill Wray, a fellow customs broker and colleague,  has taken the opportunity to write a short book, The Gatekeepers of the Quay – A History of Australian Customs Brokers.
 
In this 40+ page book, you will follow the journey of a profession that transitioned from document runners to legal experts.

Whether a veteran of the industry, a student of logistics, or a curious observer of  Australian history, this is the story of the men and women who stand at the gates of our nation, the invisible professionals who ensure that while the world changes, the border remains secure. - to secure a copy please email Bill Wray (cost A$16.50 plus $3.50 postage)

Salta markets pre-leases at Melbourne intermodals

PROPERTY developer Salta has appointed commercial real estate agency Colliers to market pre-leases for its two intermodal terminals located at Dandenong South and Altona.

 

The terminals are part of Victoria's Port Rail Shuttle Network, a concept backed by the state and Commonwealth governments

The Dandenong South terminal covers 79,911sq m in Salta's 180ha Nexus precinct, while the Altona site comprises 35,627sq m on a 40ha estate next to the Melbourne–Geelong freight rail corridor. READ MORE ( story credit DCN)

Logistics courses and Diplomas now available at NO COST

Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) is pleased to announce good news for members and logistics professionals. WiseTech Academy has now expanded access to its industry training, with almost all courses now available at no cost and open to the broader logistics community.

 

Members can now access more than 400 courses at no cost, including:

  • Diploma of International Freight Forwarding  | Diploma of Customs Broking | Approved Arrangement Accreditation | Section 77G Certification, aAnd many other industry courses

This industry offer is designed to remove barriers to training and support capability development across the entire logistics sector.READ MORE

In Focus News from the Tribunal

One of our goals at the Administrative Review Tribunal is to be accessible and responsive to the diverse needs of parties to proceedings. This means we not only seek feedback, we also act on what our users tell us we need to change.

In this issue, we share some examples of how your feedback is shaping Tribunal processes to better meet our users' diverse needs. We're especially pleased to announce a new liaison service which provides culturally safe, tailored support for First Nations applicants who engage with the Tribunal.  READ MORE

Warehouse and Depot Security Identification Card (WADSIC)

Veritas offers a comprehensive solution for customs depots and warehouse license holders to meet their WADSIC compliance obligations. By using a dedicated WADSIC portal, authorised representatives can effectively manage their personnel as prescribed in both ACN 2022/46 and ACN 2024/21.READ MORE

VALE Clifford John Dunkley

Freight & Trade Alliance received advice over the weekend that John Dunkley passed away peacefully on 25 February after a protracted battle with Cancer.  

John worked in the Department of Customs and Excise for over 12 years, after which he started a consulting and customs agency business in Sydney with Trevor Wallin and Neville Merrill.  

John and Margaret Milne formed C J Dunkley Pty Ltd and Dunkley International in 1972, building a successful business until he retired from Milne Dunkley Pty Ltd in 2000. READ MORE

WA road trains allowed to go heavier to combat regional fuel shortages

The Western Australian government is allowing road trains in the state to carry heavier loads to regional areas in a bid to bring more petrol, diesel and fertiliser to priority communities.

 

As the state government works to bring more fuel and fertiliser to regional WA in the midst of shortages, its Fuel Security Roundtable permits more flexibility for road trains. READ MORE (story credit ATN magazine)

Can NSW keep fuel flowing as global markets tighten?

The NSW Government has convened a fuel security roundtable with industry and government leaders as global market pressures begin affecting fuel distribution and prices across the state.

 

The meeting follows growing concerns about rising diesel costs and reports of localised shortages in some regional communities. READ MORE ( Story credit ATN magazine)

Notices:

17.3.2026 : Have you explored the free industry training yet? - read more
16.3.2026 : ABF Response to Piggybacking Issues Raised by FTA - read more
16.3.2026 : VALE Clifford John Dunkley - read more
12.3.2026 : MIDDLE EAST CONFLICT - Impacts on Air Cargo and Containerised Trade - Update 6 - read more
12.3.2026 : US - Air Cargo Advance Screening (ACAS) - Update 4 - Updated ACAS implementation guidance for U.S bound cargo - read more
11.3.2026 : Climate Change Authority - On Good Authority Newsletter - read more

SEA FREIGHT

PART X Competition & Consumer Act

The Australian Peak Shippers Association (APSA) is the designated peak shipper body granted status by the Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport under Part X of the Consumer & Competition Act to represent the interests of Australian shippers generally in relation to liner cargo shipping services. The following notice has been received and is available to members' reference.

16.3.2026 : Part X: Notice of the Happening of an Affecting Event – for China to Australia inwards and outwards Service

16.3.2026 : Part X: Notice of the Happening of an Affecting Event – for China Australia Taiwan Service (CAT) inwards and outwards
 

Notices:

17.03.2026 : International Shipping Line Financial Data Update - read more

AIR FREIGHT

MSC takes delivery of seventh 777-200F

The aircraft was handed over at Boeing's Everett Delivery Center in Seattle, in the US, and will be operated by MSC Air Cargo under its European air operator's certificate (AOC).

 

MSC Air Cargo's fleet now comprises a total of seven 777 freighters. The addition of a seventh 777F strengthens the company's long-haul capabilities at what MSC Air Cargo said is "a time of sustained demand across Europe–Asia trade lanes, reinforcing its ability to provide stable, dedicated capacity across key intercontinental corridors". READ MORE (story credit AirCargo News)


Qantas Freight Operations

Please refer the Qantas Freight website for updates on operational matters. 

Notices:

12.3.2026 : US - Air Cargo Advance Screening (ACAS) - Update 4 - Updated ACAS implementation guidance for U.S bound cargo - read more
11.3.2026 : Qantas Freight - Import delays at Sydney Airport - read more
11.3.2026 : Qantas Freight - Updated ACAS implementation guidance for U.S bound cargo - read more 

BIOSECURITY

Please click HERE to review the DAFF Biosecurity Report -  sponsored by B.I.E.R.S

Notices:

27.11.2025 : FTA - 2025 Continued Biosecurity Competency (CBC) Update - read more

TRADE

Finance Report

Please see the Weekly Market Summary courtesy of  Xe

READ MORE - LOGIN REQUIRED
LIVE exchange rate conversion


FTA have added the Xe exchange rate widget to the right sidebar on our FTAlliance.com.au home page, so members can easily convert using live rates provided by our affiliate partner in Xe.

It also has a link to the Xe/FTA landing page for members to create a free account with Xe.

Trade Data Updates Week Ending 17th March 2026

 

National ports, the Australian Bureau of statistics and data from other sources  

LOGIN REQUIRED

Notices:

17.3.2026   : Xe Morning Update - Your daily market wrap - read more
16.3.2026   : Xe Morning Update - Your daily market wrap - read more
16.3.2026   : Xe - Market Snapshot and Bank Forecasts 160326 - read more
13.3.2026 :   Xe Morning Update - Your daily market wrap - read more.
11.3.2026 :   Xe Morning Update - Your daily market wrap - read more

 

Anti-Dumping Notices Data Updates Week Ending 17th March 2026

 

FTA has compiled a list of Anti-Dumping Notices from the Department of Industry, Science and Resources 


LOGIN REQUIRED

BORDER

Piggybacking - Australian Border Force Responds to Industry Concerns

Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) has received a formal written response from the Australian Border Force (ABF) following concerns raised by members in relation to piggybacking and identity misuse within the import reporting system.

In response to member feedback, FTA and APSA raised three key issues with ABF during the out of session Piggybacking Workshop convened under the Trade and Goods Compliance Advisory Group (CAG) on 11 November 2025.

ABF's response has now been provided, with key points summarised below. READ MORE

Notices:

16.3.2026 : ABF Response to Piggybacking Issues Raised by FTA - read more
13.3.2026 : NZ Customs Release - read more
13.3.2026 : ABF/AFP - National Disruption Group nets millions with major multi-state success - read moire
11.3.2026 : ABF TC Gazette 26/09 - read more

WEBINARS & RECORDINGS

Stay at the cutting edge through participation in live webinars and access to recordings – all are FREE & EXCLUSIVE to Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) and the Australian Peak Shippers Association (APSA) members.     LOGIN REQUIRED 


17 March 2026 : Webinars & CPD Recordings - read more

Operational Support
For the timeliest response from our team, FTA / APSA members are reminded to send requests for operational support to support@FTAlliance.com.au

Training, Finance & Events Enquiries
For the timeliest response from our team, FTA / APSA members are reminded to send training, finance, events and general administration enquiries to Training@FTAlliance.com.au


 
Member Communications
 

To select your communication preferences please click on "Update Subscription Preferences" at the bottom of any FTA notice -  READ MORE

SPONSORS

FTA and APSA are proud to connect members with the following sponsors as leading suppliers of services to the freight and trade sectors.

Sponsorship prospectus is available HERE

 
 


 













 



 
 






  
















 

 
 


 
 




















 

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