Shipping Reform Launch
On 9 September 2011, the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport the Hon Anthony Albanese MP announced the Government’s shipping policy reform Stronger Shipping for a Stronger Economy.
As an island nation, the maritime sector is the cornerstone of Australia’s transport industry. Safe, efficient, environmentally sustainable maritime operations are critical to improving our national productivity and maintaining our high reputation in regard to marine environmental management, safety and security.
Stronger Shipping for a Stronger Economy delivers a reform package that positions the Australian shipping industry to take advantage of the opportunities provided by our burgeoning export market and increased domestic transport task. It creates a platform for rejuvenation with potential for new jobs, opportunity and prosperity.
The shipping package comprises four key elements:
-
tax reforms to remove barriers to investment in Australian shipping and to foster the global competitiveness of the shipping industry;
-
a strengthened and simplified regulatory framework with a transparent licensing regime supported by clearly stated objectives;
-
the establishment of an Australian International Shipping Register (AISR) to encourage Australian companies to participate in the international trades; and
-
establishment of a Maritime Workforce Development Forum to progress key maritime skills and training priorities.