Action by the Fair Work Commission to consider intervening in the dispute that threatens to disrupt grain exports at ports across Australia, has been welcomed by industry body GrainGrowers.
The action follows a decision by tugboat operator Svitzer to enforce an indefinite lockout of tugboat crews from 18 November. The lockout would prevent vessels being towed, disrupting Australia’s $22.8 billion grain exports ahead of the busy Christmas period.
GrainGrowers said the dispute came at the start of the crucial harvest period with exporters already struggling to move grain and keep up with international demand.
GrainGrowers General Manager Policy and Advocacy, Zach Whale, said that protracted industrial action is having an increasingly detrimental impact on port productivity.
“As an export-orientated industry, well-functioning ports are critical to supporting Australia's grain industry. We rely heavily on the nation's ports and shipping networks to transport grain to overseas markets, and we need all aspects to operate efficiently.”
“It is critical industrial relations arrangements are managed to ensure goods can be imported and exported through the most appropriate port, avoiding delays and increased costs.”
He said unless action was taken, efficient export-focused industries like grains would suffer long-term damage, impacting Australia’s reputation as a trusted trading partner.
“This year, growers have been already hammered by wet weather, severely damaged roads and transport infrastructure. To have a shipping dispute on top of this, potentially stopping harvest exports is an unnecessary burden on Australian trade.”
Mr Whale said while the focus was on the current industrial dispute, the broader issue of port reform also required urgent consideration.
“GrainGrowers’ position is that if we are serious about improving productivity and driving economic growth, then government must work urgently to address a range of issues, including skyrocketing terminal charges, protracted industrial action and ongoing delays at ports across Australia.”
“As an industry, we need action to be taken; otherwise, efficient export-focused industries like grains will suffer long-term damage through issues largely outside our control,” Mr Whale said.
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Media contact:
Chris Rowley
Email: chris.rowley@graingrowers.com.au