MIL-OSI Australia: Exemption extension brings cruising certainty for 2024
The Australian Government has announced an extension to the Coastal Trading (Revitalising Australian Shipping) Act 2012 exemption, providing certainty and support to the country’s cruise industry for the year 2024. Under this exemption, eligible cruise operators are not required to obtain a licence for coastal trading activities, specifically the transportation of cruise passengers to and from Australian ports.
This extension, which will be in effect from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024, replaces the existing exemption that is set to expire on December 31, 2023. The exemption is applicable to vessels weighing more than 5,000 gross tonnes that fulfill certain criteria.
Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government Minister Catherine King expressed the government’s commitment to supporting cruise tourism, which has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Minister King emphasized that the exemption aims to reduce bureaucratic red tape and costs while supporting THRIVE 2030, the national strategy for the sustainable growth of the visitor economy.
In addition to providing another year of exemption, the government intends to use this time to seek feedback and consultation on potential amendments to the Coastal Trading Act. These amendments aim to further revitalize the Australian maritime industry.
The extension of the exemption is a positive step for the cruise industry, as it offers stability and an enabling environment for cruise operators. The exemption not only reduces regulatory burdens but also helps stimulate the recovery of cruise tourism, which is vital for local economies across the country.
The Australian Government’s decision acknowledges the significant impact of the pandemic on tourism and underscores the importance of supporting an industry that has the potential to contribute to economic growth and job creation.
With the extension of the exemption, cruise operators can plan and operate with greater certainty, knowing that they can continue to provide exceptional cruise experiences to passengers without the need to navigate complex licensing procedures.
The government’s commitment to consulting on potential amendments to the Coastal Trading Act demonstrates its dedication to ensuring the long-term viability and sustainability of the Australian maritime industry. By working closely with cruise operators and industry stakeholders, the government aims to shape a supportive regulatory framework that promotes growth, innovation, and resilience within the sector.
The extension of the Coastal Trading Act exemption for 2024 will undoubtedly serve as a catalyst for the recovery and resurgence of the cruise industry in Australia. As the country gradually emerges from the pandemic, this exemption will play a crucial role in attracting tourists, creating employment opportunities, and driving economic growth in regions reliant on cruise tourism.
For more information about the Coastal Trading Act and its provisions, cruise operators and interested parties can visit the official website of the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts.
In summary, the Australian Government’s extension of the Coastal Trading Act exemption until the end of 2024 offers much-needed certainty and support to the country’s cruise industry. This decision reflects the government’s commitment to facilitating the recovery and long-term sustainability of the sector, providing a conducive environment for cruise operators to navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic and revitalize Australia’s maritime industry.
