Kristy McBain (Eden-Monaro, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories) Share this | Hansard source

I move:

That this bill be now read a second time.

The Special Recreational Vessel Amendment Bill 2023 will extend the sunset date of the Special Recreational Vessels Act 2019 (the SRV Act) from 30 June 2023 to 30 June 2025. This act allows foreign special recreational vessels (also known as superyachts) to apply for a special recreational vessel temporary licence to operate on the Australian coast, if they choose to opt in to the coastal trading regulatory regime. This allows these vessels to be offered for hire or charter.

The proposed amendment means these vessels can continue to operate under temporary licences, bringing overseas dollars into regional communities around Australia. Encouraging special recreational vessels to come to Australia to charter is important, particularly for the post-COVID recovery.

Special recreational vessels bring a range of economic benefits—Australian producers and services industries all stand to benefit from the continuation of superyacht charters. The opportunity to supply food and beverages to the vessels as well as the onshore demand for tourism, accommodation and cafes and restaurants will provide much-needed business.

Extending the repeal date of the SRV Act for two years will allow more time to consult stakeholders on a longer term solution for special recreational vessel regulation. Earlier consultation was paused because of the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting supply chain issues, and will not be completed prior to the SRV Act sunsetting.

In the interim, the SRV industry needs certainty to continue to operate in Australia.

The Australian government is committed to ensuring Australia's regulatory framework for our maritime industries remains fit for purpose, meets community expectations and supports Australian businesses.

The government has appointed a task force to provide advice on how to establish an Australian strategic maritime fleet. As part of its terms of reference, the task force is expected to provide advice on any changes to the coastal trading regulatory framework required to support establishment of this fleet. The government will consider the task force's advice, which is due by 30 June 2023, before determining whether wider regulatory reform is required to support and grow Australia's maritime industry more broadly, including consideration of a longer term solution for regulating superyachts.

The superyacht industry will no doubt make an important contribution to our post-COVID-19 recovery as we look to reopen the economy and permit more leisure activities in Australia.

The Australian government recognises the economic opportunities that superyachts afford Australian businesses, as well as our regional and urban communities.

This bill permits special recreational vessels to continue to charter in Australia and have these opportunities realised.

Debate adjourned.

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