Linda Reynolds (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Government Services) Share this | Hansard source

I can confirm that, on 21 September 2020, the department did release a discussion paper proposing changes to the coastal trading framework for cargo vessels. The proposed changes are based on stakeholder feedback. The department received 44 submissions, including from shipping companies, the maritime industry, unions and onshore businesses. Nothing in the paper is yet final. The department will continue to work collaboratively to find an outcome that all parties can accept.

Under the proposed reforms, protections for Australian vessels will be maintained and foreign vessels will continue to need licences. Opening the coast, a strategic fleet or high-cost subsidies will not be considered. The options suggested in the discussion paper are focused on achieving administrative efficiencies within the current system. On 10 June 2021, the Special Recreational Vessels Amendment Act 2021 received royal assent. This extends the superyacht registration for two years and allows more time to develop a more permanent regulatory solution.