The Australian Logistics Council (ALC) has submitted its response to the Transport Security Amendment (Security of Australia’s Transport Sector) Bill 2024 and has called for the introduction of reforms that do not further burden the nation’s freight and logistics sector.
The Bill proposes expanded definitions, heightened cybersecurity obligations and stronger enforcement powers for the maritime and aviation sectors that have the potential to add cost and disruptions to current operations.
In the ALC’s submission it has noted its strong support for security reforms to strengthen Australia’s resilience but has outlined four key concerns with the current bill.
- Unclear security definitions which could unintentionally include intermodal hubs and empty container parks which has the potential to create unnecessary costs without improving security outcomes.
- Duplicative cybersecurity laws that risk overlapping with existing legislations like the Security of Critical Infrastructure Act, which would add regulatory red tape without clear benefits.
- New compliance could see the existing shortage of cybersecurity professionals put under increased pressure without proper government support for workforce development.
- The broad enforcement powers granted by the bill could create operational bottlenecks and slow freight movement if not properly managed.
- Inadequate engagement with the industry prior to the introduction of the bill means the reforms may not be workable and could stifle supply chain efficiency.
ALC Head of Government Affairs Sheena Fardell has called for further collaboration between government and industry to ensure the best outcomes are reached when passing the bill.
“The freight and logistics sector is the backbone of Australia’s economy, and these proposed security laws risk imposing unnecessary costs and inefficiencies that could have wide-reaching consequences,” Fardell says.
“While security is paramount, reforms must be practical, proportionate, and aligned with existing frameworks to ensure the seamless movement of goods.
“We urge the government to work collaboratively with industry to strike the right balance between resilience and efficiency.”
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