Port of Newcastle, like many organisations, is taking a precautionary approach to help manage COVID-19 risks in the community. Our focus is on ensuring the port continues to operate smoothly for our customers whilst we work with government agencies and industry partners to implement preventative measures that will keep our people and our community safe.
Operations continue at Port of Newcastle
As an international trade gateway for cargo worth around $25 billion to the New South Wales economy, the port's resilience and business continuity is critical to many local, state and national employers that need access to international markets. This activity supports over 9,000 jobs in our region alone. We continue to work with our customers, supply chain partners and all agencies involved in the movement of vessels, crew and cargo through the port to ensure operations continue.
While there is yet to be a significant disruption to vessel movements and operations, Port of Newcastle continues to work behind-the-scenes to assess and manage potential risks relating to COVID-19.
Updated ABF requirements for commercial vessels
Australian Border Force has extended the 14-day mandatory self-isolation to all persons entering Australia, including crew members on commercial vessels regardless of last port of call. These measures further enhance the existing precautionary measures in place whilst still enabling trade and vessel movements to continue.
We note the transit times from ports in key markets such as Japan, China and Korea are typically more than 14 days. For full details on the latest restrictions please refer to the ABF.
Protecting our people
While no one at Port of Newcastle has yet been identified as having contracted COVID-19, we are taking a precautionary approach that puts people first. In mid-March, most of our office-based employees transitioned to remote working arrangements, making full use of the modern technology already available. This move was made in order to limit unnecessary face-to-face contact. We have also made changes to processes and procedures used by our frontline operational employees to minimise interactions, increase and enhance cleaning and disinfecting processes and wear additional PPE as a precaution, which will help reduce risks to themselves, their families and the wider community.
For health information on COVID-19, visit the Department of Health website. For information relating to ports, maritime or trade, Ports Australia has also collated a list of up-to-date government resources here.
Please do not hesitate to contact the port with any questions or concerns. We will keep you updated.
Craig Carmody
CEO
Port of Newcastle