Following engagement with Transport for NSW executives on Tuesday 24 August 2021, Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) and Australian Peak Shippers Association (APSA) yesterday made representation via the offices of NSW Ministers Constance (Transport and Roads) and Toole (Regional Transport and Roads) advocating for modification of existing Health Orders, or at minimum, additional time allow industry to adapt to significant operational changes (especially noting the new found demand for limited rapid antigen testing (RAT) services).
Assurances were given that both Ministers would be made aware of concerns raised and FT/APSA would be kept up to date with developments (if any). In parallel, FTA / APSA had positive engagement with executives from NSW Ports however no immediate viable support measures have been identified.
The bottom line is that while FTA, APSA and the Container Transport Alliance Australia (CTAA) will continue advocacy with port and government representatives, members must now finalise plans in terms of compliance with the Health Orders as they currently stand with an implementation date of Monday 30 August 2021.
While the Authorised Worker permit and vaccine requirements is currently only mandated in NSW Local Government Areas (LGAs), members nationally should take note of employment implications should similar measures be adopted in other states and territories.
We encourage all FTA, APSA and CTAA members to join us at a FREE webinar at 1.30PM AEST today to hear from Alexander Millman (Senior Associate - Workplace Relations, Employment and Safety) and Harold Downes (Partner - Workplace Relations, Employment and Safety) Mills Oakley.
This important interactive session will focus on legal obligations imposed on businesses and individuals in order to comply with the current Health Order.
To register, please click HERE
NOTE: the webinar will be recorded and shared with all registered participants Paul Zalai - Director FTA | Secretariat APSA | Director GSF