FTA / APSA Weekly Report 2026/20 - sponsored by Fremantle Ports

Wednesday, May 20, 2026

FTA / APSA WEEKLY REPORT 2026/20
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JOIN THE ALLIANCE
SPONSOR OF THE WEEK


READ MORE HERE

OUR EXPANDING ALLIANCE


Our network continues to grow, with new members and sponsors bringing valuable expertise and support to the FTAa and APSA community.

FTA / APSA - OUT & ABOUT

Melbourne Catch Ups

Sal Milici said it was great catching up with Chandima Gunawardana of CEVA Logistics to discuss the rapidly evolving freight environment and the resilience of the supply chain sector.

A lot of the conversation centred around the ongoing Middle East conflict, disruption to global shipping and air freight networks, fuel price pressures and the growing impact of emergency surcharges flowing through international trade.

Despite the challenges, it continues to be impressive to see the agility of members adapting in real time to keep cargo moving and supply chains functioning.

Always valuable to exchange perspectives with members navigating these issues on the front line every day.

In the lead up to last week's CPD events in Melbourne Sal Milici and Paul Zalai caught up with valued partners Sarah Browne (pictured)and Caralene Moloney (joining live via satellite) from Port of Melbourne to discuss ongoing engagement around the Port Capacity Expansion Program and planning considerations surrounding a potential future fourth container terminal.


Paul Zalai said it was great catching up with Carl Brown from MGF Logistics at the Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) CPD Border Compliance Program event in Melbourne. A special thanks to Carl for agreeing to a major sponsorship of the Australia & New Zealand Shipping & Logistics Conference showcasing their wholesale services to forwarders in our region.

Many thanks to Alice Zhang, Product Manager at Clear.ai for attending the Melbourne CPD events and caching up with our members, and also for their GOLD sponsorship at the Australia & New Zealand Shipping & Logistics Conference




Sal Milici, General Manager Trade Policy and Operations said it was great to have Paul Zalai in town for the Melbourne CPD event  -  after two days of interaction with members, speakers and sponsors, not to mention all the lead up preparations, it was a great way to thank the Melbourne crew of Lucy Robinson - Head of  Border, Biosecurity & Logistics (2nd from left and Jade Pearce, Head of Training & Events (2nd from right) for all their hard work

FTA / APSA - TRAINING

Are you organised for your Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training?

FTA offers online training for the customs broker licencing period 1 April to 31 March each year. The cost of an online training package is $150 (excl. gst) for member organisations bulk discounts are available on a sliding scale. 


Licensed customs brokers not employed by a corporate FTA member, can purchase an Individual Membership which includes online CPD training for the cost of only $300 (excl. gst) per customs broker licensing period.

Please email Caroline at czalai@FTAlliance.com.au if you wish to organise a package.
MYFTACPD TRAINING PLATFORM

Continuing Professional Development Period 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027

When completing topics online via our MYFTACPD training platform, you must only complete topics in your "ACTIVE" library to receive the CPD Points for the period. You can review old courses for reference or as a refresher in your "COMPLETED" library, however any assessments completed will NOT count towards CPD Attainment. This approach is to ensure you remain up to date with current topics when completing your professional development.
 
2026-2027 CPD BORDER COMPLIANCE PROGRAMS 


2026/27 FTA QLD CPD Border Compliance Program - Wednesday 27 May 2026 


Discount available for bulk registrations for 6 or more - contact czalai@ftalliance.com.au
FTA CPD events in Melbourne

Many thanks to the high numbers of Licenced Customs Brokers who turned out last Friday & Saturday for the FTA CPD  events in Melbourne at Hyatt Place Melbourne Essendon Fields - it was a great reminder of how valuable it is to step away from the day-to-day and connect with others across the industry.
One delegate described the days as "It was fantastic catching up with fellow brokers, meeting new people within the industry, and hearing different perspectives and insights throughout the day. The sessions were genuinely informative and highlighted just how quickly our industry continues to evolve.", and of course out thanks again to all the speakers and sponosrs

FTA / APSA - IN THE MEDIA

A full list of our extensive ongoing media coverage is available HERE
UPCOMING WEBINARS

Understanding the Australia–EU FTA: What Customs Brokers and Forwarders Need to Know

Wednesday 3 June 2026 - 1200 AEST


Join us for a webinar presented by Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), providing a practical overview of the goods market access outcomes under AEUFTA — including tariff elimination, tariff rate quotas and what these changes mean in real terms for trade with the European Union.

FTA/APSA Global Shipping Insights

Thursday 4 June  2026 - 1200 AEST

Join us as we break down the latest FTA/APSA Shipping Report - May 2026

Australian Sanctions Laws – Compliance, Risk and Resilience

Wednesday 10 June 2026 - 1200 AEST


Join us for an exclusive webinar presented by the Australian Sanctions Office (ASO), providing a practical overview of Australia's sanctions framework and its direct impact on customs brokers, freight forwarders and logistics service providers operating at the frontline of international trade.

FTA / APSA - UPCOMING EVENTS

2026 AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND SHIPPING & LOGISTICS CONFERENCE

Registrations now open

Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA), the Australian Peak Shippers Association (APSA) and the New Zealand Cargo Owners Council (NZCOC) are delighted to advise that registrations are now open for the inaugural 2026 Australia & New Zealand Shipping & Logistics Conference.

This week we showcase GOLD SPONSOR - The Compliant Group - read more

Are you interested in sponsoring this event?
Please speak with Paul Zalai on 0408 280 123 or pzalai@ftalliance.com.au

2026 CARE-FACTOR INDUSTRY CHARITY TRADE BALL 

Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA), The Compliant Group, Orange Lime Consulting and Next Leap Training Solutions are delighted to host the 2026 Care-Factor Industry Charity Trade Ball at the Hyatt Regency, Sydney on Friday 31st July 2026.

We are delighted to announce our 2026 charity beneficiary is the
Reboot Mindset Academy


For further details of the event and sponsorship opportunities please click HERE
T
24 - 26 May 2026 : Australian Steel Association - 2026 Conference 
27 May 2026 : 2026/27 FTA QLD CPD Border Compliance Program - Wednesday 27 May 2026 
3 June 2026 : WEBINAR - Understanding the Australia–EU FTA: What Customs Brokers and Forwarders Need to Know 
4 June 2026 : Webinar - FTA/APSA Global Shipping Insights
10 June 2026 : WEBINAR - Australian Sanctions Laws – Compliance, Risk and Resilience 
2 July 2026 : Webinar - FTA/APSA Global Shipping Insights 
31 July 2026 : Care-Factor (Charity Trade ball) Christmas in July
6 August 2026 : Webinar - FTA/APSA Global Shipping Insights
27-28 August 2026 : 2026 Australia & New Zealand Shipping & Logistics Conference

Notices:

23 July 2025 : 2026/27 CPD- Early Bird Registration- Now Open! - read more

Taskforce for zero deaths: Committee for the Elimination of Prostate Cancer launched at Parliament House

A major new national effort to eliminate deaths from prostate cancer was launched at Parliament House in Canberra last week, bringing together leaders from government, health, and the community.

The launch will feature a striking awareness truck, positioned in front of Parliament House, carrying the message: "One small test for man, one giant leap for mankind."

Prostate cancer affects nearly 1 in 5 Australian men in their lifetime. Each year, nearly 29,000 men are diagnosed and almost 4,000 lose their lives. The Committee for the Elimination of Prostate Cancer will work to align national efforts 

across early detection, research, and treatment—ensuring all Australian men have a fair chance of survival, regardless of where they live. READ MORE (many thanks to Barry Robertson from J&J Robertson & Sons Transport for sharing this information)

LOGISTICS

OneStop and Goldlead Banksmeadow Depot Partner to Deliver Smarter, Faster Port Operations at Port Botany

OneStop has partnered with Goldlead Banksmeadow Depot to deploy OneStop's Modal platform and Vehicle Booking System (VBS) at its Port Botany facility in New South Wales. The system goes live on Monday, 1 June 2026, marking a step forward in the digital transformation of empty container park operations on Australia's eastern seaboard.

 

The rollout reflects a wider shift across the industry, as empty container parks increasingly look to replace fragmented, 

manual workflows with smarter, more connected systems that scale with demand. READ MORE

TasPorts funds business partners

TASPORTS has entered the second year of its Industry Support program with grants totalling almost $100,000 towards initiatives that support Tasmanian industries. The statewide program targets skills development and strengthens workforce capacity in areas of greatest need, with further grants currently under consideration 

 

TasPorts interim CEO Allan Gray said as operator of Tasmania's multi-port network, TasPorts can play a pivotal role in connecting business and supporting industry growth. ?

 

"In consultation with industry, we're helping to bridge the gaps through education, training, research, development and collaboration.

 

"These partnerships strengthen workforce capability across sectors, promoting job readiness and developing leaders, while working to attract investment and trade opportunities for our exporters."? READ MORE (story credit DCN)

TT Talk - May 2026

In the May issue of TT Talk we look at;

  • China's revised Maritime Code

  • 2026 Atlantic Hurricane season

  • When General Average claims fail
    READ MORE

ATA hails fuel tax credit retention as a Budget win for transport

The Australian Trucking Association has thrown its support behind the Federal Government's Budget decision to retain a fuel tax credit system for diesel fuel on heavy vehicles over 4.5 tonne.

The Fuel Tax Act 2006, which came into play on July 1, 2006, provides transport operators with the opportunity to claim tax credits for diesel fuel used in the freight task, providing they are able to meet one of four environmental criteria. READ MORE (story credit ATN magazine)

Port Authority of NSW - Port Matters -  Autumn 2026

In this issue, we are pleased to present our Strategy 2030 where we set the framework to further strengthen our organisation, guide the development of annual strategic initiatives and deliver benefits for NSW. Strategy 2030 provides a roadmap to maximise Port Authority's performance for our people, shareholders and stakeholders - including our customers and the people of NSW.
READ MORE

Notices:

19.5.2026 : DP WORLD - PORT BOTANY Protected Industrial Action (Certis Security) UPDATE 4 - .read more
18.5.2026 : Online Dangerous Goods Compliance Courses - Register Now! -  read more
16.5.2026 : LAUNCH - DRAFT CONFERENCE PROGRAM - 2026 Australia & New Zealand Shipping & Logistics Conference - read more
15.5.2026 : DP WORLD - PORT BOTANY Protected Industrial Action (Certis Security) Update 3: Monday 18 May through to Wednesday 20 May 2026 - read more
15..5.2026 : OneStop and Goldlead Banksmeadow Depot Partner to Deliver Smarter, Faster Port Operations at Port Botany - read more
14.5.2026 : DP WORLD - PORT BOTANY Protected Industrial Action (Certis Security) Update 2: Monday 18 May & Tuesday 19 May 2026 - .read more
14.5.2026 : Container Trade Statistics Data March 2026 - .read more
13.5.2026 : REVISION OF CHINA"S MARITIME CODE - Governing Law and Shipper Liability Risks - read more
13.5.2026 : FEDERAL BUDGET 2026 - 27 Impacts for International trade - read more
13.5.2026 : DP WORLD - PORT BOTANY: Protected Industrial Action (Certis Security) - Friday 15 May 2026 - read more
 

SEA FREIGHT

PART X Competition & Consumer Act

The Australian Peak Shippers Association (APSA) is the designated peak shipper body granted status by the Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport under Part X of the Consumer & Competition Act to represent the interests of Australian shippers generally in relation to liner cargo shipping services. The following notice has been received and is available to members' reference.


19.5.2026 : Part X: OUTCOME: Application for the provisional registration of the MOU for China - Australia Express Service (ACX) - Inwards and Outwards Agreements

 

MSC in major Oceania network revision

MEDITERRANEAN Shipping Company has today confirmed market rumours circulating for over a week, announcing a major overhaul of its Oceania region services effective immediately.

 

The new port order will be Sydney – Melbourne – Brisbane – Hong Kong – Yantian – Xiamen – Shanghai – Ningbo – Sydney, with MSC saying Sydney customers will get access to Hong Kong and China with faster transits than before. READ MORE (story credit DCN)

Notices:

19.5.2026 : International Shipping Line Financial Data Update - read more

AIR FREIGHT

American Airlines Cargo connects to CargoWise for efficient eBookings  

WiseTech Global (ASX:WTC) has announced that American Airlines Cargo, has joined the CargoWise Carrier Connectivity Program. The direct data integration enables freight forwarders to efficiently plan, book, confirm and manage shipments with American Airlines Cargo in real-time from within CargoWise, the industry's leading logistics execution platform.  

American Airlines Cargo's new direct data connection with CargoWise enables freight forwarders to access American Airlines' schedules, rates, capacity and bookings as well as the ability to easily change digital bookings, all without leaving CargoWise READ MORE

GSSA giant World Freight Company sold for $1.2bn

GSSA giant World Freight Company (WFC), which owns some of the biggest names in the industry, has been sold in a deal worth a reported $1.2bn. PAI Partners (PAI) and BPEA Private Equity Fund VI (EQT) yesterday announced that the company had been sold to Brookfield Asset Management.

 

WFC was formed in 2004 and is one of the world's largest GSSA groups, owning brands such as Air Logistics Group, ATC, Kales, Wexco and HAE. In total, the group lists around 25 brands on its website. In total, WFC companies serve more than 300 airlines on 3,500 trade lanes and over 16,000 freight forwarders across more than 80 countries and key international trade routes. READ MORE (story credit Air Cargo News)


Qantas Freight Operations

Please refer the Qantas Freight website for updates on operational matters. 

BIOSECURITY

Please click  HERE   the DAFF Biosecurity Repor  t -  sponsored by Port of Newcastle

TRADE

AUSTRADE - Agribusiness & Food News

In the latest issue from Austrade they look at;

  • 64th Australian Export Awards

  • Middle East supply chain updates

  • How Australian red meat industry is adapting to Middle East disruptions

  • New agrifood connections in Vietnam and Cambodia
    READ MORE

Finance Report

Please see the Weekly Market Summary courtesy of  Xe

 

READ MORE - LOGIN REQUIRED

LIVE exchange rate conversion


FTA have added the Xe exchange rate widget to the right sidebar on our FTAlliance.com.au home page, so members can easily convert using live rates provided by our affiliate partner in Xe.

It also has a link to the Xe/FTA landing page for members to create a free account with Xe.
Xe May Global Currency Outlook

In the May Partnerships Newsletter we look at

  • Global currency markets - key things to watch

  • Why it matters

  • Your control over global payments
    READ MORE (member log in required)

Trade Data Updates Week Ending 19th May 2026

 

National ports, the Australian Bureau of statistics and data from other sources  

LOGIN REQUIRED

Notices:

19.5.2026 : Xe Morning Update - Your daily market wrap - read more
18.5.2026 : Xe Morning Update - Your daily market wrap - read more
16.5.2026 : Xe Partnerships Newsletter May 2026  - read more
14.5.2026 : Xe Morning Update - Your daily market wrap - read more

Anti-Dumping Notices Data Updates Week Ending 19th May 2026

 

FTA has compiled a list of Anti-Dumping Notices from the Department of Industry, Science and Resources 


LOGIN REQUIRED

BORDER

14kg of cocaine hidden in fruit pulp intercepted in Melbourne

The AFP and Australian Border Force (ABF) are seeking public assistance following the seizure of 14kg of cocaine concealed within a consignment of two tonnes of fruit pulp at Melbourne Airport.  

 

The international air cargo shipment arrived into Melbourne on 7 May, 2026. ABF officers conducted an initial x-ray examination of the produce as a result of the shipment being identified as high- risk, which indicated an anomaly in a number of boxes in the consignment.
READ MORE (story credit ABF newsroom)

Notices:

15.5.2026 : AFP / ABF - 14kg of cocaine hidden in fruit pulp intercepted in Melbourne - read more
14.5.2026 : ABF / ICS SYSTEM ISSUES - read more
13.5.2026 : AFP - Syndicate member jailed over failed plot to import cocaine inside printers - read more
13.5.2026 : ICS Messaging Delays - RESOLVED  - read more
13.5.2026 : ABF TC Gazette 26/17 - read more

WEBINARS & RECORDINGS

Stay at the cutting edge through participation in live webinars and access to recordings – all are FREE & EXCLUSIVE to Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) and the Australian Peak Shippers Association (APSA) members.     LOGIN REQUIRED


12.5.2026 : Webinars & CPD Recordings - read more

Operational Support
For the timeliest response from our team, FTA / APSA members are reminded to send requests for operational support to support@FTAlliance.com.au

Training, Finance & Events Enquiries
For the timeliest response from our team, FTA / APSA members are reminded to send training, finance, events and general administration enquiries to Training@FTAlliance.com.au


 
Member Communications
 

To select your communication preferences please click on "Update Subscription Preferences" at the bottom of any FTA notice -  READ MORE

SPONSORS

FTA and APSA are proud to connect members with the following sponsors as leading suppliers of services to the freight and trade sectors.

Sponsorship prospectus is available HERE

 
 


 












 








 
 






  
















 

 
 
 


 
 



















 

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