UPDATED CRUISE EXEMPTION TO STRENGTHEN SEAFARER PROTECTIONS
The Australian Government is continuing the exemption from the Coastal Trading (Revitalising Australian Shipping) Act 2012 (the Act) for eligible cruise operators, whilst providing stronger protections for seafarers.
The long-standing exemption will be extended until 31 December 2028. This will provide certainty to the cruise and tourism sectors which are important to Australia’s economy, especially regional and remote communities.
The Government expects that all vessels benefitting from this exemption will fully comply with their international legal obligations, including under the Maritime Labor Convention (MLC).
Commencing on 1 January 2027, the exemption will require that vessel owners’ policies and seafarer work agreements do not restrict the ability of seafarers to engage in
collective bargaining.
The Government intends for this to be the final exemption for cruise vessels.
Broader reforms to the Act are currently being progressed and will provide longer-term certainty for the cruise sector.
These reforms are also intended to help protect seafarers’ rights and strengthen Australia’s sovereign maritime capability.
A reporting requirement will also require eligible cruise operators to provide information to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority regarding onboard MLC complaints made by crew.
The exemption applies to eligible cruise vessels carrying passengers to and from any Australian ports, except between Victoria and Tasmania, where existing Australian general licence holding businesses already operate.
The exemption will remain in effect while the Government considers the final report of the Independent Review of the Act.
More information on the Coastal Trading Act, the review and exemptions is available at:
Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:
“The Albanese Government supports a thriving maritime industry with strong protections for its workers, which is why we have updated the Coastal Trading Act exemption for cruise ships.
“Cruise tourism is an important driver of economic growth in Australia. We want the cruise industry to keep thriving and showcasing our country’s diverse regions to both local and international visitors.
“This means ensuring a fair go for the hard-working seafarers who make cruising holidays possible for Australians, while continuing the exemption to support the cruise tourism industry and our port towns that rely on it.”