Austin International Trade Services

	Newsletter June 2009

	Peak Period Pricing Set to Increase Transport Costs at Port Botany

	As part of the New South Wales Government’s port reform initiatives resulting from the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) Review of the Interface between the Land Transport Industries and the Stevedores at Port Botany, Sydney Ports Corporation are set to introduce a new “Peak Period Pricing” (PPP) regime at Port Botany, which will see a significant increase in the cost of transport to and from the Port.

	Through much controversy, Sydney Ports Corporation announced last week the proposed cost of the PPP which will be applied per vehicle, for the receipt of delivery of containers at the Port. The proposed cost per vehicle, as announced, is: $160 in 'peak' periods - 0500 to 1300 Monday to Friday $80 in 'shoulder' periods - 1300 to 2100 Monday to Friday $0 per truck in 'off-peak' periods - 2100 to 0500 Monday to Friday $20 REBATE per truck on weekends Notwithstanding the PPP will only be applied in peak periods, the associated transport costs through “off-peak” periods are also likely to increase significantly, due to increased operating / labour costs and the overnight staging of containers by transport providers

	Additional concerns in relation to the PPP have been raised by the Customs Brokers & Forwarders Council of Australia (CBFCA) and other peak industry associations, and an opportunity exists for other affected parties to provide feedback on the PPP to Sydney Ports Corporation via email at landsideimprovement@sydneyports.com.au

	Pending the outcome of the remaining consultative phases, the PPP is scheduled for implementation in late 2009 and throughout the interim period, we will continue to keep you updated with further developments as they come to hand.

	Further information in relation to the PPP and other reform initiatives can also be obtained from Sydney Ports Corporation at http://www.sydneyports.com.au/corporation/news/featured_news/general_news/new_peak_period_pricing_and_performance_management_framework

	If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us at anytime.
	This newsletter is not intended to, and does not, cover all aspects of the topics discussed. Professional advice should be sought before any action on these topics is taken.