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.
