Summary

Part of a package of five bills in relation to the Australian shipping industry, the bill provides for: a regulatory framework for coastal trading in Australia; three types of licences which authorise vessels to carry passengers or cargo between ports in Australia; the application process for licences; the decision-making process including criteria when granting a licence; the conditions and cancellation of licences; ministerial exemptions from the Act; the appointment and enforcement of legislative requirements; the review of certain decisions by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal; and the delegation of functions and powers by the minister and secretary.