Harbour tug crew lockout may affect some upcoming shipments

As a result of ongoing industrial action during a protracted negotiation of the enterprise agreement between maritime unions and Svitzer – a Danish owned operator of tug boats in Australia – Svitzer has announced an indefinite lock-out of all their crews from 12.00 pm this Friday.  By doing this, it has been reported that Svitzer is seeking a ruling from the Fair Work Commission (scheduled today) to ban any further strike action on the basis that it would cause significant damage to the Australian economy.

Clarke Global will keep our clients updated of developments and any reported delays that will have a flow-on impact including vessel bunching and yard congestions.  We will do our utmost best to work closely with the shipping lines, local carriers and container terminals to minimise any impact, but please note that Clarke Global will not be held liable for any potential detention or penalties incurred by the Terminal of Shipping Lines.

If you have any questions in relation to the above, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at Clarke Global on (03) 9854 3000 or enquiry@clarkeglobal.com.au