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Posted by David Sexton
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05 Oct, 2026
AN EXEMPTION from the Coastal Trading Act for the cruise industry has been extended until the end of 2028, the Australian government says.
In a statement, infrastructure and transport minister Catherine King said the exemption for “eligible cruise operators” would also providing “stronger protections for seafarers” and allow for collective bargaining.
The government said it intended for this to be the final exemption for cruise vessels, with broader reforms to the Act aimed at providing longer-term certainty for the cruise sector.
These reforms are also intended to help protect seafarers’ rights and strengthen Australia’s sovereign maritime capability.
Furthermore, 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 government stated.
The exemption is to remain in effect while the government considers the final report of the Independent Review of the Act.
“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,” Ms King said.
“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.”
Australian Cruise Association chief executive Jill Abel welcomed the decision.
“The extension is an important interim measure that provides continuity while the government progresses broader reforms intended to deliver the longer-term regulatory certainty the cruise sector needs,” Ms Abel said.
“The benefits of cruise extend well beyond our major ports. Cruise activity supports Australian jobs across a broad range of industries, generates business for ports, tourism operators, transport providers, suppliers and local businesses, and importantly disperses visitors and expenditure into regional and remote destinations around the country.”
She said the ACA looked forward to continuing to work constructively with the Australian government as the broader reforms to the Coastal Trading Act progress.
