A “CRITICAL action” in supporting development of a port strategy is how the Victorian government has described plans for its own review into coastal shipping.

In a statement released by Freight Victoria, it was announced the Victorian ports strategy would investigate the efficiency of Victoria’s ports and links to the broader transport and distribution networks.

“As part of the review of coastal shipping, the government is seeking submissions from industry and the community to feed into development of strategic responses that will be included in the upcoming port strategy,” the government statement read.

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“The government will establish a stakeholder reference group to support development of a new port strategy, made up of industry stakeholders.”

In particular, the coastal shipping review is to examine the regional economic growth created by Victorian coastal shipping and identify ways to maximise the employment of Victorian seafaring labour.

The government is calling for industry and community submissions which addressed to Freight Victoria. Shipping Australia chief executive Rod Nairn said SAL would make a submission and get involved in the process.