ACCC chairman Rod Sims said that if container numbers continue to increase at current rates, there is a risk that capacity problems, similar to those observed in Sydney, could emerge in Melbourne.
The ACCC’s findings echo sentiments expressed by shipping line ANL which says there is a “crisis in port capacity” in Victoria.
ANL managing director John Lines said that while planning for the longer-term capacity in Melbourne was welcomed, there was a crisis in port capacity right now.
“Unlike the ports of Sydney and Brisbane, which have new facilities under construction, Melbourne has yet to even announce any new short-term capacity increase or development. Let’s be very clear. In our view Swanson Dock is full,” he said.
The ACCC has encouraged the invitation of a third stevedore to provide increased competition.
“Opportunities for new entry into Australian stevedoring are rare – this makes them all the more important when they do arise. We would welcome the Victorian government taking advantage of the need for new investment by introducing a third competitor into the port of Melbourne,” Mr Simes said.
The port of Hastings is seen as a long-term alternative to Melbourne.