Second port levy to hit Sydney

Another stevedore port tax will apply to carriers using Sydney's Port Botany terminals from next month

From July 10 truck operators will be hit with a $25.45 levy per container, plus GST, for transport movements at Patrick's Port Botany terminals.

Following on from the $21.16 'infrastructure charge' imposed by DP World Australia, the new charge is applicable to every loaded container moving into or out of Patrick's Sydney Autostrad terminal and on dock rail.

Patrick says the levy will offset increases in rent, land tax and council rates, while payments should be made within 30 days via the 1-Stop Vehicle Booking System.

Road Freight NSW has reacted angrily to the Patrick charge, claiming it's an example of "blatant cost-shifting".

"When DP World Australia imposed their tax back in April, RFNSW was extremely concerned that it was only a matter of time before other stevedores got in on the act," said RFNSW General Manager, Simon O’Hara.

"Unfortunately, our warnings have come true. Patrick blames risings terminal costs for this new unilateral charge, but surely they can look at improving their own operational efficiencies rather than cynically shifting costs on to carriers.

"We believe the tax will probably be used to off-set the costs of ongoing privatisation of the terminals.

"There is little doubt this additional tax will continue to financially impact on many smaller, family-owned trucking companies who are already suffering as a result of the DP World Australia levy and other cost pressures, like rate changes to the General Carriers Contract Determination (GCCD)."

Mr O'Hara said RF NSW had sought a meeting with Patrick and will be calling on the NSW Government to stop the new tax being imposed until consultation is undertaken with industry.

Second port levy to hit Sydney

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