A proposal to hit cruise companies with a new tax is expected to add an unfair burden to the cruise industry and drive up costs for both passengers and operators, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Australasia warned.
CLIA joined with other business and shipping organizations in opposing the planned Biosecurity Imports Levy, that was originally aimed at sea freight when it was announced by the Australian Government in 2018, but which is currently flagged for cruise companies starting as soon as July.
Image: Port of Melbourne (Victoria Australia)
The Levy is due to support a more efficient and smarter biosecurity system and will be used in order to offset costs of biosecurity activities, trialing brand new technologies and increasing investment in the delivery of biosecurity services like screening passengers and cargo seaports, as the complexity and volume of trade into Australia grows.
CLIA has called on David Littleproud, Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, to rule out any additional levy on cruising. It has also sought the support of Simon Birmingham, Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment.