Question addresses the impact of new IMO sulphur content regulations on the live export industry, particularly given the age of the fleet. The government expects companies to bear the financial responsibility for upgrades and is exploring options to increase onshore processing.

AnsweredQoN 2084Legislative Council
Asked
10 April 2019
Portfolio
Regional Development; Agriculture and Food; Ports; Minister Assisting the Minister for State Development, Jobs and Trade

QuestionView source ↗

I refer to the 1 January 2020 deadline for a 0.5 percent cap on sulphur content in marine fuel mandated by the International Maritime Organisation, and I ask: (a) given that the live export fleet is the oldest saltwater fleet in the world, what impact does the Minister expect the new regulatory standards will have on live export operations; (b) is the Government assisting live export companies to uphold their obligations under the new standard; (c) if yes to (b), in what way; (d) what, if any, other strategies are being proposed to ensure that these new standards are upheld; (e) is the Government encouraging a transition to onshore processing; and (f) if no to (e), why not?

AnswerView source ↗

Answered
4 June 2019
Responded by
Minister for Regional Development; Agriculture and Food; Ports; Minister Assisting the Minister for State Development, Jobs and Trade
Response time
11 days
(a-d) The new MARPOL Annex VI standards pertaining to low sulphur fuel requirements will apply to all international trading ships over the relevant tonnage thresholds. The Australian Government response to the new standards will be enforced by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. It is our expectation that all shipping companies will need to take the financial responsibility for upgrading the operation of their vessels.
(e) The Government is working with the Western Australian sheep industry to look at opportunities to increase the proportion of the sheep flock that are processed onshore.
(f) Not applicable

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