Shipper groups in Australia will call for the abolition of ocean carrier anti-trust immunity and tighter controls on port fees in submissions to a government inquiry into productivity, reports London's S&P Global.

The Freight & Trade Alliance and the Australian Peak Shippers Association said both measures are central to improving competitiveness and resilience in the freight supply chain. The inquiry is examining productivity across the maritime and logistics sectors.

Paul Zalai, director of the Freight & Trade Alliance, said current protections allow foreign-owned shipping lines to dominate pricing and service levels, raising costs and weakening supply chain resilience. He added that a mandatory code on port-related fees is needed.

Mr Zalai argued that stevedores and container parks impose uncontestable landside fees directly on road and rail operators, bypassing normal commercial negotiations. He said charges should instead be levied on shipping lines, which could then decide how to recover costs.

The two associations represent more than 550 businesses and trade bodies. They were invited to submit evidence by a Senate select committee set up before Christmas. Filings are due by February 20, with a report expected by September 30.

The Australian Senate said freight disruptions continue to destabilise supply chains, causing congestion, delays and higher costs. The committee will consider whether harmonized regulations and fit-for-purpose infrastructure could strengthen resilience and support productivity growth.