The state’s peak business group is calling on the Federal Government to stop the NSW ports issue from further damaging the economy.

Ports in Sydney and around the country remain severely limited amid an ongoing industrial dispute between stevedore company DP World and the Maritime Union of Australia.

Business NSW CEO Daniel Hunter said ports and associated logistics are absolutely critical to our economy and productivity.

“The Botany dispute is further fuelling domestic inflation at a time when supply chains were just starting to recover,” Mr Hunter said.

“Following on from the catastrophic Covid container crisis, this dispute has been going on for far too long and is highly damaging to businesses and families alike.

“We call on the Federal Government to use the available provisions in the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Secure Jobs, Better Pay) Act 2022 to arbitrate a lasting resolution as soon as possible.

“Both the Federal and NSW governments should - in line with the recommendations made by the Productivity Commission - redouble focus on the growth of efficient ports and logistics. This is a matter of national importance.”

About Business NSW

Formerly the NSW Business Chamber, Business NSW is the peak policy and advocacy body which has been representing businesses in NSW since 1826. We represent almost 50,000 businesses.