MARCH 2007

We have made a strong start to 2007 with the successful 2007 Forum at Seaworld on the Gold Coast. This was well attended and we hit maximum capacity for the venue. Importantly it was well attended by ALC members at the most senior levels of the industry. The Forum started with the Parliamentary Secretary of Transport and Main Roads The Hon Phil Reeves MP speaking at the industry reception on 15 February.  Bob Scheuber, CEO of QR and Chairman of ARA spoke at breakfast on the Friday, followed by appearances by Daryll Hull and a seal. Paul Little, MD of Toll set the scene for the main part of the day and was followed by Hon Mark Vaile MP, acting Prime Minister and Minister for Transport and Regional Services.  The Minister made some important announcements including

• Release of the review of the Australian Logistics Industry Strategy
• Challenge to the T&L industry to work more closely together to propose and implement industry solutions for major challenges
• Commitment of multi year funding from the Australian Government to ALC
• Commissioning ALC to develop the next 3-5 year national strategy for transport and logistics

This is a great opportunity for ALC and for the T&L industry but, while not wanting to sound unappreciative and while acknowledging the importance of a multi-year funding commitment to ALC, it is important to note that we have a commitment of funding 2006 level funding for a further four years.  This means that we have a new, major and important task, which is either seeking additional funding from industry and State Governments and or the need to cut back on the project funding for our current work program.  The ALC Executive has some tough decisions to make and the requirement for funding support from industry has never been greater if we are to maintain momentum on our current agenda, as well as tackle this new task.

The bottom line is that this is a pivotal time in development of our industry and decisions made now will inevitably have a direct impact on Australia’s economic performance and it’s social way of life.

It is a great challenge to be part of ALC at such an important time.

Hal Morris