MARCH 2007

Chairman’s Update

It is almost frightening to know that we are nearly into the end of the first quarter of this important year which has been dubbed ALC’s “coming of age".  The ALC has hit some important milestones in 2006 and has been recognised as an organisation that is getting things done. There are now even greater needs for practical, concrete results for our industry in 2007.

The Retail Code of Conduct now needs implementation and continued commitment; the infrastructure investment commitment around Australia is now at record levels but needs aligning and prioritising from industry’s perspective; the demands of retention, attraction and development of staff to meet the soaring people needs of the T&L industry needs ongoing attention, just to name a few. Significantly, research commissioned by ALC has now demonstrated that the Transport & Logistics industry contributes in the vicinity of 15% GDP, instead of the previous and often quoted figure of 9%.  Also, with the development of a new National Logistics Strategy for the next three to five years now an essential task for ALC to lead ALC now needs to immediately further sharpen focus and prioritise our resources.  We have been given a base at 2006 levels for the next 4 years and we need to build on this with your support.  Please ensure that you maximise you financial support of ALC in this important year.

In closing I leave the thought that has been enunciated to me over the last two weeks by many in the financial sector, which is, that the people of our generation who have made significant bucks have done it through IT. Whereas the next generation will do it through understanding the environment and its impact on business life.  Food for thought!!! 

Best regards

Ivan Backman