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ACCC Flags Record Port Fees, Calls for Government Action

The ACCC says government intervention is likely needed to fix market failures pushing up supply-chain costs.

Overview

  • The regulator’s annual monitoring found real revenue per container hit a record $423.11 in 2024/25, up $21.93 on the year and $68.88 since 2019/20.
  • Industry profit margins climbed to a historical 34.8% in 2024/25, with total profits reaching $808.6 million despite stable costs, stable productivity and spare capacity.
  • Landside fees charged to trucking operators generated 49.5% of revenue, or $1.15 billion, and the ACCC warns these unavoidable costs are passed through to importers, exporters and households.
  • The watchdog says similar charges across terminals and limited ability for customers to switch stevedores weaken competitive pressure and point to apparent market failures.
  • Operators responded to the findings, with Patrick defending its service quality, Hutchison backing evidence-based reforms, and DP World approached for comment.