A paper covering the possibility of reopening Australian waters to international cruise shipping was “noted” during a meeting of Australia’s National Cabinet last Fri, as the key 80% double-vaccinated milestone was achieved across the nation. It’s the first mention of the “C”-word in a National Cabinet communiqu for some time,...
A paper covering the possibility of reopening Australian waters to international cruise shipping was “noted” during a meeting of Australia’s National Cabinet last Fri, as the key 80% double-vaccinated milestone was achieved across the nation.
It’s the first mention of the “C”-word in a National Cabinet communiqu for some time, but the leaders also confirmed no recommencement would be able to take place until Minister for Health Greg Hunt has revoked the Biosecurity (Human Biosecurity Emergency) (Human Coronavirus with Pandemic Potential)/(Emergency Requirements for Cruise Ships) legislative instrument.
No time frame was given for such a revocation, although unless it is renewed following the quarterly pattern of the last 20 months, the existing determination is set to expire effective from 17 Dec.
However, once the federal ban is lifted, “National Cabinet noted that states and territories will control the recommencement of cruises in each jurisdiction”.
MEANWHILE Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has reiterated the urgency of a recommencement, this morning releasing a new video highlighting the industry’s readiness for a careful resumption, as part of its ongoing Ready Set Sail campaign.
“This latest campaign targets cruise guests and local communities to show how much work has been done by cruise lines and the need for action from governments,” said CLIA Managing Director Australasia Joel Katz.
“We are encouraging our supporters to share the video and tag Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet and other state leaders,” he said.
CLIA noted the number of passengers who have sailed worldwide since ocean cruise operations resumed last year had now passed three million, with more than 50 countries once again welcoming cruise vessels.
With more than 80% of the global passenger cruise ship fleet set to be operational by next month, Katz said this “remarkable achievement…shows the effectiveness of the cruise industry’s new health protocols introduced in response to the global pandemic”.
However Katz said although CLIA has made enormous progress in other countries, govts in Australia are still yet to agree on plans for a local revival.
“International cruise operations are still suspended and tens of thousands of jobs are in doubt, while we have no clear indication from governments on a path to revival,” he said.
The video is now live at cruiseweekly.com.au/videos.
