The Australian competition watchdog has initiated Federal Court proceedings against Tasmania’s state-owned ports operator, alleging it tried to shut a new pilotage business out of the market in order to protect its near monopoly on the island.
The breaches alleged by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) could each carry a fine in excess of AU$10 million (US$6.9 million), but Tasmanian Ports Corporation (TasPorts) has strenuously denied the allegations and stated it will vigorously defend the matter.
TasPorts owns and/or operates all of the state’s ports but one, Port Latta, in northern Tasmania.
The ACCC claims TasPorts tried to stop a new business, West Australian-based Engage Marine, from edging in on pilotage services.
“In short, our case is that TasPorts sought to maintain its monopoly in towage and pilotage in Tasmania, resulting in higher prices and lower-quality services,” ACCC chairman Rod Sims said.
