The Essential Services Commission is asking for public feedback as part of its second inquiry into whether the Port of Melbourne has been operating competitively and efficiently, in accordance with the Victorian Government’s pricing order.
The inquiry will look at the five-year period from 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2026.
The pricing order sets the rules for how the port can charge for key services, including:
- berthing ships
- using shipping channels
- short term storage
- access to infrastructure such as wharves, roads and rail.
The Port of Melbourne supports international and domestic shipping services that move containerised and general cargo from Melbourne through Port Phillip Bay.
The commission reviews the port’s compliance with the pricing order every five years. In between these formal inquiries, it provides annual feedback to help guide the port and identify issues affecting port users and other stakeholders.
The commission is now seeking submissions on whether:
- the port has complied with the pricing order
- any non-compliance has been significant or sustained.
Anyone who wishes to follow the inquiry or make a submission can do so by visiting Engage Victoria. Submissions are open until 5pm 28 August 2026.
The commission will also hold a virtual public forum in late August 2026 to discuss the main issues being considered in the inquiry.
More information is available on the commission's website.
The commission will provide its final report to the Minister for Finance by 31 December 2026.
Quotes attributable to Essential Services Commission Chairperson and Commissioner Gerard Brody
“This inquiry is an important opportunity to assess whether the Port of Melbourne has been operating competitively and efficiently.”
“We want to hear from port users, industry participants and other interested stakeholders about their experiences and views on the port’s pricing practices.”
“Feedback from submissions will help inform our assessment of whether the pricing order has been followed and whether any issues require closer attention.”
Contact details:
0437 677 385